Research Associate I - Duguma Lab

The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center seeks a highly motivated Research Associate I to join the Optimum Teff project, focused on improving teff (Eragrostis tef) through genome editing to reduce lodging and grain shattering and enhance yield potential. The successful candidate will support teff genetic transformation, genome editing, molecular characterization, and phenotypic evaluation of edited plants. The position is part of the Optimum Teff project at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in collaboration with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR). The successful candidate will work in the Duguma Lab.

Responsibilities:

• Perform teff genetic transformation, tissue culture, plant regeneration, and maintenance of transformed plants.
• Assist in designing and developing CRISPR-based genome-editing constructs.
• Conduct molecular characterization of edited plants using PCR, sequencing, and related techniques.
• Maintain and evaluate edited plants in growth chambers, greenhouses, and field experiments.
• Collect, analyze, organize, and maintain experimental data and research records.
• Prepare regular progress reports and communicate results to supervisors and project collaborators.
• Support laboratory operations and collaborative research activities.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Hands-on experience in plant genetic transformation and tissue culture.
• Working knowledge of molecular biology techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR, and cloning.
• Strong organizational, data management, and written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to conduct experiments independently with minimal supervision and while working effectively as part of a collaborative team.
• Familiarity with CRISPR/Cas genome editing and molecular characterization of edited plants.
• Basic bioinformatics skills, including sequence analysis and guide RNA design.
• Live the Danforth Center values: Collaboration, Diversity & Inclusion, Innovation, Integrity & Respect, Environmental Sustainability, and Stewardship

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in plant biology, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related field.
• Up to 3 years of relevant laboratory experience; experience with cereal crop transformation, plant regeneration, greenhouse management and plant phenotyping is preferred.

Submission Instructions:

• Please include a 1–2-page cover letter describing academic background, research experience, research interest, and career goals
• CV
• Contact information for 3 professional references