Seed Physiology Assistant Scientist

Location: Salinas, CA

WORKING TITLE: Seed Physiology Assistant Scientist
Company: Sakata Seed America
LOCATION: Salinas
CLASSIFICATION: Exempt
REPORTS TO: Physiology Manager
 

JOB SUMMARY: Carrying out seed physiology research projects, perform experiments in lab, greenhouse and fields, record and analyze results, in order to extensively and progressively improve seed quality and yield at Sakata Seed America.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Primary responsibility includes the day-to-day operation of laboratory, greenhouse and field experiments to address the seed quality and yield issues, maintenance of seed physiology laboratory, data analysis of experiment, and documentation of protocol and research results.
• This intermediate level technical position will be responsible for conducting hands on laboratory, greenhouse and field experiments of seed physiology research projects in an organized and timely manner, as requested by QA, R&D, Marketing, Production and Operation Departments.
• Accountable for the maintenance of the research laboratory, including the incubator, equipment, chemical storage and sample preparative areas, ensuring a very safe working environment.
• Compilation and statistical analysis of experimental results, contribution to the technical reports of seed physiology research;
• To supervise and train interns and temporal helpers in laboratory operation procedures and the operation of equipment in the laboratory.
• To document the chemical inventory and manage the seed samples and lab supplies;
• Any other seed biology duties as may be reasonable required by the company, QA Manager or Physiology Manager.
• Provide assistance for Seed Vigor Testing when requested.

Seed Physiology Assistant Scientist
• Share watering duties with other peers during weekend and holidays at Salinas Research Station.
• The individual will work primarily in a laboratory environment, with some greenhouse and field work.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:
• Education and training in plant science.
• Must be able to perform job activities accurately and efficiently. Attention to detail.
• Must be comfortable working in an agricultural environment; ie. with agricultural chemicals and in environments where temperatures may be hot or cold
• Must have good communication skills
• Must be willing to work alone and as part of a team
• Must be self-motivated and work with minimum supervision
• Must be receptive to changing work demands, techniques, or approaches and must have the ability to adapt quickly to such circumstances
• Must have the ability to do repetitious work in a greenhouse or at a laboratory bench for 2 to 3 hours without interruption

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
• BS in plant science, biology or related major is required. MS preferred.

EXPERIENCE AND BACKGROUND:
• Computer literacy and data analysis skills.
• Good verbal and oral communication skills in English
• Minimum two years’ working experience in lab setting of seed or biotechnology industry.

APPLICATION:
Please send resume and cover letter to xduan@sakata.com