Host Resistance Research Associate I

Driscoll’s•Watsonville, CA

About The Position

The Host Resistance Research Associate I at Driscoll’s in Watsonville, CA, plays a key role in supporting the development and execution of plant resistance assays to evaluate berry crops' responses to diseases and pests. Working closely with the Host Resistance Senior Scientist, the associate conducts experiments in lab, greenhouse, and field settings, manages data, and contributes to the discovery of molecular markers for breeding. Responsibilities include pathogen inoculum production, DNA analysis, and maintaining clean, safe workspaces. The ideal candidate holds a bachelor’s degree in a plant health-related field, has hands-on experience with plant pathology techniques, and demonstrates strong organizational, communication, and collaborative skills. The role requires physical stamina, occasional travel, and a commitment to ethical and professional conduct in line with Driscoll’s values.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Plant Pathology, Microbiology, Plant Science, Biological Science or related field in plant health with 0-3 years' experience; 2+ years' industry experience relevant to the position preferred.
Knowledge of plant cultivation.
Developed organization skills and detail-oriented.
Can be productive and self-driven individual.
Maintain good relationships with peers, coworkers and collaborators.
Be able to move work forward by working independently or as a collaborative team member depending on project.
Familiarity with microscopy, microbiological techniques and different media preparation for fungal and bacterial plant pathogens.
Comfortable working with plant pathogens (fungal and bacterial) and with economically important insect pest.
Be able to stand long hours during experiment set up and data collection.
Be able to work under hot and humid conditions in the greenhouse and crop field.
English fluency.
Be able to write reports and prepare presentations for stakeholders. Potential to develop effective communication skills. Explain complex information in a straightforward manner.
Be able to lift 40 lbs. weight.
Domestic and International travel required up to 10%.
California driver’s license and ability to be covered under company vehicle insurance.

Nice To Haves

Experience with disease resistance screening in the lab, greenhouse and test plot would be a plus.
Experience with PCR, qPCR would be a plus.

Responsibilities

Plan with supervisor and assist in the set up and execution of plant resistance assays for key target pathogens and other biotic stresses on all four berry crops in the lab, greenhouse, growth chamber and test plots.
Assist in designing experiments, conduct inoculations, maintain plants, and evaluate responses in trials using standardized protocols.
Aid in improving assay protocols as needed.
Collect, organize and manage experimental data using Excel or other data platforms.
Timely delivery of data and communicate appropriate observations that should inform analysis.
Assist in statistical analysis and interpretation of results.
Contribute to preparing the data summary, presentations and internal reports.
Produce and quantify pathogen inoculum.
Perform DNA extraction, PCR or qPCR and DNA sequencing depending on the project.
Pure culture and single spore isolates, culture maintenance and long-term storage.
Operational and safety compliance.
Maintain clean and organized workspaces in lab and greenhouse environments.
Follow safety protocols and biosafety procedures for handling plant pathogens and reagents we use.
Perform other lab duties as assigned.

Benefits

comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, and disability coverage for positions working more than 30 hours per week (US)
401(k) with employer match
profit-sharing participation
paid sick time
paid vacation
paid personal and family care leave
free Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

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