Plant Research Scientist

Company Overview:

Insignum AgTech develops new crop traits out of plant DNA that enable plants to turn color when potential stresses appear, such as disease, insect pests, or low fertility. Utilizing plants' natural pigments, our technology helps farmers optimize crop production by using in-season management strategies exactly when, precisely where, and only if necessary. Our novel, cis-genic, gene edited traits will make a real-world impact on the way crops are grown. Future products include traits that use other natural colors, like red or blue, to signal for other stresses in multiple crop species. These solutions are simple to adopt, easy to see, and ready to make a scalable impact. We are agricultural scientists, with farming backgrounds, fueled by a passion for plant science and biotechnology. Come help us build the future of farming.

Position Overview:

We are seeking highly motivated and talented Plant Molecular Biologist Research Scientist to join our Plant Biotechnology Research team. This individual will be responsible for gene editing, molecular biology, plant genotyping, among other responsibilities. Research will be conducted on multiple crop species, including maize, canola, and soy. The successful candidate must demonstrate flexibility in addressing diverse challenges within a rapidly evolving organization. They will contribute to a culture of believing in the possible, unafraid of failure in the pursuit of excellence. The successful candidate must perform as an individual contributor to collaborate and share responsibility as a team. At Insignum, ownership has no boundaries. Whether it's fieldwork or strategic planning, we step up, learn quickly, and grow through every challenge.  Stay curious, learn fast, adapt faster, and take on what's next. We set ambitious goals – occasional overtime may be required to meet project milestones.

Key Responsibilities:

·      Design and conduct molecular biology plant gene editing experiments, including cloning, vector design and construction.

·      Perform genomic sequencing experiments and analysis.

·      Transform plants and handle plant tissue cultures.

·      Communicate results to internal and external stakeholders.

·      Occasionally, may be required to work outdoors to analyze plant phenotypes or participate in field experiments.

·      Supervise junior staff members, such as technicians and interns.

·      Write manuscripts for peer-review, such as journal articles or patent applications, and contribute to grant applications.

·      Work with team members for your and their continuous improvement.

·      Maintain a safe work environment for yourself and others.

At Insignum's early stage, every employee handles varied roles and responsibilities. These responsibilities are not all-inclusive and will change over time. The team comes together to accomplish our goals.

Key Qualifications:

·      Ph.D. in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Plant Sciences, Microbiology, or similar field.

·      Demonstrated experience with plant gene editing.

·      Experience with
in-silico
software tools, such as Geneious or SnapGene, e.g.

·      Strength in delivering molecular biological results, both DNA and gene expression.

·      Experience with plant transformation, tissue culture and sterile technique.

·      Self-motivation and ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a lab setting.

·      Strong organizational, interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.

·      Ability to work in a diverse team of scientists and associates.

·      Must be legally authorized to work in the US at the time of application.

Compensation:

·     
Salary dependent on skills and experience

·     Equity in the company

·     Healthcare reimbursement

·     Paid time off and sick leave

Equal Opportunity: At Insignum, we value bringing diverse thinkers and individuals to our team. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, marital status, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.