Overview:

AgReliant Genetics is the fastest growing independent seed company in the industry and currently the 4th largest field seeds company in the United States. Our goal is to offer the best seed products to our North American customers through superior research, breeding and production techniques by focusing ONLY on seed.

Headquartered in Westfield, Indiana, AgReliant Genetics is owned by two of the largest independent seed companies in the world. KWS and Limagrain bring over 200 years of combined seed experience to AgReliant Genetics.

Innovation, superior service and exceptional customer value are the center point of our multiple brand offering. AgReliant Genetics offers the best seed products available through the brands; AgriGold, LG Seeds, Great Lakes Hybrids, Wensman, Producers Hybrids, and Pride.

The cornerstone of the success of AgReliant Genetics is our people. At every level, our employees have a hand in maintaining the company’s reputation and furthering our growth. That’s why we pursue excellent people and do our best to provide a challenging and rewarding work experience.
We are currently accepting applications for the position of Research Associate for our Molecular Marker Lab.

This position, under the supervision of the Molecular Marker Lab Manager, the incumbent takes initiatives and responsibilities in planning, organizing, and conducting GMO tests in corn for transgene purity, adventitious presence (AP), and zygosity analyses.

Responsibilities:

• Coordinating transgenic purity, AP, and event zygosity test requirements with our breeding and MAB (Marker Assisted Backcross) teams.
• Organizing and conducting projects, including the implementation of appropriate methodologies, depending on the assay target(s).
• Coordinating sample taking, preparation, and shipment (within and outside our GMO lab), depending on the required test.
• Supervising and participating in sample preparation, DNA extraction and quantification/normalization.
• Conducting end-point fluorescence and real time PCR for the detection of transgenic events, zygosity assays, and monitoring transgenic contamination in company seed lots.
• Data collection and analysis. Compiling GMO reports and interpreting results to the analysis requesters.
• Maintaining a seed and leaf sample inventory as well as implementing a long-term sample storage system.
• Working cohesively with the marker genotyping team for integrated projects involving flanking marker analyses.
• Routine lab duties such as purchasing and organizing chemicals, chemical stock preparation, safety labeling of hazardous materials, and lab waste disposal.
• Providing assistance in training new lab associates as required.
• Assisting in the development, technical evaluation, and implementation of new GMO assays, partly in collaboration with external GMO labs.
• Duties and responsibilities may be revised as needed by the Molecular Marker Lab Manager either verbally and/or in writing.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in the field of agricultural biotechnology.
• Knowledge in commercial corn transgenic events and practical experience in event purity and AP testing.
• Ability to design cross-checking schemes for genetic elements in a given transgenic event.
• Experience in high throughput genotyping using simplex assays is advantageous.
• Common DNA lab skills such as DNA extraction, routine PCR setup for end-point fluorescence detection and real-time PCR analysis for quantitative measurements.
• Experiences with liquid handlers and other lab automation tools are advantageous.
• Computer skills with common software are required.
• Good observation and troubleshooting as well as accurate record keeping.
• Strong bases in genetics and breeding are advantageous.
• Positive attitude towards heavy workloads under tight deadlines and ability to concurrently work on multiple tasks. Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to work required hours.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work required hours; ability to lift 25 lbs.

Please apply online at: https://careers-agreliantgenetics.icims.com/jobs/1377/research-associate---molecular-marker-lab-gmo-testing-in-corn/job

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