Summary:

Magnum Seeds is looking for a motivated scientist with experience in molecular plant breeding background to work in our molecular marker laboratory. This position will be involved in developing molecular markers and their applications, with strong emphasis on molecular marker assisted breeding, hybridity purity and variety identification testing, as well as, molecular mapping and DNA Fingerprinting, trait detection and trait analysis in our efforts to breed and sell hybrid vegetable seeds.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Assist Director of Plant Pathology & Molecular biology in:

• Development of molecular markers with vigorous and innovative research strategies using molecular biology tools, including plant based genomics and genetics.
• Application of molecular markers for marker-assisted selection, hybrid purity and variety identification testing in high through-put platforms by using PCR-based DNA markers that include agarose gel markers and SNP markers, as well as other marker platforms.
• Analysis, documentation, and filing research and QA data.
• Coordination and management of daily operations of the molecular marker laboratory, including inventory checking and supply ordering.
• Coordination with breeders/breeder assistants, QA and sale departments to prioritize all activities to ensure data delivery according to deadlines.
• Coordinate molecular marker testing and quality assurance, ensuring that all activities in the molecular marker laboratory are in compliance with company Quality Assurance goals, Health & Safety guidelines and with standard State and Federal regulations.
• Supervise lab technicians.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Good knowledge on marker development, MAS, QTL mapping, plant breeding, and various marker systems.
• Physically capable of handling the necessary field, greenhouse and laboratory requirements of the position.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, organized, and committed. Must be a quick learner and possess intellectual flexibility to adjust activities to work as part of a team to accomplish company objectives.

Education/Experience:

• M.S. or Ph.D. degree in Molecular Biology/ Biotechnology or other related areas.
• Prior experience in job related activities is a plus.

Knowledge/Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of general agricultural practice, applied molecular biology and plant pathology.
• Familiarity with both Microsoft Office programs and web-based tools.
• Excellent oral and written communication is a must.
• Ability to travel 3-5 weeks per year, when needed.

To apply:

Please provide cover letter, resume, references and unofficial transcript to maria.villagomez@magnumseeds.com