Molecular Biologist

Plastomics, Inc.; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

401(k)

Stock options

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Plastomics, Inc. in St. Louis, MO, is seeking a Molecular Biologist to advance chloroplast genetic engineering in major crops. You will design cloning strategies, troubleshoot toxic genes, and analyze transgenic events using DNA, RNA, and ddPCR.

You will work with a cross‑functional team, maintain detailed records, and communicate progress to leadership in a fast-paced startup environment.

Qualifications

• BS with 7+ years of experience or MS with 5+ years, or PhD with 3+ years post‑grad in molecular biology.
• Proven track record in complex cloning, including toxic genes and alternative systems.
• Hands-on assay design, including ddPCR for genotyping.
• Able to work under tight timelines in a fast-paced startup.
• Strong written and verbal communication; plant biology knowledge is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement transformation vector cloning strategies; troubleshoot toxic genes.
• Identify and analyze transgenic events using DNA/RNA/protein detection and ddPCR genotyping.
• Maintain detailed, organized project records and share progress with team and leadership.
• Communicate research results clearly and regularly to colleagues.

Skills

Molecular biology

Cloning

ddPCR

Plant tissue culture

Communication skills

Education

BS degree

MS degree

PhD

Tools

ddPCR

Plant transformation systems

Job description

Join Plastomics, Inc., a growing Series B-stage plant biotechnology company, and be part of a collaborative, fast-paced team at the forefront of the next agricultural revolution! We are designing the future of crops through chloroplast genetic engineering to introduce game-changing traits into major row crops such as corn, soybean, and canola. We're seeking a highly motivated and entrepreneurial-minded Molecular Biologist to join our fast-paced molecular biology team.

Impact & Innovation:

• Shape the future of agriculture: Contribute directly to the development of novel agricultural trait products with the potential to significantly improve yields, sustainability, and nutrition for today's and tomorrow's global food and feed needs.
• Push the boundaries: Design and execute transformation vector cloning strategies, including creative troubleshooting for hard-to-clone or toxic genes, and identify and analyze transgenic and transplastomic events using DNA, RNA, and protein detection and quantification techniques — including droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) for genotyping.

Dynamic, Team-Based Environment:

• Collaborative spirit: Work closely with cell and molecular biologists across a highly collaborative, cross-functional team to achieve shared goals.
• Clear communication: Maintain detailed, organized project records and communicate research progress and results clearly and regularly to team members and leadership.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Design and implement transformation vector cloning strategies, which may include troubleshooting cloning of toxic genes. Design and implement novel assay design strategies for detection of homoplasmic, transplastomic events.
2. Identify and analyze transgenic events using standard techniques, including DNA, RNA, and protein detection and quantification, and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) for genotyping.
3. Maintain detailed and organized records of project data and other materials as needed.
4. Maintain regular and clear communication of research progress and results to team members and leadership.

Qualifications:

• BS with 7+ years of experience; MS +5 years or Ph.D. with 3+ years post-graduate experience in molecular biology or related field.
• Proven track record of success in complex cloning approaches, including toxic genes and/or alternative transformation systems.
• Hands-on experience with assay design strategies, including droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) for genotyping.
• Ability to perform under tight timelines and with the agility to change course as needed in a fast-paced startup atmosphere.
• Excellent planner, organizer, critical thinker, and problem solver, with a demonstrated ability to efficiently execute project tasks.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of plant tissue culture and transformation technologies and working knowledge of plant molecular biology of crop plants such as corn and/or soybean, are a significant plus.

Location & Benefits:

• Work in the heart of AgTech! Join us at our location in St. Louis, Missouri's 39North AgBiotech district.
• Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and company stock options.
• Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.

Ready to Make a Difference?

At Plastomics, we're not just another biotech company. We're passionate about sustainable solutions for a growing world. If you're a talented and driven scientist with a passion for plant biotechnology, we want to hear from you!