Sr Research Associate – Assay Development

Location: San Diego, CA
Position Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $66,000 - $77,000
Area(s) of Expertise Desired: Automation, DNA Extraction, Molecular Biology, Genotyping, Molecular Diagnostics
Job Code: GE2328

Description:

Cibus is a biotechnology company with advanced technologies to precisely target and direct a plant’s natural gene-editing processes. This approach accelerates natural plant breeding that has been a staple of farming for thousands of years and has resulted in a rapid, versatile and low-cost way to produce sustainable industrial and agricultural products and improve human health by safely harnessing nature's own genetic diversity.

The company has a worldwide presence, with subsidiaries in Europe and North America and a state-of-the-art research and development center in San Diego. Cibus has a pipeline of traits for canola and rice and is developing crop platforms and a pipeline of trait products in other major global crops including soybean, corn, and wheat. The broad applicability of Cibus’ technologies is highlighted by the company’s strain-advancement program, which develops sustainable products in microbial platforms for the food, flavor and fragrance, and personal care markets.

Cibus has an immediate opening for a contract Associate – High-throughput Genotyping position to help us to revolutionize plant breeding using our unique, patented gene editing technology. The successful applicant will help to run automated high-throughput workflows to genotype gene edited materials across Cibus’ R&D pipeline. The position is contract-based, with the possibility of being extended based on business needs. This position offers an excellent opportunity for a talented individual to learn and grow in a dynamic R&D environment focused on cutting edge gene editing technology.

Role Responsibilities:

• Assist in the design, execution, and optimization of high throughput genotyping workflows, including DNA extraction, PCR, and next-generation sequencing library preparation.
• Operate and maintain liquid handling systems such as Hamilton machines, ensuring the efficiency and quality of the genotyping process.
• Assist in the development, implementation, and troubleshooting of scripts and protocols to automate and manage various workflows.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support project needs, providing expertise in genotyping and automation technologies.
• Analyze and interpret experimental results, identifying areas for improvement or optimization.
• Stay current with the latest industry trends, technologies, and best practices in genotyping and automation.
• Contribute to maintaining laboratory safety and quality control standards.
• Regularly document and maintain detailed records of experimental procedures, results, and data analysis to ensure proper documentation and reproducibility.
• Participate in regular team meetings and project updates to ensure effective communication and collaboration.
• Assist in the evaluation and implementation of new genotyping technologies and laboratory equipment to improve throughput, efficiency, and data quality.
• Conduct routine quality control checks of reagents, consumables, and equipment to maintain high standards of performance and reliability.
• Assist in the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices for the genotyping laboratory.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a genotyping or molecular biology laboratory setting.
• Familiarity with various genotyping techniques, including PCR and next-generation sequencing library preparation.
• Experience with liquid handling systems, particularly Hamilton machines, is a plus.
• Basic understanding of scripting languages such as Python, R, or similar for workflow automation and data analysis.
• Good problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Cibus provides an attractive compensation and benefits package that includes medical/dental/vision, flexible spending, 401(k) plan, vacation and sick leave. If you enjoy working as part of a team and want to participate in this exciting research, please e-mail your resume to and put down job code: GE2328.

ONLY CANDIDATES WITH WORK AUTHORIZATION IN THE U.S. ARE CONSIDERED AT THIS TIME.