Plant Analysis Research Specialist
About The Position
The Wisconsin Crop Innovation Center (WCIC) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is seeking a highly motivated, independent, and detail-oriented individual to join the Plant Analysis Team as a Research Specialist. This role involves testing hundreds of plants weekly using molecular techniques such as PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, and PACE to confirm the success of cutting-edge plant transformation projects. The specialist will communicate results to guide greenhouse decisions and project direction, sample plants, extract DNA, perform genetic assays, interpret sequence data, maintain laboratory supplies, and work alongside student employees. Opportunities exist to expand skills in plant transformation, plasmid construction, and transgenic plant greenhouse management. WCIC is a large, state-of-the-art agricultural biotechnology complex dedicated to the production and analysis of transgenic and gene-edited plants, aiming to improve crop plants for humans, livestock, and the environment.
Requirements
- Minimum of 1 year of laboratory experience in academic, industry, or research settings (may include undergraduate research experience)
- Minimum of 1 year of experience performing data collection, recordkeeping, and basic data analysis
- Minimum of 1 year of experience with standard molecular biology techniques (for example pipetting, DNA extraction, PCR, Gel Electrophoresis)
- Bachelor’s Degree in the biological sciences (General Biology, Biochemistry, Environmental Biology, Health Science, or a similar field)
- Eligibility to work in the United States without employer sponsorship
Nice To Haves
- Experience in advanced molecular biology techniques (multi-channel pipetting, automated pipetting, RNA extraction, qPCR, ddPCR, PACE / KASP assays, primer and probe design)
- Experience with high throughput / automation
- Experience with sequence / SNP analysis
- Hands on experience with plants / greenhouse
- Bachelor’s Degree specialized in plant science and/or genetics (Plant Biotechnology, Plant Breeding, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Plant Pathology, Horticulture, Crop Science, Plant Biology, or a similar field)
Responsibilities
- Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences
- Performs literature reviews and writes reports
- Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s)
- Collects data and monitors test results
- Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials
- Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area
- Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
- Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers
Benefits
- Generous vacation
- Holidays
- Paid time off
- Competitive insurances
- Savings accounts
- Retirement benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
