Controlled Environment Research, Development Lead

Greenlight Biosciences is developing cutting-edge RNA technologies that address global challenges in food security, pollinator safety, and human health. GreenLight is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Research Scientist to join our Plant Health Controlled Environment Research team. In this role, you will be integrally involved in discovery and development of RNA-based biopesticides for crop protection. 

The ideal candidate will have a broad background in plant protection with experience in developing on-plant assays to screen biopesticides early in the discovery pipeline for control of a wide range of plant fungal and insect pests. Experience working with fungal plant pathogens, an in-depth knowledge of fungal biology, inoculation and culturing techniques, and methods for disease rating is required. Additional work with agriculturally relevant insect pests including experience with rearing or handling insects for on-plant experiments, knowledge of life cycles and industry competitor products is highly desirable.

Strong technical, organizational, and communication skills are essential as well as experience managing and leading developing scientists. Knowledge of fungal RNA interference mechanisms is a plus.  Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interface and collaborate with other discovery and development functions are essential, with the ability to maintain a commitment to scientific excellence and high-quality of work in a fast-paced company. 

Responsibilities:

• Drive the development, optimization, and implementation of greenhouse and growth chamber assays for product candidates
• Complete requests from the development team including rate ranging, tank mixes, and adjuvant evaluations
• Ability to design experiments and analyze data using appropriate statistical software to answer specific research questions
• Contribute to development of innovative methods and/or new technologies to speed up and/or improve on-plant assays required for novel fungicide and insecticide development
• Recommend resource allocations and troubleshoot challenges
• Serve as a subject matter expert in fungal biology, plant pathology, entomology, and/or plant-pest interactions
• Mentor, coach, challenge, and develop controlled environment research team members to reach their full potential
• Work collaboratively with members of the plant health leadership team including functional and category heads, and the product development group to meet project goals and milestones
• Ensure safe laboratory and greenhouse operations and a safety-focused work culture
• Support and deliver on the corporate values, objectives, and goals as a scientific leader and role model at GreenLight

Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. in plant pathology, mycology, or related field, ideally with substantial experience in the areas of fungicide research; candidates experienced in working with a diverse range of fungal pathogens preferred or a M.S. with 8+ years industry experience.
• Experience developing and optimizing on-plant assays for screening and validation of fungicides, insecticides, or herbicides in controlled environments
• Solid knowledge of the relevant academic research literature and crop protection industry, especially in fungicide or insecticide discovery and development
• Results-oriented with a can-do attitude and a passion for developing cutting-edge technology
• Previous experience and interest in leading and developing a team of scientists
• Experience effectively managing multiple projects with appropriate attention to detail and communication of project progress, deviations, conclusions and recommended next steps to stakeholders in a clear and timely fashion

• Demonstrated proficiency in statistical based experimental design and analysis of experimental data

• Proficiency in microbial culture and maintenance of diverse plant pathogenic fungi as an inoculum source
• Familiarity with USDA permitting requirements
• Experience in discovery of new crop protection products through a commercial screening program provides a distinct advantage