Research Associate I, Microbial Sourcing

Since 2014, Indigo has questioned agriculture's full value chain to improve grower profitability, environmental sustainability, and consumer health. The company’s scientific discoveries and digital innovations have amplified new value from soil to sale, benefiting tens of thousands of growers across millions of acres. Indigo is also the company behind Indigo Carbon, - a program that pays growers to reduce on-farm emissions, remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and improve soil health. In 2019, Indigo was ranked #1 on CNBC’s Disruptor 50 list, placing again among the top three in 2020. Headquartered in Boston, MA, Indigo has additional offices in Memphis, TN; Research Triangle Park, NC; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Basel, Switzerland; and São Paulo, Brazil.

Indigo is developing microbiome-based agricultural solutions to improve crop yields with sustainable products derived from plant microbiomes. The role of Research Associate I, Microbial Sourcing will contribute to the microbial core team, with the primary objective of isolation and identification of diverse bacterial and fungal endophytes, and to assist with Molecular Biology associated with whole genome sequencing. 

Responsibilities:

• Cultivation and purification of bacterial and fungal strains from plant samples
• DNA extractions, PCR, and Sanger sequencing from pure cultures
• Processing of microbial and plant samples for DNA extraction, upstream of NGS
• Media preparation and completion of general laboratory tasks
• Assist with implementing solutions for process improvements
• Data capture and analysis

Key Competencies:

• Ability to work as a team player towards shared goals
• Proficient in aseptic technique; previous experience with preparation of bacterial growth media
• Familiarity with basic microbiology and molecular biology; has experience processing and tracking a large volume of samples
• A motivated learner with a great attention to detail
• Organized, approachable and energetic
• Self-sufficient and with minimal supervision, but always within the expectations of and parameters set by their supervisors
• Possesses strong interpersonal and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• BS and 0-2 years industrial or academic experience in microbiology, or an Associates Degree in relevant discipline with 2+ years of experience
• Mastery of aseptic technique
• Experience with data management and/or basic coding a plus
• Team oriented, with excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, start-up environment

Indigo is committed to living our values, specifically “creating a work environment where everyone feels respected, connected, and has opportunities to learn and grow.” As part of living our values, we strive to create a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone feels they can be themselves and has an equal opportunity of succeeding