We are looking for a full-time Sr. Research Associate, Plant Biology to develop plant physiology experiments and assays under both greenhouse and laboratory settings. This individual will be responsible for in-planta screening and evaluation of small molecules in signaling or regulating plant growth and/or nutrient utilization. Success in this role will require hands-on experience in plant growth and maintenance, development of in-planta nutrient assays, collection and evaluation of plant phenotype data. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced research associate to be a part of a screening pipeline and to take on the responsibility of designing experiments, streamlining workflows, and optimizing screening activities.

The Sr. Research Associate, Plant Biology reports to a Research Scientist on the Plant Physiology team. This role is based on-site, working in our Emeryville, California laboratory.

Compensation Target:

$92,000 to $102,000 base salary, plus 10% bonus target.

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 controlled environment and greenhouse experiments for the evaluation of the mode of action of small molecules on plant growth promotion
• Collect plant phenotypic data by employing spectrophotometeric sensors, imaging, and other automated technologies
• Develop in-vitro and/or in-planta nutrient assays to understand plant-microbe interactions
• Monitor plant health and growth
• Collect data, perform 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 2-5 years experience
• Extensive greenhouse and controlled environment experience, especially growing corn, soy, and other crops of interest
• Must be able to work with chemicals, pesticides, and other irritating substances and wear personal protective equipment when necessary and/or required
• Knowledge of greenhouse and growth chamber systems including irrigation, heating/cooling, lighting, electrical and mechanical systems
• Ability to work in greenhouse conditions of high temperature, humidity, light, etc.; lift and carry at least 50 lb; stand/walk for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks that may be physically demanding
• Exceptional problem-solving and troubleshooting skills; high attention to detail, excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge in experimental design and statistical analysis
• Knowledge of plant diseases and pest management practices

This role demonstrates our core values by:

• Boldness: Proactively execute new ideas and streamline processes in the greenhouse and laboratory to efficiently evaluate plant growth promoting effects of small molecules
• Ownership: Take responsibility for setting up, maintaining, collecting & analyzing data for projects of different scope
• Tenacity: Strong commitment to achieving goals and looks for ways to overcome obstacles in experimental execution
• Creativity: Innovatively look for ways to accelerate the development and efficiency of workflows to increase experimental cycles and accommodate higher plant volumes in the greenhouse and controlled environment settings