Cell Biology Lead

JOB SUMMARY:

Responsible for effective implementation of various cell biology protocols (primarily dihaploid plant production) in multiple vegetable species. Coordinate with breeding programs for timely production of dihaploid plants. Contribute to improvement of existing protocols and methods. Establish and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Cell Biology activities. Collaborate and communicate effectively with other members of project teams.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES*:

• Coordinate and manage dihaploid (DH) plant production for various breeding programs.
• Manage and track KPIs for Cell Biology activities.
• Ensure adequate supply of plant materials for DH plant production to meet production targets.
• Ensure relevant lab equipment and reagents are available to meet KPIs.
• Maintain accurate records of tissue culture protocols and improvements made to protocols.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols, local regulations and company policies.
• Teach and train other cell biology lab members.
• Develop project plans for labor, scheduling, resources and milestones for various projects.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/ SKILLS/ ABILITIES:

• BSc or Msc in plant biology, biotechnology, cell biology or related field.
• BSc with 4+ years of practical experience or MSc with 1+ years experience in academic or industry lab.
• Sound understanding and experience in cell biology methods and protocols and good lab practices.
• Previous hands-on experience in dihaploid production.
• Experience in protocol optimization and development a plus.
• Experience working with vegetable crops a plus.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• BSc, Msc or PhD. in plant biology, biotechnology, cell biology or related field.

EXPERIENCE AND BACKGROUND:

• Previous experience in all aspects of dihaploid plant production, micro-propogation and plant maintenance. Experience in project management and scheduling to meet defined project milestones.

WORKING CONDITIONS/ PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to work with hazardous lab chemicals, pesticides, or other possibly irritating substances.
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment when necessary or required.
• Must be able to work some long and irregular hours (including overtime) and stand or sit for long periods.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

• Salary: $75,000 – $110,000 per year
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance coverage for employees and their families
• Basic Life & AD&D Insurance
• 401k program with company match
• Profit Sharing program (via 401k)
• Holiday & Performance Incentive Bonus program
• Paid Vacation: 10 days per year to start, increases with tenure
• Sick Leave: 1 hour accrued per 30 hours worked for first 30 days, 6.67 hours per month after.
• 14 paid company holidays, 2 floating holidays & birthday off
• Paid Family Leave: 15 days after 12 months of service for FMLA qualifying events
• Company provided EAP
• Company provided subsidy for health/fitness clubs & apps

* To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty (as described above) satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable Individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.