Assistant Research Scientist, Chemistry

About the Company:

ProFarm is an agricultural technology company on a mission to improve the food we eat in a way that benefits the grower, the consumer, and the entire industry. Headquartered in Davis, California, with a global footprint spanning Michigan to Finland, we deliver field-proven, biological solutions for pest management and plant health. By bridging the gap between sustainability and profitability, ProFarm helps modern growers optimize crop yields while protecting the planet. Learn more and join our mission at ProFarm.com.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Essential Functions:

• Ability to accurately use standard laboratory equipment (e.g., balances, pipettes, centrifuges, etc.).

• Perform extractions (e.g., liquid-liquid, solid phase extraction, etc.) to extract potential actives from various microbial and plant sources.

• Conduct bioassay-guided fractionation of crude extracts to isolate and identify active fractions.

• Familiarity with the concepts of thin layer chromatography, size exclusion chromatography, spectroscopy, etc.

• Participate in the development of processes for the isolation, separation, purification, and identification of the active compound(s).

• Support development of analytical methods using HPLC to support development/advancement of the various projects in the pipeline.

• Keep track of the solvents, chemicals, and general lab supplies and replenish them as necessary to ensure that the work flows smoothly.

• Able to communicate effectively and work closely with multiple functional groups.

• Participate in group and project meetings. This includes preparing presentations and giving/receiving constructive feedback.

• Ability to design and independently perform tasks and provide accurate results.

• Effectively plans work schedule and able to utilize resources for timely completion of assigned projects.

• Document and maintain legible, accurate, and complete laboratory records.

• Maintains a clean and safe laboratory work environment.

• Write reports and protocols, including SOPs and methods.

• Effectively organize, prioritize and follow-up on work assignments.

• Ability to understand a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

• Ability to multi-task and work in a fast paced environment.

• Promotes a cohesive team environment.

• Work independently and as a member of a team.

• Establish and maintain effective working relationship.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education: 

• B.S. degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Analytical Chemistry with at least 2-3 years research experience.

Experience:  

• Essential experience with relevant separation methods including centrifugation, liquid-liquid, solid-liquid extractions, fractionation, and chromatography (Column chromatography, analytical/preparative HPLC).

• High energy, and self-motivation, able to work hard in a fast-paced team environment.

• Strong communication and teamwork skills demonstrated by genuine collaborative approach and responsiveness to working with other chemists and other groups.

• Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and effectively to express information in both written and oral context.

• Excellent skills in teamwork and collaboration are required.

• Strong communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills are a must.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to sit at a desk for extended periods. 

• Extensive use of computer keyboard, mouse and monitor.

• Ability to lift at least 30+/- pounds.  

• Ability to walk, bend, stoop, kneel, twist, turn and use/walk up ladders.

• Handling various chemical products, some of which have some level of hazard, such as solvents.

COMPENSATION:

• ProFarm offers a comprehensive benefits package including a health plan, medical and dental coverage, life insurance coverage, long term disability and a flexible spending account for dependent care and/or medical expenses. 

• The above is a list of the essential duties and responsibilities for this position. This list is not all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned. This job description may be modified as needed.

• ProFarm is an equal-opportunity employer. A pre-employment background check will be required.