Postdoctoral Researcher Expression Element Discovery & Characterization

Iowa Ag; Des Moines, Northern (IA, KY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Vylor, Inc. seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher – Expression Element Discovery & Characterization to advance crop gene expression research and drive innovation in plant biotechnology.

The candidate will develop high-throughput assays and apply molecular biology expertise to identify native regulatory elements in crop genomes. The role requires experience in transcriptomics/omics data analysis, strong collaboration across functions, and the ability to communicate results clearly while navigating

Qualifications

• Extensive hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques.
• Deep expertise in plant gene expression regulatory mechanisms.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools in omics dataset analysis.
• Abilities to work in a highly collaborative environment, partnering effectively with diverse subject-matter experts.
• Strong critical-thinking and proven problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, complemented by strong written and verbal communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Identify native gene expression regulatory elements from crop genomes.
• Develop a robust, high-throughput assay system to evaluate the function of these expression elements.
• Navigate the assay system optimization, providing creative solutions for risk mitigation and contingency planning.
• Manage project timelines and coordinate cross-functional workflows to ensure seamless project execution.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Leadership

Education

PhD in plant molecular biology

Tools

Bioinformatics tools

High-throughput assay platforms

Job description

Join Vylor—Powering the Future of Agriculture?

At Vylor, we’re advancing agriculture through breakthrough science—combining elite germplasm, cutting-edge biotech, and next-generation expertise in gene editing and molecular breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer®, Brevant®, and Hoegemeyer®, delivering performance farmers rely on. Join us to help scale innovation globally and shape what’s next in crop science.

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher – Expression Element Discovery & Characterization. The successful candidate will be a proactive scientist with strong technical problem-solving skills, excellent cross-functional communication and collaboration skills, and proven leadership to drive projects and deliver impactful scientific outcomes.

What You’ll Do:

• Identify native gene expression regulatory elements from crop genomes.
• Develop a robust, high-throughput assay system to evaluate the function of these expression elements.
• Navigate the assay system optimization, providing creative solutions for risk mitigation and contingency planning.
• Manage project timelines and coordinate cross-functional workflows to ensure seamless project execution.

What You Need:

Educational Qualifications:

• PhD in plant molecular biology or a closely related discipline.

Experience in high-throughput transient assay development and large-scale omics dataset analysis is preferred.

Competencies and Qualifications:

• Extensive hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques.
• Deep expertise in plant gene expression regulatory mechanisms.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools in omics dataset analysis.
• Abilities to work in a highly collaborative environment, partnering effectively with diverse subject-matter experts.
• Strong critical-thinking and proven problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, complemented by strong written and verbal communication abilities.

Please note there is no relocation or visa sponsorship available for this role.

Corteva announced to separate our current advanced seed and genetics business to establish a standalone company, operating as Vylor, Inc. The process of the planned separation is anticipated to be completed the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to legal requirements and board approval. Should you accept this position, it is anticipated that, following conclusion of the separation, you would be an employee of Vylor, Inc. and your employment would be governed by Vylor, Inc. employment processes, programs, policies, and benefit plans. In that case, details of any planned changes would be provided to you by Vylor, Inc. at an appropriate time and subject to any necessary consultation processes.

Vylor is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to embracing our differences to enrich lives, advance innovation, and boost company performance. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, military or veteran status, pregnancy related conditions (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), disability or any other protected status in accordance with federal, state, or local laws.