Plant Microbiologist

Job Title: Plant Microbiologist

Duration: 6+ Months (Possibility of Extension & Conversion depending on Performance)

Location: Chesterfield MO

Pay range : $32-37/hr

Job Details :

This position is hosted by the Plant Biotechnology and Small Molecules team and is part of a cross-functional project that integrates Plant Biotechnology, Small Molecules, and Regulatory Affairs.

Position Summary

We are seeking a research specialist to perform studies in plant transformation, including preparation and analysis of protoplasts, nanoparticle encapsulation, uptake & translocation in int protoplast and plant, as well as ribonucleoparticle design and preparation.

Position Duties & Responsibilities

• Execute plant transformation and tissue culture techniques.
• Prepare plant protoplasts and cell suspensions.
• Handle and prepare nucleic acids and nanoparticles.
• Conduct PCR and next-generation sequencing and analysis.
• Express and characterize proteins and produce ribonucleoproteins.
• Design and perform laboratory studies, including seed germination and nanoparticle/ribonucleoprotein uptake and translocation studies.
• Conduct cell biological and whole-plant analyses in controlled environments.
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of scientists to manage data and develop, implement, and document workflows.
• Independently prioritize, evaluate, implement, and troubleshoot approaches and tasks to achieve desired outcomes.
• Communicate results, updates, questions, and troubleshooting steps effectively through written and oral methods to the team.
• Document results and processes clearly for future reference.

Requirements/Preferences

Education Requirement(s):

• Minimum of 4 years of experience, including graduate education (e.g., MS + 2 years or PhD).

Skill & Competency Requirements: (list 3 to 5 non-negotiable items such as years of experience, industry of preference, specific knowledge items, professional certifications, skills, abilities, etc.)

• MS in Plant Science, Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or related discipline
• Innovative mindset with hands-on experience in research involving plant cellular systems, protoplasts, and plant transformation.
• Self-motivated with strong organizational, written and verbal communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to document research project results through oral presentations and/or peer-reviewed scientific publications.
• Quick learner with the ability to rapidly apply new concepts and techniques.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and effectively communicate with cross-functional teams.

Preferences: (list nice-to-haves such as specific knowledge items, certifications, skills, abilities, etc.)

• Experience with nanotechnology.
• Experience with microbial fermentation and protein purification from microbial sources.
• Experience with plant-microbe interactions.
• Experience with recombinant protein cloning, expression, and characterization.
• Familiarity with ribonucleoproteins.

Dexian is a leading provider of staffing, IT, and workforce solutions with over 12,000 employees and 70 locations worldwide. As one of the largest IT staffing companies and the 2nd largest minority-owned staffing company in the U.S., Dexian was formed in 2023 through the merger of DISYS and Signature Consultants. Combining the best elements of its core companies, Dexian's platform connects talent, technology, and organizations to produce game-changing results that help everyone achieve their ambitions and goals.

Dexian's brands include Dexian DISYS, Dexian Signature Consultants, Dexian Government Solutions, Dexian Talent Development and Dexian IT Solutions. Visit https://dexian.com/ to learn more.

Dexian is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.