Assistant Scientist - Cell Biology

Ball Horticultural Company has an exciting opportunity for a Research Assistant – Plant Transformation & Cell Biology, based in company’s headquarter, West Chicago IL. The Cell Biology Assistant Scientist will play a critical role in supporting the development of new bioengineering and cell biology systems that will help Ball Helix Central Research lab to support various product concepts according to Ball Horticultural operational and safety requirements. Important aspects of this role include attention to detail, excellent organization skills, flexibility, ability to work independently as well as thrive in an efficient, highly interactive, goal-oriented team environment. 

Responsibilities and Duties

• Support the cell biology and bioengineering pipelines by developing and optimizing methods, testing and validating novel technologies, and continuously improving the overall process to increase scale and efficiency.
• Work with Scientists and Research Associates to execute experiments, conduct analyses, and record data.
• Initiate and maintain in vitro plant cultures in a high throughput setting.
• Maintain a clean working environment for plant tissue culture experiments.
• Maintain detailed and organized records of work, project data and other information as needed.
• Perform laboratory duties to maintain the continuous operation of a high-throughput cell biology laboratory.
• Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
• Complete other duties needed to help drive to our Vision, fulfill our Mission, and abide by our Organization’s Values.

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, Plant Science, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology or related field of study required. 3 years of relevant experience preferred.
• Experience with monocot and/or dicot plant tissue culture and/or plant transformation preferred but not required
• Experience with aseptic techniques in laminar flow and bio-containment hoods preferred but not required
• Understanding of microbiology and molecular biology principles preferred but not required 
• The position requires demonstrated proficiency in data capture (preferably in a Laboratory Information Management System), word processing, and PowerPoint 
• Proven ability to handle multiple assignments and easy transitioning to new assignments in a rapidly changing work environment
• Willingness to support a high-quality laboratory environment by maintaining shared space and laboratory consumables
• Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences
• Capable of proactively identifying problem research areas, troubleshooting, and finding solutions
• Strong organizational skills with a proven ability to maintain complete, accurate and timely records of experimental data and procedures
• Ability to function both independently and as a respectful team member

Hourly Pay Range: $23 - $30

Physical Requirements

• Lift/Carry 50 Lbs. 5% of the day
• Pushing/Pulling 50 Lbs. 10% of the day
• Sitting/Standing 80% of the day
• Kneeling/Bending 5% of the day
• Reaching 5% of the day
• Utilizing Hands/Fingers 80% of the day
• Environmental Condition 80-90°F and high humidity 10% of the day  

Our promise to you

We create excitement in the world of flowers and are the first choice for service. We deliver all the best and nothing else! To you, we deliver a work environment and a culture where building long-lasting relationships internally and externally is important. We believe that good communication, sharing ideas and collaborating on projects will set us up for success. We keep both our feet on the ground and are approachable. 

In addition to this we provide a comprehensive Total Rewards package that includes:

• Medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance
• 401k/Profit Sharing Retirement Plan
• Paid time off benefits including vacation and holidays
• Tuition assistance
• An onsite subsidized café overlooking 30 acres of renowned display gardens and restored natural areas
• Employee Assistance Program and Positive Health programs