Scientist – Protoplast Regeneration
Company DescriptionSolis Agrosciences is the trusted partner for high-quality AgTech research services. We generate gene-edited and transgenic crops, plant phenotype and efficacy data, and individually tailored research solutions for our startup and corporate customers. Solis’ highly trained and industry-experienced scientists operate in state-of-the-art facilities in the 39 North Ag Biotech district of St. Louis, Missouri.Position Summary:We are seeking an expert in plant protoplasts and gene-editing technologies to join our Capability Development team. As a Scientist, you will work primarily at the bench, collaborating closely with transformation, plant growth, and molecular biology specialists in an energetic, cross-functional environment. This role requires a balance of innovation and practical focus; you will develop new protocols, manage project timelines, mentor fellow researchers, and provide regular scientific updates and reports.Tasks and Responsibilities:• Execute on projects including protoplast isolation, transfection, and regeneration to meet project deliverables• Optimize and refine protocols by mining scientific literature and designing strategic experiments to increase efficiencies and expand service capabilities• Represent Solis Agrosciences as a technical subject matter expert during client interactions to share experimental data and provide professional project updates• Attend conferences and develop connections to stay at the forefront of gene editing and crop improvement technologies• Provide technical guidance and training to fellow researchers, contributing to a high-performing, knowledge-sharing laboratory culture.• Assist with other laboratory tasks as needed such as tissue culture, Agrobacterium-based transformation, and molecular analysis• Communicate research progress and results regularly, clearly, and in an actionable manner toteam members and company leadership• Maintain detailed and organized records of project data and other materials as needed, includinginventories of seeds, cultures, plants and key experimental metrics• Contribute to routine laboratory cleanliness and organization; follow all laboratory safety andcompliance protocolsRequired Qualifications:• Doctorate degree in a relevant field (Plant Biology, Plant Science, Cell Biology, Biology, Biotechnology, etc.) or equivalent skill-level and amount of scientific experience• Direct, hands-on experience with the isolating and regenerating protoplasts• Direct, hands-on experience with tissue culture and plant transformation techniques• Experience creating strategic project plans and timelines, demonstrating the ability to deliver against these objectives • Independent self-starter able to perform under tight timelines in a fast-moving startup atmosphere• Highly agile and able to multitask, change course or take on new assignments as needed to meettimelines and deliver high quality results• Excellent planner, organizer, critical thinker, and problem solver to drive successful outcomes• Ability to work in an in-person role in St. Louis, MOPreferred Qualifications:• Protoplast regeneration experience in multiple crops (especially challenging ones)• Familiarity with gene-editing in plants• Experience with specialty-crop transformation• Familiarity with Benchling software