Research Associate I (GT)

Job Description

Job Description

About Confluence Genetics  
Confluence Genetics develops soybean technologies and varieties that create value from farm-gate to feed, food and fuel end-markets by unlocking the natural genetic diversity of plants. The Company leverages their proprietary CropOS™ machine learning platform with proprietary germplasm data and speed breeding technologies in our Crop Accelerator facility to drastically accelerate and simplify the product development process. This platform allows for cost-effective and more efficient ways to analyze and make improvements in plant genetics. Confluence Genetics brings a unique and holistic approach to our product and platform development, as we span a broader workflow involving trait and seed development, genome editing, and breeding all the way to creating better ingredients and varieties that tap a strong customer demand. More information can be found online at 

Our Purpose and Core Values 

Our Core Values are a set of common principles we share that are fundamental to our company's identity. Real. Inspired!

• Real. We show up with honesty, accountability, and purpose. We lead with integrity and speak with candor, knowing that trust and transparency drive performance. We challenge each other respectfully and stay grounded in what matters—our shared mission and one another.

• Inspired!We’re driven by possibility and energized by progress. With open minds and a bold spirit, we embrace change, take smart risks, and push boundaries. We stay curious, creative, and connected—to each other, our partners, and the future we’re building together.

Department Overview

The CropOS and Discovery Department leads the development of Confluence Genetics' crop design platform, CropOS™ which combines machine learning and big data with advanced breeding methods, genome editing and plant biology to simplify and accelerate the product development process. The team partners with the Product Design & Product Development teams to build a portfolio of offerings (commercial product or platform related) that meet the needs of Confluence Genetics' business units.

Position Summary

The Research Associate I  will be primarily responsible for executing genotyping lab work and conducting high quality experiments in molecular biology, microbiology, and plant science. [EJ1] The successful candidate will thrive in a team environment and be able to follow established protocols explicitly and suggest improvements. 

You Will:

• Work on multiple lab workflows (NGS, Trait Marker PCR, GE Screening) 
• Execute DNA extractions and genotyping assays
• Perform daily and weekly preventative maintenance 
• Communicate effectively with the Genotyping Production team in written and visual formats
• Comfortable in a dynamic, fast-paced lab environment
• Perform other duties as assigned

You Have:

(Competencies and Qualifications)

Education

• Bachelor’s in Plant Biology, Genetics, Life Science, or related field  

Experience

• 1-2 years' relevant experience 
• Experienced with molecular techniques (e.g. DNA extraction, NGS library preparation, qPCR)
• Previous experience with plant genetics in crop or model species; including but not limited to agrobacterium, transient assays, genotyping, greenhouse/growth chamber testing (preferred)

Software/Skillset

• Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint 
• Experience with DNA vector design software, genome sequence databases, and basic bioinformatics tools (preferred)   

Other

• Attention to detail  
• Collaborative  
• Ability to focus and work independently with some direction
• Flexible with working hours (to include shift schedules, weekends and/or holidays)
  
  

We have a Total Rewards Package at Confluence Genetics that consists of more than just your paycheck. Total Rewards at Confluence Genetics covers Pay (salary and bonus), Health (employer benefit contributions) and Wealth (investments). Some of the perks include:

• A Collaborative Environment 
• A flexible PTO program with a focus on work/life balance 
• Competitive medical, dental and vision benefits
• Retirement savings plan with a company match
• Education reimbursement 
• PAID parental leave 
• And more….