Overview

This person will implement and manage a high-throughput maize genotyping lab and will coordinate lab personnel, evaluate DNA isolation and genotyping technology, manage tissue culture/embryo rescue efforts, procure instrumentation and consumables as well as implement effective workplace safety and quality assurance measures.  

As a member of the Beck’s Family of employees, all full-time employees are eligible for a generous benefits package:

  • Health benefits including two medical plan options and company HSA contributions, dental, vision, employer paid life/AD&D for you and your dependents, disability insurance, and access to an onsite Nurse Practitioner
  • 401k plan match & company sponsored pension plan and access to a Financial Advisor to help you manage your retirement savings
  • Paid time off, Paid Holidays, Wellness Programs, & Corporate Discounts
  • Company Christmas Party, Free Lunch, $200 Merchandise Allowance, & Much More

 

Responsibilities

  • Interact cooperatively with corn breeding and trait conversion staff to facilitate an efficient and effective marker assisted breeding program.
  • Develop and manage full and part-time laboratory technicians.
  • Evaluate new DNA isolation, genotyping, sequencing, and automation technology to meet our growing need for genetic data.
  • Select and optimize SNP’s for our custom genotyping arrays to ensure maximum informative value per data point.
  • Ensure laboratory instrumentation is maintained and functioning properly.
  • Develop, schedule and manage efficient work flow to accurately genotype a high volume of samples in a timely manner.
  • Implement effective quality assurance program to ensure accurate genotyping.
  • Oversee information management system and dissemination of data to end-users.
  • Manage and document the embryo rescue effort.
  • Consult with breeders on genomic selection and similar needs, including serving as a main contact for external genomic selection software systems.
  • Anticipate and propose technological updates and capital needs well in advance.
  • Assist directly with lab efforts as needed.
  • Implement an effective workplace safety program.
  • Interact cooperatively with other personnel from external firms in which Beck’s has a relationship.
  • Perform other related duties as may be required by the Breeding Manager.

 

Job Requirements

 Education and training:

  • Preferred PhD in plant breeding, genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry (or related discipline)
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and insurable driving record as determined by Beck’s automobile insurance policy.

Technical Knowledge:

  • Thorough understanding of tissue culture, DNA chemistry, molecular markers (e.g. SNP’s) as well as DNA isolation and genotyping technology.
  • Understanding of the use of molecular markers in plant breeding including areas such as genomic selection and marker-assisted backcrossing.
  • Excellent computer and current software skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Possess positive attitude.
  • Ability to establish priorities, work independently, work as a team member, and proceed with objectives without supervision.

Experience:

  • At least five (5) years of experience in a molecular marker lab or related function.
  • Experience with high throughput technology and LIMS software is highly desirable, but not required.

** In an effort to provide a safer, drug-free workplace for employees, all full-time applicants to whom offers of employment are made must submit to a drug test and background check, subject to applicable local, state, or federal laws or regulations. Employment at Beck’s is contingent upon passing these pre-employment screenings.

Tagged as: MID LEVEL, SENIOR LEVEL

Apply for job