Research Associate, Research Assistant/Associate, Biology
Job in
Johnston, Polk County, Iowa, 50131, USA
Listed on 2026-08-30
Listing for:
Corteva Agriscience
Full Time
position Listed on 2026-08-30
Job specializations:
-
Research/Development
Research Assistant/Associate, Biology, Research Scientist, Biotech Research
Job Description & How to Apply Below
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.
We are seeking an entry-level
** Research Associate
** to support the development and execution of transient plant assays used to evaluate early trait candidates. In this role, you will assist with assay preparation, experimental execution, data-quality checks, and improvements to transient screening workflows. You will work with research scientists, technical staff, and cross-functional partners to complete assays safely, consistently, and on schedule while generating accurate, reproducible data that supports trait discovery and product advancement.
** Responsibilities
- What You'll Do:*
* + Assist with assay setup and execution, including plant care, bacterial culture preparation, scoring, sample collection, and post-assay cleanup according to established protocols.
+ Support the development, optimization, validation, and implementation of laboratory- and growth-chamber-based assays.
+ Maintain accurate records of experimental designs, assay conditions, observations, sample movement, and any protocol deviations.
+ Review, summarize, quality-check, and perform basic data analysis to support interpretation by research scientists and project teams.
+ Help identify opportunities to improve assay robustness, throughput, reproducibility, safety, and operational efficiency.
+ Follow applicable safety, stewardship, biological-containment, greenhouse, laboratory, and field operating procedures.
+ Communicate progress, issues, risks, and results clearly to supervisors, scientists, and collaborators.
** Qualifications
- What You'll Bring:*
* ** Education*
* + Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, such as microbiology, plant science, agronomy, biochemistry, molecular biology, or plant genetics; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and hands-on experience. Coursework or hands-on experience in plant biology, microbiology, greenhouse experimentation, or biological assay development is preferred.
** Experience and Skills*
* + Strong interest in plant molecular biology and willingness to work in laboratory and growth-chamber environments.
+ Familiarity with plant biology, plant gene expression, or microbiology is preferred.
+ Hands-on experience with bacterial cultures, plant propagation, or plasmid preparation is helpful but not required.
+ Strong attention to detail and commitment to generating accurate, consistent, and well-documented experimental data.
+ Ability to organize daily tasks, manage multiple activities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing experimental or operational needs.
+ Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document protocols, summarize observations, and share technical updates with project teams.
+ Proficiency with common computer applications, including Microsoft Office 365 tools, for communication, data entry, spreadsheet management, record keeping, file sharing, and basic data summarization.
+ Ability to follow instructions, work independently when appropriate, and contribute to a team-oriented research environment.
+ Commitment to safety, stewardship, compliance, and proper handling of biological materials, chemicals, equipment, and research samples.
***** Please note there is no relocation or visa sponsorship available for this role.*
* ** Benefits - How We'll Support You:*
* + 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…
Position Requirements
10+ Years
work experience
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