Description

Corteva Agriscience has an exciting opportunity for a Research Associate – Molecular Screening, based in Johnston, Iowa.

This is a lab-based position which requires the ability to work efficiently both independently as well as in a team environment, follow, develop, and troubleshoot protocols and deliver high quality results on time. You will apply state-of-the-art molecular biology techniques in support of a quantitative high throughput plant next generation sequencing and qPCR pipeline and document experimental data accurately into database system(s). In addition, you will participate in development and improvement of established methods to increase the efficiency and efficacy of different systems.

Responsibilities - What You'll Do:

• Follow the direction of supervisor(s) and maintain a reliable molecular screening pipeline that fills critical R&D (Research & Development) goals to support the discovery, characterization, and development of genome editing applications.

• Participate in new technology development or process improvement studies – activities include experimental plan, testing of hypothesis, making observation, data collection and analysis

• Follow company safety policies, protocols, and procedures, and ensure a safe working environment for self and team members

• Collaborate across multifunctional teams to find new insights

• Provide technical support and conduct experiments with a respectful, collaborative, and positive team spirit

• Provide summaries and reports to supervisors

Qualifications

Qualifications - What You'll Bring:

• Associate’s degree in a relevant field, such as molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, biology, or any biological discipline requiring lab work

• Previous lab work experience or proficiency in DNA/RNA isolation, various PCR methods to characterize tissue/cells and NGS sample preparation and data analysis

• Experience with high-throughput laboratory automation

• Proven abilities in developing and optimizing assays for reliable routine use within a pipeline

• Proven ability to maintain complete, accurate and timely records of experimental data and procedures.

• Must be proficient with Microsoft Office software, and experience in databases and/or LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) systems is a plus.

• This job also requires excellent communication skills, both oral and written.

• Willingness to support a high-quality laboratory environment through custodianship of equipment and strict adherence to lab safety practices.

• Ability to function both independently and as a respectful team member.

Our Community - We care about you and we care that you're comfortable. While there's no place like home, Corteva comes close.
Des Moines, Iowa is the fastest-growing major metropolitan area in the Midwest with a nationally ranked high quality of living. It’s nicknamed the Silicon Prairie for its place as an up-and-coming hot spot for technology. Living here means Saturdays at the nationally renowned Downtown Farmers' Market, sporting events, a robust downtown night life and access to one of the most artistic medium sized cities. If you enjoy the outdoors, Des Moines offers beautiful nature trails for a casual walking, running or biking adventures. 

It means going to a job you love and coming home to a community of friends and family. Communities care about their residents and residents care about their communities, making a difference for everyone who lives here. This is a place where culture flourishes and opportunities grow, where a work-life balance can be achieved, where education is unmatched, and award-winning arts and entertainment are right around the corner. 

Check out life at Corteva! 
https://www.linkedin.com/company/corteva/life

Benefits - Let’s peek at how you can grow your wellbeing, health, and future at Corteva! 

• Strike a better work-life balance with robust time off benefits including paid maternity, paternal and family illness leave

• Prepare for your future with our competitive retirement savings plan, tuition reimbursement program, and more

• Enjoy access to health benefits for you and your family on your first day of employment

• And much, much more!

Ready to grow your perspectives, impact and career?  Growing what matters starts with you — start by applying to this career opportunity today!