Plant Reproduction Innovator (3 scientist positions available)

Are you a passionate scientist with a deep appreciation for the critical role that plants play in our world? PowerPollen is seeking THREE Plant Reproduction Innovators to join our team and help advance our understanding of the vital reproductive biology processes that drive plant growth and productivity.

As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to investigate the complex reproductive biology of plants, including the factors that contribute to successful pollination and seed development. Your work will directly impact the agricultural industry by helping to improve crop yields and support sustainable food production.

At PowerPollen, we understand the crucial importance of plants in our ecosystem and are committed to advancing our knowledge of plant reproductive biology through innovative research and development. You will have the chance to work alongside a team of experienced scientists and engineers who share your passion for plants and are dedicated to making a positive impact on the world.

We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages, as well as ongoing opportunities for professional growth and development. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, you will have the resources you need to push the boundaries of what is possible in your field and make meaningful contributions to our understanding of plant biology.

If you are a driven and dedicated scientist with a passion for the vital role of plants in our world, we invite you to apply for a scientist position with PowerPollen today. Join us and be part of a team that is making a real difference in the world.

General Responsibilities:

As a scientist at PowerPollen, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the field of plant reproductive biology, working alongside a highly motivated and collaborative team. We are committed to advancing sustainable agriculture and improving food security through innovative research, and we are looking for individuals who share our passion and commitment to this mission.

• Design and execute research protocols that lead to new discoveries or enhance existing knowledge in plant reproductive physiology and pollen preservation technologies at PowerPollen®.
• Develop and implement protocols to advance PowerPollen’s knowledge of plant reproductive physiology and pollen preservation technologies, leveraging relevant scientific literature and recent technical advances in the field.
• Prepare research reports using appropriate statistical analyses and communicate findings to the team and external partners.
• Publish scientific advancements and novel discoveries in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at conferences.
• Provide insights, lessons learned, enhancements, and solutions to PowerPollen’s research program through continuous evaluation and improvement of experimental designs and techniques.
• Promote and adhere to safety protocols, and require other team members to do the same.

People Leadership Responsibilities:

At PowerPollen, we recognize that our people are our greatest asset, and we are committed to investing in their development and growth. As a scientist in our Biology Discovery Team, you will have the opportunity to not only advance your own skills and knowledge but also contribute to the development of others. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about making a difference and are excited about the opportunity to lead and collaborate with a diverse and dynamic team.

• Provide leadership and mentorship to junior team members and collaborators to ensure that they are supported, engaged, and growing in their roles.
• Supervise the work efforts of others on the Biology Discovery Team or other internal collaborators assigned to support biology research, as required.
• Collaborate with other internal teams to advance related PowerPollen® technologies and gain insights applicable to assigned research efforts.
• Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages knowledge sharing, open communication, and constructive feedback.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging and supporting team members to develop new skills and enhance their knowledge.

Laboratory & Field Responsibilities

• Engage in cutting-edge scientific research and development related to the PowerPollen® pollen management program(s).
• Lead experiment planning and planting strategy for field activities, contributing to the advancement of plant reproductive physiology and pollen preservation technologies.
• Participate in establishing and conducting greenhouse and field trials, gaining valuable hands-on experience in crop management and optimization.
• Collaborate cross functionally within the Biology Discovery Team on complex projects, leveraging diverse perspectives and expertise to solve challenging problems.
• Assure meticulous record-keeping of activities, data summaries, and reports, contributing to the generation of novel discoveries and research publications.

Required

• PhD in the field of life sciences. MS with 3-5 years of research experience will be considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

PowerPollen is seeking candidates with a genuine interest in contributing to our cutting-edge research in plant physiology, cellular biology, and microbiology.

We are seeking candidates with demonstrated experience in lab and field experimental design, with expertise in molecular, metabolic, and/or biochemical techniques. Candidates should have experience with plant cell analytical methods such as flow cytometry, mass spec, single cell viability testing and enzyme activity quantification.

Candidates should also possess excellent writing skills, with a proven ability to publish research discoveries in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Proficiency in statistics/graphing software for data analysis and presentation is essential, as is the ability to work both independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team or with external partners.

Additionally, candidates should possess strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask, problem-solve, prioritize assignments, and adjust priorities to meet goals in a fast-paced environment. Previous experience overseeing teams, crews including employees and contracted labor is highly desirable.

Candidates with mechanical aptitude for making instrument adjustments and identifying maintenance issues that require external support will be highly valued. Excellent oral communication skills, including the ability to train others and work with untrained personnel, are essential. Fluency in English (Spanish beneficial) in verbal and written form is required.

Working Conditions

This position will work in varying conditions including typical laboratory settings to typical in-season agricultural environments.  This includes working in crop fields when weather conditions can be hot/humid with insects present. Long periods of standing/walking may be required.  The incumbent should be capable of working in a research environment that includes indoor lab conditions and outdoor agricultural conditions throughout the year.

Incumbents can expect to spend significant periods utilizing fine motor movement instruments (microscopes, instruments, etc.) as well as standard computing equipment (laptops, smartphones, etc.). Working some holidays and weekends may be required based on plant development and project demands.  Travel away from the Ames, IA research site (domestic and international) up to 30% time may be required to oversee and execute the year-round experimentation program.

Physical Requirements

The position involves physical activity including lifting objects up to 50 pounds, walking on uneven terrain, ability to tolerate heat and humidity typical of local field conditions, with extended hours that will vary with crop development in different locales.  Extended periods sitting and viewing computer screen monitors and standing at lab facilities.

All applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance.

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).