Research Associate - Genotyping Technology

This role will also work as part of the genotyping production team, contributing to project advancement, from sample reception to DNA extraction, assay handling, PCR, and also, will be a key contributor towards expanding RiceTec’s genotyping capacity in other regions. In addition to strong technical experience with high-throughput genotyping systems, the ideal candidate brings excellent organization, initiative, resourcefulness, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.

Essential Duties

High-Throughput Plant Genotyping Production Systems Maintenance, Support and Process Innovation

• Identify and advance lab process and systems innovation initiatives, to increase genotyping productivity and reduce datapoint cost, in coordination with production work, other team members and lab lead.


• Provide fault-detection and problem solving to any instrument and system issues that may emerge and compromise production.


• Coordinate, oversee and execute liquid-handler robotics preventive maintenance plans and repair activities.


• Contribute to managing supplies and other Lab critical elements, as established, to assure production stability and continuity

Genotyping and other production assignments

• Directly conduct any and all aspects of production genotyping work with other team members to attain target production volumes and due dates.


• Provide technical support, training and/or oversight of work conducted by Assistants, Technicians and seasonal staff working in the lab.

Workload and Assignment Coordination

• Coordinate, schedule, monitor and adjust work schedules and activities, interfacing with other team members and team lead, to maximize productivity and meet group deadlines.

Projects and Internal Client Interface

• Oversee project creation and advancement process, contribute to managing internal client relations, communications & training, in coordination with lab lead.


• Interpret key project and production metrics analytics to contribute to continual assessment.

Education/Qualification

High-Throughput Genotyping Lab Experience (5 years cumulated - minimum)

• 5+ years of demonstrated advanced DNA genotyping lab experience.


• Familiarity with endpoint DNA marker technologies, SNPs, and assay library management.

Lab Automation Systems

• Familiarity and demonstrated experience with advanced laboratory systems, liquid handlers (such as Tecan Fluent and Hamilton Star lines), liquid handler scripting, laboratory LIM systems and high-throughput PCR instrumentation.


• Strong technical skills; familiarity with basic pneumatic, electronic lab instrument systems. Strong computer, data management and analysis skills.

Education

• B.S degree in Biological or related fields.


• M.S. degree in Biological or related fields

People Leadership (2-3 years minimum)

• Demonstrated experience in leading, supervision, coaching or mentoring others in technical aspects and processes, such as lab production.


• Team leadership skill.

Work, Communication, and Interpersonal skills

• Strong organizational and record keeping skills; effective verbal and written communication; excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills. Comfortable with multitasking; strong organization and attention to detail.


• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Other Requirements:

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work standing up, with high mobility, in a fast-paced laboratory environment. This position is 100% onsite and may require extended hours and weekend work during peak workloads.

Travel

• Sporadic international and/or regional travel.

Languages

• English, Spanish.

Work Environment:

Expected to perform the essential functions, responsibilities, and physical requirements of this role with or without reasonable accommodation within the described work environment.

• Individuals may need to sit or stand as needed and work in typical laboratory environments.

RiceTec, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing qualified applicants consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other applicable federal or state-protected classification.