Biologics Research Associate

HarveStaff; Chesterfield (MO); On-site; USD 37,195 - 45,460; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural research firm is seeking a Biologics Research Associate to support R&D in plant biology, microbiology, and molecular biology. This role involves greenhouse trials, field sampling, and molecular techniques to study corn varieties and their interactions with fungi. A Bachelor's degree with experience in relevant fields is required, and the compensation ranges from $27.00 to $33.00 per hour. Candidates should be organized and proactive with strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Experience in plant physiology, plant–microbe interactions, soil microbiology, or molecular biology is required.
• Microscopy experience, especially fluorescence imaging, is a plus.
• Ability to present complex results simply is essential.

Responsibilities

• Set up and maintain greenhouse experiments.
• Perform routine molecular work including DNA extraction.
• Collect root samples from field sites.

Skills

Plant physiology

Plant–microbe interactions

Soil microbiology

Molecular biology

Microscopy

Clear communication

Strong organization

Proactive mindset

Education

Bachelor’s degree with 4+ years of relevant experience

Master’s degree with 1 year of relevant experience

Job description

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Job Summary

Our client is looking for Biologics Research Associate to join our R&D team for a one-year discovery project. You’ll help us study how different corn varieties interact with beneficial fungi by working across the greenhouse, lab, and field. This role blends plant biology, microbiology, and molecular biology and gives you the chance to contribute to research that supports the future of agricultural innovation.

Compensation

$27.00/hr - $33.00/hr

Job Description

• Greenhouse Trials: Help set up and maintain greenhouse experiments, including planting, fertilizing, taking measurements, and harvesting plants when needed.
• Microbial Work: Use basic microbiology techniques to grow, count, and apply microbial inoculum for plant treatments.
• Field Sampling: Travel to field sites to collect root samples from various corn lines.
• Molecular Biology: Perform routine molecular work such as DNA extraction, quantification, and amplification (including qRT-PCR).
• Bioinformatics Support: Assist in identifying and analyzing gene variants across different corn germplasm.
• Microscopy: Examine plant roots using standard and advanced microscopy methods, including staining and fluorescence imaging.
• Data & Reporting: Help gather and analyze data, and share results with the broader R&D team.
• Team Support: Work with colleagues on plant physiology studies or microbiology experiments when extra help is needed.
• Safety & Compliance: Follow lab safety procedures and support efforts to protect research and intellectual property.

Skills Required

• Experience in at least one of the following: plant physiology, plant–microbe interactions, soil microbiology, or molecular biology.
• Microscopy experience (especially fluorescence imaging) is a big plus.
• Strong scientific foundation and ability to bring together knowledge from different disciplines.
• Clear communication skills—both written and spoken—with the ability to present complex results in a simple way.
• Strong organization and the ability to work both independently and with a team.
• Flexible, proactive mindset with a focus on achieving project goals.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree with 4+ years of relevant experience, or
• Master’s degree with at least 1 year of relevant experience in Plant Physiology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.