Senior Research Associate – Plant Transformation

Join Vylor—Powering the Future of Agriculture

At Vylor, we’re advancing agriculture through breakthrough science—combining elite germplasm, cutting-edge biotech, and next-generation expertise in gene editing and molecular breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer®, Brevant® and Hoegemeyer®, delivering performance farmers rely on.

Join us to help scale innovation globally and shape what’s next in crop science.

Genome Editing has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Research Associate – Plant Transformation, 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 and troubleshoot protocols and deliver high quality results on time. The candidate
1) will plan, manage, and execute tissue culture experiments performed with Agrobacterium and particle gun bombardment transformation, in a high throughput setting,
2) will document experimental data accurately into database system(s),
3) will participate in improvement of established methods to increase their efficiency,
4) develop new techniques and methodologies and
5) may organize and supervise work of Research Assistant(s) and/or temporary employees ensuring experiments are performed in safe and efficient manner.

• Carry out soybean, canola, wheat, cotton, sorghum and maize genome editing transformation experiments and collect data from experiments
• 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
• Participate in team supporting activities such as explant preparation, equipment maintenance, media assessment or improvement, culture room maintenance, or information management
• Provide technical support and conduct experiment with a respectful, collaborative, and positive team spirit
• Provide summaries and reports to supervisors

• Bachelor's or master’s degree program in plant science, biological science, genetics, or related field such as horticulture or biotechnology or related subject with at least 5 years of lab experience.
• Experience with aseptic techniques in laminar flow and bio-containment hoods and plant tissue culture/transformation.
• Working knowledge in transient and stable transformation with single cells, plant suspension cultures, and tissue explants for gene expression and characterization
• Experience with light and fluorescent microscopy
• Proven ability to handle multiple assignment and easy transitioning to new assignments in rapidly changing work environment.
• Capable of proactively identifying problem research areas, troubleshooting, and finding solutions
• Proven ability to maintain complete, accurate and timely records of experimental data and procedures.
• Experience and knowledge in laboratory safety practices, including use of PPE, SDSs and proper handling and disposal of laboratory waste.
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Office software, and experience in databases and/or LIMS systems.
• 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.
• Please note there is no visa sponsorship available for this role.

• Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skills
• Be part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better place
• Health benefits for you and your family on your first day of employment
• Four weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidays
• Excellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and father
• Future planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement program
• Learn more about our total rewards…