Scientist I/II - Microbial Assay Development

Company Description:

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of the soil microbiome, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in agriculture. Our first commercial product harnesses the power of naturally-occurring microbes to provide nutrients to crops. We are dedicated to providing new sustainable ways for farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the world’s growing population. Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on OneZero or CNN.

Position: Scientist I/II - Microbial Assay Development, Berkeley CA

Strain Optimization team at Pivot Bio is looking for a dynamic, curious, and self-motivated team member to develop field-relevant assays for advancing soil bacteria that will lead to more sustainable agricultural practices. This individual will be an integral member of our team helping us design assays that can predict microbial performance within complex and dynamic settings and develop selection strategies to advance promising microbes to field trials in a fast-paced, collaborative, and supportive startup environment.

The ideal candidate possesses a broad knowledge of molecular biology and microbial physiology, a strong understanding of biochemistry, and great communication and cross-team collaboration skills. Candidates with an understanding of plant-microbe interactions and dynamics of complex microbial communities are strongly encouraged to apply!

Responsibilities:

• Study and understand the microbial regulatory and metabolic pathways as they relate to plant interaction and performance in the rhizosphere.
• Design and help engineer non-model microbial organisms using established SOPs.
• Develop in vitro and in planta assays and selection strategies for advancing microbes in collaboration with Analytics and Plant teams.
• Keep abreast of the current literature, implement novel, hypothesis-driven projects.
• Communicate plans, results, and conclusions to diverse audiences both verbally and in writing.

Qualifications and Experience

• PhD in molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, synthetic biology, biological engineering, or another related field with 2+ additional years of research experience or equivalent related experience.
• A proven command of basic molecular biology and strain engineering techniques and strong understanding of bacterial growth and metabolism.
• Experience in developing novel assays and employing various equipment (Flow cytometry, microscopy, plate readers, HPLC) to test microbial performance.
• Familiarity with Next-Gen sequencing applications to analyze various types of DNA and RNA samples.
• Advanced computer skills including data capture/visualization as well as management and statistical analysis of complex data sets.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in mentoring and supervising junior scientists.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Must be authorized to work in the United States.

What we offer:

• Competitive package in a disruptive startup
• Stock options
• Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums
• Life, Short Term and Long Term Disability policies
• Employee Assistance Program with free referrals and discounts
• 401(k) plan, 3% Match
• Commuter benefits
• Annual Training & Development support
• Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule
• Exciting opportunity to work with a talented and fun team