Research Associate, Plant Biology

We are looking for a full-time Research Associate, Plant Biology to execute plant physiology experiments and assays under both greenhouse and laboratory settings. The focus of these projects is to elucidate the mode of action of small molecules in signaling or regulating plant growth and/or nutrient utilization. Success in this role will require significant hands-on experience in plant growth and maintenance, collection of relevant in-planta information, and data management and analyses.

The Research Associate, Plant Biology reports to a Research Scientist on the ChemBio team. This role is based on-site, working in both our Emeryville, California laboratory and our Albany, California greenhouse space.

Compensation Target:

$75,440-82,000 base salary; equivalent for Research Associate II
Bonus target 10%

Bonuses are earned based on annual company and individual performance and are prorated based on start date. 

Sound reserves the ability to adjust the compensation range based on the final candidate’s experience, skillset, and geography. In addition to on target earnings, we offer above average equity grants for the industry as we believe that every employee should have a stake in the company’s growth. If you’re above this compensation target, we encourage you to reach out and discuss the entire package and opportunity before deciding not to pursue this position. 

Responsibilities

• Design, execute and maintain greenhouse and controlled environment experiments for the evaluation of the mode of action of small molecules on plant growth promotion 
• Collect plant phenotypic data by employing spectrophotometric sensors, imaging, and other automated technologies 
• Maintain and monitor plant health and growth including seeding, fertilizing, spraying, pest, and disease management
• Collect data, perform basic statistical analysis, and build reports 
• Keep abreast of relevant scientific literature for process improvement and workflow optimization

Targeted Skills & Experience

• BS degree in Plant Biology, Plant Science, or Agronomy with 5 years relevant experience or MS degree with 2 years relevant experience
• Extensive greenhouse and controlled environment experience (Industry experience preferred), especially growing corn, soy, and other crops of interest
• Basic knowledge of experimental design and statistical analysis
• Ability to work in a greenhouse setting with various temperature and humidity conditions
• Works independently and in a team setting, strong initiative, and results-orientation

This role demonstrates our core values by: 

• Boldness: Proactively execute new ideas and processes in the greenhouse and laboratory to efficiently evaluate plant growth-promoting effects of small molecules
• Ownership: Take responsibility for setting up, maintaining, collecting, and analyzing data for projects of different scope  
• Tenacity: Strongly dedicated to goal execution and exhibits flexibility in changing priorities
• Creativity: Innovatively look for ways to accelerate the development and efficiency of workflows to increase experimental cycles in the greenhouse and controlled environment