Job Description
Position: Research Associate III - Genotyping
Location: Mills River, NC
Type: Full time
Desired start date : Aug 15th, 2024
The Opportunity: Ohalo Genetics is seeking a motivated Genotyping Research Associate III to contribute to our high throughput genotyping pipeline including using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and other molecular techniques. The successful candidate will have extensive experience in PCR setup, interpretation, genotyping and experience with NGS library preparation and sequencing. The candidate will work with other research associates and scientists to screen hundreds of plant tissue samples and conduct other molecular biology experiments to facilitate genotyping. They will be responsible for supporting day-to-day genotyping tasks and communicating progress and timelines to other teams. This role will ensure the proper operation of our high throughput genotyping pipeline. The genotyping Research Associate III will monitor the status of the genotyping pipeline and troubleshoot any issues in a timely manner.
Responsibilities: - Perform DNA extraction, PCR and library preparation
- Execute our high throughput genotyping workflow with automation. Identify problems and troubleshoot them
- Communicate genotyping timelines, updates, and results to related teams
- Careful execution of protocols for biotechnology/molecular biology experiments
- Performing analytical assays for QC or research purposes
- Detailed note-taking using an electronic lab notebook and accurate data entry into database
- Maintaining a clean and safe laboratory and working environment
- Monitor equipment status, minimizing downtime of the genotyping pipeline
- Ensure determined throughput goals are met
- Provide supervision and support for junior RA(s) in the team
- Hiring, training and/or management of new employees
- Communicating progress regularly to stakeholders across Ohalo sites through meetings and written reports
- Ensure that appropriate standard operating procedures (SOP's) are developed and maintained for all aspects of production
- Establish and track KPIs and interface with the Lab Director to streamline production practices.
Candidate Profile: - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biology, Plant Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or a similar field
- 5+ years experience or 2+ years experience with Master's degree in a similar role
- Minimum of 2 years experience working a production lab environment.
- Strong laboratory skills and experience with molecular biology techniques, such as DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR or ddPCR.
- Strong understanding and experience of illumina sequencing, library preparation and QC
- Strong understanding of molecular biology and genotyping methods
- Exceptional organization & communication skills. Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate laboratory records
- Familiarity with plant breeding, genetic engineering and plant tissue culture/regeneration
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced, start-up company environment
- Proficiency with MS word and excel
- Growth mindset, considers no limit to excellence
Desired skills/experience: - Experience in designing and optimizing complex and multiplexed PCR
- Advanced knowledge and experience of illumina library preparation and sequencing
- Experience with automated liquid handling equipments
- Demonstrated ability to follow lengthy and detailed protocols
- Experience working with delicate analytical and assay instruments such as a Flow Cytometer, Nanodrop, Bioanalyzer, or Microplate reader.
- Proven ability to take initiative in process optimization and troubleshooting
- Some managing experience or proven leadership
- Advanced data analysis skills using R or similar tools
Demands - On site (one location) Monday through Friday
- Standing 40-50% of the day
- Intensive pipetting requiring dexterity and vision
About Ohalo Genetics: Ohalo™ aims to accelerate evolution to unlock nature's potential. Founded in 2019, Ohalo develops novel breeding systems and improved plant varieties that help farmers grow more food with fewer natural resources, increasing the yield, resiliency, and genetic diversity of crops to sustainably feed our population. Ohalo's breakthrough technology, Boosted Breeding™, will usher in a new era of improved productivity to radically transform global agriculture. For more information, visit
Notes: If you previously applied for a job at Ohalo Genetics, we encourage you to restate your interest in the position by submitting your application.
No visa sponsorship is available for this position at this time.
No recruiters please.
Job Tags
Full time, Monday to Friday,