Research Scientist I, Plant Pathologist

Summary:

The Plant Pathologist will provide day-to-day leadership in the design, planning, execution, analysis, and presentation of research on plant–microbe interactions and biological crop inputs, working within interdisciplinary teams of scientists. This role will also help implement novel molecular techniques and contribute to discovery and development efforts for biopesticides andbiostimulants.

We’relooking for someone who takes initiative and brings creative,cutting-edgethinking to research questions.

• Design and execute bioassay experiments to advance understanding of plant-microbe interactions, at both small scale (lab) and large scale (greenhouse and field)

• Develop, implement, and train others in fungal, oomycete, and bacterialpathosystemsfor screening newformulations

• Work with diverse microbial plant pathogens, with a focus on fungal and oomycete pathogens such asBotrytisand Bremia

• Apply experimental designoptimizedfor downstream molecularwork

• Collaborate and communicate effectively within and across teams, supporting a small R&D group where agility between projects is essential

• Experience with DNA and RNA extractions from bacterial, fungal, plant, and insect tissues, includingdifficult-to-extract sampletypes

• Sample analysis via PCR, gel electrophoresis, andqPCR

• Microbial identification using sequencing or traditionalmethods

• General microbiology and molecular biology techniques

• Use and maintenance of standard molecular biologyequipment

• Maintain microbial cultures and keep the lab clean and organized

• Prepare test materials andassistother departments with bioassays and sampleanalysis

• Stay current with relevant literature and contribute novel ideas for futureresearch

• Document work to a high standard of completion and accuracy

• Supervise interns or junior scientists in data generation and collection

• Contribute to research team discussions, planning, and evaluation ofresults

• Participate in regular team and long-term project planning

• Perform other duties as assigned

• Master’s or PhD in Plant Pathology or a related field

• 3+ years of industry R&D experience with plant disease bioassays, including experimental design, data analysis, and presentation ofresults

• Strong knowledge of plant pathology, microbiology, and molecular biology

• Proficiency with statistics, including ANOVA and non-linearregression

• Experience with MS Office and statistical software such as JMP or R

• Strong communication skills for working with scientists across diverse backgrounds andspecializations

• Ability to work independently and make day-to-daydecisions

• Ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities and timelines

• High attention to detail, with comfort working across interdisciplinary project teams

• Comfort working in greenhouse and lab settings that may involve soil, dust, and plantmaterial

• Primarily lab- and greenhouse-based, with extended periods at a desk and computer

• Valid driver’s licenserequiredfor occasional travel between work sites (mileage compensated)

• May berequiredto obtain andmaintaina Qualified Applicator License/Certificate from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation

• Pro Farmoffers a comprehensive benefits package including a health plan, medical and dental coverage, life insurance coverage, long term disability and a flexible spending account for dependent care and/or medical expenses.

• The above is a list of the essential duties and responsibilities for this position. This list is notall-inclusive and other duties may be assigned. This job description may bemodifiedas needed.

• Pro Farmis anequal-opportunity employer. A pre-employment background check will be required.