Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, is currently seeking a Senior Research Associate in Wilmington, DE to join a team committed to developing and applying bioassays for soybean disease resistance screening. The successful candidate will have training in disease bioassay development, with a background in plant pathology, microbiology or molecular biology, and the ability to learn and develop new techniques.

• Conduct bioassays for disease resistance on breeding lines and transgenic plants;
• Follow appropriate procedures for handling regulated plant material and pathogens;
• Assist with troubleshooting to solve issues inherent to bioassay development and application;
• Preserve and characterize isolates of fungal pathogens using methods including phenotypic and molecular assays;
• Collaborate with scientists within the group to streamline processes and fulfill needs;
• Record and analyze experimental data;
• Effectively synthesize and communicate results.

• A Bachelor’s degree in plant pathology, microbiology or molecular biology with 4 years or more of research experience, or a Master’s degree in plant pathology, microbiology or molecular biology with 2 years or more of research experience is required. 
• Practical knowledge of plant pathogens and pathology techniques is required.
• Experience of disease bioassay development and knowledge of plant-pathogen interactions are highly desirable.
• Practical knowledge of basic molecular biology techniques (DNA extraction, manipulation and PCR) is required.
• Experience of the development and use of molecular markers is preferred.
• Proficiency on standard computer software including MSOffice, image analysis and databases and the ability to quickly master new software.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, self-motivation and adaptability to change.
• Demonstrate skill to work effectively on multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.