Research Scientist I, Plant Pathologist

Summary:

The Plant Pathologist will provide day-to-day leadership in the design, planning, execution, analysis, and presentation of research on plant–microbe interactions and biological crop inputs, working within interdisciplinary teams of scientists. This role will also help implement novel molecular techniques and contribute to discovery and development efforts for biopesticides and biostimulants. We're looking for someone who takes initiative and brings creative, cutting-edge thinking to research questions.

Responsibilities

Core Responsibilities:

• Design and execute bioassay experiments to advance understanding of plant-microbe interactions, at both small scale (lab) and large scale (greenhouse and field)

• Develop, implement, and train others in fungal, oomycete, and bacterial pathosystems for screening new formulations

• Work with diverse microbial plant pathogens, with a focus on fungal and oomycete pathogens such as Botrytis and Bremia

• Apply experimental design optimized for downstream molecular work

• Collaborate and communicate effectively within and across teams, supporting a small R&D group where agility between projects is essential

Good to Have:

• Experience with DNA and RNA extractions from bacterial, fungal, plant, and insect tissues, including difficult-to-extract sample types

• Sample analysis via PCR, gel electrophoresis, and qPCR

• Microbial identification using sequencing or traditional methods

• General microbiology and molecular biology techniques

• Use and maintenance of standard molecular biology equipment

Team & Project Contribution:

• Maintain microbial cultures and keep the lab clean and organized

• Prepare test materials and assist other departments with bioassays and sample analysis

• Stay current with relevant literature and contribute novel ideas for future research

• Document work to a high standard of completeness and accuracy

• Supervise interns or junior scientists in data generation and collection

• Contribute to research team discussions, planning, and evaluation of results

• Participate in regular team and long-term project planning

• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Education:

• Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology or a related field

Experience:

• 3+ years of industry R&D experience with plant disease bioassays, including experimental design, data analysis, and presentation of results

Skills & Knowledge:

• Strong knowledge of plant pathology, microbiology, and molecular biology

• Proficiency with statistics, including ANOVA and non-linear regression

• Experience with MS Office and statistical software such as JMP or R

• Strong communication skills for working with scientists across diverse backgrounds and specializations

• Ability to work independently and make day-to-day decisions

• Ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities and timelines

• High attention to detail, with comfort working across interdisciplinary project teams

• Comfort working in greenhouse and lab settings that may involve soil, dust, and plant material

Working Conditions

• Primarily lab- and greenhouse-based, with extended periods at a desk and computer

• Valid driver's license  for occasional travel between work sites (mileage compensated)

• May be  to obtain and maintain a Qualified Applicator License/Certificate from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation

COMPENSATION:

• ProFarm offers a comprehensive benefits package including a health plan, medical and dental coverage, life insurance coverage, long term disability and a flexible spending account for dependent care and/or medical expenses. 

• The above is a list of the essential duties and responsibilities for this position. This list is not all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned. This job description may be modified as needed.

• ProFarm is an equal-opportunity employer. A pre-employment background check will be required.