Research Associate

Genus PLC has an exciting opportunity. We are looking for a Research Associate to join our team.

The Research Associate is responsible for independently executing lab experiments to support the advancement of semen sexing technologies, analyzing data, and communicating results to the biosystems engineering team and leadership. The Research Associate will execute formal and informal standard operating procedures and/or experimental protocols that cover a variety of laboratory techniques, including sperm cell handling, flow cytometry, microscopy, DNA purification, and ddPCR.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively across functional teams, demonstrating strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality. They will apply critical thinking skills and maintain a continuous improvement mindset, with a strong desire to build subject matter expertise in laboratory capabilities and techniques. The candidate will be comfortable troubleshooting routine issues on laboratory instruments and ensuring reliable, accurate results.

In addition, the Research Associate will contribute to ideation and experimental design to drive process improvements, enhance efficiency, and expand laboratory capabilities. The individual will effectively manage time and competing priorities, ensuring timely execution of experiments, data analysis, and reporting while balancing both routine responsibilities and improvement initiatives.

The position is located in our lab in Windsor, WI. We are open to candidates who are willing to relocate to Wisconsin independently.

• Confidently execute Standard Operating Procedures, informal scientific protocols, and/or experimental test designs independently and analyze data to support research objectives.
• Communicate data findings to stakeholders and leadership, including presenting suggestions for improved efficiency and experimental design.
• Independently own and drive completion of test plans and contribute to innovation or ideation using laboratory experience.
• Evaluate and lead an opportunity to address a process improvement initiative to increase efficiency or expand/accelerate laboratory capabilities. Generate experimental designs and test plans with feedback from others.
• Proactively provide feedback and potential solutions to team members and test plan owners on observations made or challenges encountered during and after testing, both in written and in-person formats.
• Address issues/blockers and coordinate resolution to problems. Independently perform troubleshooting of common laboratory equipment.
• Take active steps to generate accurate and well-organized documentation for experiments, data summaries, and laboratory processes. Participate in drafting and/or revising laboratory SOPs.
• Collaborate cross-functionally as a key contributor by regularly sharing information with broader team.
• Mentor and train new team members. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of laboratory processes by actively participating in onboarding training.
• Manage weekly activities by autonomously delivering tasks based on timeline and communicating status updates. Volunteer unallocated downtime to assist colleagues with lab work, data analysis, etc.
• Wear appropriate PPE, promote a strong safety culture and follow all safety policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Maintain productivity and flexibility as project or business priorities shift.
• Uphold the Genus core values, mission and vision.
• Position may require work responsibilities outside of normal business hours.
• Perform other projects and responsibilities as assigned.

Basic Qualifications: (required)

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM field with a minimum of 3-4 years of relevant laboratory experience OR an associate's degree in a STEM field with a minimum of 5 years of relevant laboratory experience, including:
  • general lab processes and techniques (e.g. Pipetting, centrifugation, etc.)
  • cell handling, DNA purification, and PCR
• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Ability to organize data, use data analysis software (like Microsoft Excel) and knowledge of basic statistics
• Ability to manage experimental planning and laboratory activities concurrently with diligence and attention to detail
• Authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship

Preferred Qualifications:

• Undergraduate research background.
• Experience performing ddPCR, flow cytometry, and/or fluorescence microscopy.
• Experience using Data Analysis and Statistical software (like Origin Lab) to visualize and graph data
• Experience independently leading experimental design, writing protocols, and executing experiments.

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Genus is an agricultural biotechnology pioneer. We are a global FTSE 250 company, headquartered in the UK, and listed on the London Stock Exchange. Genus PLC has a presence in over 70 countries and a global workforce of over 3,000 employees and growing. We are a worldwide leader in porcine and bovine animal genetics, partnering with farmers to transform how we nourish the world – a mission that is important to a sustainable future.

Our vision is clear: Pioneering animal genetic improvement to help nourish the world.

At Genus we offer a competitive salary. Benefits include health, dental, vision, FSA/HSA, long and short-term disability, 401K, tuition reimbursement, paid holidays and ETO (employee time off). This position will have opportunity for growth.

Genus is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. Genus prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Genus conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.

Genus plc will never ask you to provide fees or payment for computer, software, or other equipment or supplies during the recruitment and/or onboarding process. If you have any questions about your individual application, please contact the Genus Talent Acquisition team at recruiting@genusplc.com.