Transient Expression Research Associate - Plant Molecular Biology

NCBioImpact; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Upstream Biotechnology, Inc. seeks a Research Associate skilled in Nicotiana benthamiana transient expression to execute established workflows and optimize assays in crop-relevant systems.

You will document procedures, troubleshoot experiments, and contribute to method optimization. You will perform gene expression measurements, assess reporter activity, support rapid construct screening, and collaborate with transformation and greenhouse teams to translate transient findings into stable trait

Qualifications

• Master's in Plant Biology or related field, or a bachelor's with 3+ years of relevant post-baccalaureate experience.
• Hands-on experience with Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression in N. benthamiana.
• Proficiency in plant molecular biology techniques.
• Ability to manage multiple experiments in a fast-paced environment.
• Legal eligibility to work in the United States; no visa sponsorship is available.

Responsibilities

• Execute established transient expression assays in Nicotiana benthamiana.
• Measure reporter activity, gene expression, and downstream phenotypes.
• Conduct rapid construct screening and test biological hypotheses.
• Maintain high-quality records and data analysis workflows.

Skills

N. benthamiana

Transient expression

Molecular biology

Troubleshooting

Experiment management

Education

Master's in Plant Biology/Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/Plant Biotechnology or related field

Bachelor's + 3+ years substitute for Master's

Tools

PCR

qPCR

Vector assembly

Job description

Upstream Biotechnology, Inc. seeks a Research Associate skilled in Nicotiana benthamiana transient expression to execute established workflows and optimize assays in crop-relevant systems.

You will document procedures, troubleshoot experiments, and contribute to method optimization. You will perform gene expression measurements, assess reporter activity, support rapid construct screening, and collaborate with transformation and greenhouse teams to translate transient findings into stable trait