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Senior Scientist, Plant Biology
NewLeaf Symbiotics
Posted on Saturday, September 30, 2023
Senior Scientist, Plant Biology
Summary
NewLeaf Symbiotics is seeking a motivated Plant Biology Senior Scientist to conduct research aimed at developing plant-associated bacteria as drop-in solutions for agriculture. The successful candidate will lead research efforts and drive thinking and innovation in the plant biology group and will contribute to strategy in R&D and the company.
Supervision and Mentoring Required
- Ability to supervise research assistants/associates.
- Cultivate research staff through scientific mentorship.
Expectation of Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Design and conduct greenhouse/growth chamber-based research in plant biology and plant-microbe interactions both independently and in collaboration with others.
- Design experiments to test hypotheses in the laboratory/greenhouse/field to support our product pipelines.
- Prepare and communicate protocols, reports, and analyses regularly both internally and externally.
- Remain current in literature in discipline and apply findings to advance company goals.
- Assist with other related lab and greenhouse projects as needed to help NewLeaf Symbiotics meet its R&D objectives.
- Ability and desire to work independently as well as in a collaborative and cross functional team-environment (molecular biology, field biology, product development, data sciences).
- Proficient at multitasking and prioritization of assignments in a fluid research environment. Proactively identify problems and propose/support solutions.
Minimum Qualification (Education and Experience)
- Educational requirements are a Ph.D. with 2+ years of academic and/or industrial experience in one or more areas related to plant biology/physiology, microbiology, bacterial genetics, plant-microbe interactions or microbial ecology.
- Proficiency in plant biology techniques including growth promotion assays using biologicals in growth chamber/greenhouse settings, and ability to troubleshoot assays to optimize performance.
- Nutrient Use Efficiency experience an advantage.
- Advanced statistical analysis skills an advantage.
- Greenhouse gas measurement/analysis experience an advantage.
- Highly motivated, detail-oriented individual with excellent problem solving, oral, and written communication skills.
Physical Demands
- Ability to work in growth chamber and greenhouse settings with conditions that vary seasonally and participate in occasional field sampling trips.