Plant Molecular Biologist

The work we do at Eurofins Professional Scientific Services matters, and so do our employees. At Eurofins PSS, we put a focus on your professional growth. We provide our employees the ability to break into the biopharmaceutical industry and grow from the bottom up. We have the supportive teams and tools available to invest in you while also affording you work-life balance and a competitive benefits package.

Eurofins Scientific is an international life sciences company, providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable. From the food you eat, to the water you drink, to the medicines you rely on, Eurofins works with the biggest companies in the world to ensure the products they supply are safe, their ingredients are authentic and labelling is accurate. Eurofins believes it is a global leader in food, environmental, pharmaceutical and cosmetics products testing and in agroscience CRO services. It is also one of the global independent market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, CDMO, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies.

If youre looking for a rewarding career, a place to call home, apply with us today!

The Plant Molecular Biologist will be working at a tobacco manufacturing plant in the biotech lab and greenhouse facilities. The position will include but not be limited to the following responsibilities:

• Perform molecular biology techniques such as DNA and RNA extraction; DNA and RNA QC PCR; sanger sequencing; qPCR; and basic tissue culture
• Carry out end to end operations of the LGC SNPLine pipeline on plants
• Carry out operations for methods using Gas Chromatography
• Manage workflows, track samples and project progress, meet project deadlines, handle troubleshooting of robotics platforms and instruments as needed
• Carry out routine tasks in support of research greenhouse operations, including but not limited to: media preparation; seeding and transplanting plants; harvesting seed; water and nutrient application; supply inventory; plant sampling; sample grinding and preparation; harvest, clean, and store pollen.
• Carry out facility sanitization by cleaning, scrubbing, hosing, discarding plant materials, and applying sanitizing chemicals
• Oversee greenhouse facility infrastructure by operating greenhouse controls having to do with heating, ventilation, cooling, and lighting. Liaison with facilities maintenance as needed for support and repair.
• Manage sample inventory. Carry out tasks including, but not limited to: freeze drying, grinding, box/bottling, sample organization, and workspace organization
• Apply the highest quality standard in all areas of responsibility
• Demonstrate strong client service skills
• Proactively plan and maximize productivity

Basic Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree in Molecular Biology, Life Science, Plant Science, or related scientific discipline with 2+ years of relevant genetics research laboratory and greenhouse experience. OR and Advanced degree with 0 years experience
• Knowledge and experience of basic plant molecular breeding principles, plant genetics, microbiology, and basic plant tissue culture
• Hands-on experience running workflows for next and third generation sequencing platforms (minion, Premethion, etc), and end to end operations of the LGC SNPLine platform.
• Ability to stand and work on the feet for full shifts; ability to lift 50 lbs
• Ability to drive personal vehicle to off-site field locations
• Authorization to work in the United States indefinitely without restriction or sponsorship

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in the tobacco industry
• Experience a GMP/GLP or ISO compliance laboratory environment
• Experience working in a research greenhouse; understanding of research greenhouse operations; background in crop science preferred
• Detailed-oriented with strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Strong written, verbal and presentation skills along with demonstrated ability to collaborate with others.
• Strong computer, scientific, and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, self-motivation, adaptability, and a positive attitude

Position is Full Time, Monday Friday, 8am-5pm. Candidates currently living within a commutable distance of Richmond , VA are encouraged to apply.

What we offer:

• Excellent full time benefits including comprehensive medical coverage, dental, and vision options
• Life and disability insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Yearly goal-based bonus & eligibility for merit-based increases

Eurofins USA PSS Insourcing Solutions is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.