Research Associate

Vylor, Inc.; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid time off

Parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Retirement plan

Job summary

Vylor, Inc. is hiring an entry-level Research Associate to support transient plant assays used to evaluate early trait candidates. You will assist with assay setup, plant care, and sample collection, ensuring data are accurate and well-documented for trait discovery.

The role involves collaboration with researchers and cross-functional teams in a safety-conscious lab and growth-chamber environment. The position emphasizes data quality, protocol adherence, and opportunities to improve assay

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field; coursework or hands-on experience in plant biology, microbiology, greenhouse experimentation, or biological assay development preferred.
• Strong interest in plant molecular biology and willingness to work in laboratory and growth-chamber environments.
• Attention to detail and ability to generate accurate, well-documented data.

Responsibilities

• Assist with assay setup and execution, including plant care and sample collection following established protocols.
• Support development, validation, and implementation of lab- and growth-chamber-based assays.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and perform basic data analysis for scientists.
• Contribute to improvements in assay throughput, safety, and efficiency.

Skills

Plant molecular biology

Laboratory skills

Data quality checks

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

Job description

Join Vylor—Powering the Future of AgricultureAt 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 an entry-level Research Associate to support the development and execution of transient plant assays used to evaluate early trait candidates. In this role, you will assist with assay preparation, experimental execution, data-quality checks, and improvements to transient screening workflows. You will work with research scientists, technical staff, and cross-functional partners to complete assays safely, consistently, and on schedule while generating accurate, reproducible data that supports trait discovery and product advancement.Responsibilities- What You'll Do:Assist with assay setup and execution, including plant care, bacterial culture preparation, scoring, sample collection, and post-assay cleanup according to established protocols.Support the development, optimization, validation, and implementation of laboratory- and growth-chamber-based assays.Maintain accurate records of experimental designs, assay conditions, observations, sample movement, and any protocol deviations.Review, summarize, quality-check, and perform basic data analysis to support interpretation by research scientists and project teams.Help identify opportunities to improve assay robustness, throughput, reproducibility, safety, and operational efficiency.Follow applicable safety, stewardship, biological-containment, greenhouse, laboratory, and field operating procedures.Communicate progress, issues, risks, and results clearly to supervisors, scientists, and collaborators.Qualifications- What You'll Bring:EducationBachelor’s degree in biology or a related field, such as microbiology, plant science, agronomy, biochemistry, molecular biology, or plant genetics; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and hands-on experience. Coursework or hands-on experience in plant biology, microbiology, greenhouse experimentation, or biological assay development is preferred.Experience and SkillsStrong interest in plant molecular biology and willingness to work in laboratory and growth-chamber environments.Familiarity with plant biology, plant gene expression, or microbiology is preferred.Hands-on experience with bacterial cultures, plant propagation, or plasmid preparation is helpful but not required.Strong attention to detail and commitment to generating accurate, consistent, and well-documented experimental data.Ability to organize daily tasks, manage multiple activities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing experimental or operational needs.Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document protocols, summarize observations, and share technical updates with project teams.Proficiency with common computer applications, including Microsoft Office 365 tools, for communication, data entry, spreadsheet management, record keeping, file sharing, and basic data summarization.Ability to follow instructions, work independently when appropriate, and contribute to a team-oriented research environment.Commitment to safety, stewardship, compliance, and proper handling of biological materials, chemicals, equipment, and research samples.***Please note there is no relocation or visa sponsorship available for this role.Benefits – How We’ll Support You:Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skillsBe part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better placeHealth benefits for you and your family on your first day of employmentFour weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidaysExcellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and fatherFuture planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement programLearn more about our total rewards package here - Corteva BenefitsCheck out life at Vylor! https://www.linkedin.com/company/vylorgenetics/Are you a good match? Apply today! We seek applicants from all backgrounds to ensure we get the best, most creative talent on our team.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.