What are the responsibilities and job description for the Repository Production Scientist position at Qualterra?
Overview
The world is in a dire situation. By 2050, there will be 10 billion people on the planet to feed with less farmland available than ever before. We need to develop solutions that maximize agricultural productivity while capturing carbon and regenerating soils. Qualterra is on the front lines for delivering such solutions.
As we approach our next level of company growth, we are looking for passionate teammates that bring experience and insights to help us drive the agricultural and sustainability transformations we seek.
If this is you, please consider applying today.
Responsibilities
The Repository Production Scientist plays a key role in optimizing tissue culture propagation protocols and expanding our project pipeline. This position focuses on overseeing the Repository program, refining existing methods, and developing protocols for new crops. Additionally, the Repository Production Scientist will manage repository staff across our multiple facilities, ensuring efficient operations and high-quality plant production.
- Scheduling sourcing of clean plant material from various sources such as National Clean Plant Network, timely initiation and bulking up of the desired materials.
- Lead specialized tissue culture, micropropagation, and initiation activities, applying advanced scientific knowledge.
- Contribute to the development and optimization of tissue culture media formulations and propagation techniques to drive innovation.
- Design, coordinate, and implement research experiments for specific crops and customer projects.
- Communicate project updates and research findings effectively with the CSO and Director of Plant Production.
- Collaborate with the Production Team to execute strategic initiatives.
- Oversee the establishment, management, and staffing of the TC laboratory in Mabton, WA, including training and supervising technicians. Requires frequent travel to Mabton, WA.
- Manage the repository lab and plant populations in Pullman, WA, including staff oversight.
- Stay current with advancements in plant tissue culture and related scientific literature.
- Maintain and oversee the internal production database to ensure accurate data tracking and reporting.
Minimum Requirements:
- Ph.D. in plant biology, horticulture, plant physiology, or a related field, OR 10 years of progressive experience and combined degreed education in plant tissue culture and micropropagation.
Experience & Skills:
- Experience with coding, particularly SQL, is a plus.
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to apply scientific principles and deductive reasoning.
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects and lead technical teams to successful execution.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, adaptable for diverse audiences.
- Willingness to learn and implement new methodologies in response to evolving research priorities
Work Location: Onsite in Pullman, WA with regular (25%) travel to Qualterra facilities.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $70,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
Ability to Commute:
- Pullman, WA 99163 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Pullman, WA 99163: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $70,000 - $95,000
