Research Associate I, Soil Science

Pattern Ag is an agricultural technology company leveraging advances in genomics, data science, and microbiology to help farmers improve the productivity and profitability of their land. By applying genomic analysis to farm soil, we unlock a wide range of predictive insights that help farmers optimize their spend on seed, crop protection, and fertility inputs. Combining these insights with the latest in digital sensing, data science, and machine learning, we are ushering in the era of predictive agriculture, powering on-farm decision making for millions of acres, and billions in crop spend.

Our team is seeking a Research Associate to support high throughput commercial and R&D soil chemistry analyses. This is an excellent position in biotechnology for those who would like to work in a fast-paced startup. You will have an opportunity to gain experience with state-of-the-art technologies and interdisciplinary approaches. 

This is a full-time position reporting to our Director of Soil Science.

Start Date: Immediately upon completion of pre-hire requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Commercial
  • Become expert operator (software & hardware) of analytical instruments: TC elemental analyzers (EA), flow injection analyzers (FIA)
  • Cross-train on other analytical technologies to support colleagues as needed
  • Coordinate with upstream and downstream teams to maintain short turnaround times, including soil sample pre-processing and sample reruns based on quality control metrics
  • Work with vendors and engineers to proactively maintain instruments and equipment
  • Train and provide guidance for dynamic (~3 mo) seasonal work force during peak (cyclical) commercial production
  • Maintain clean and organized work environment during all phases of operation
• R&D
  • Continue development of wet-slurry soil processing pipeline for FIA and EA analytes
  • Perform data analysis/reduction and entry of results
  • Pilot new analytical methods in compliance with published standard techniques, but maximizing operational efficiency

Skills and Special Requirements: 

• Must be able to multitask and work in a fast paced environment
• Must be able to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Required Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in physical sciences either completed or in-process
• 1 year hands on experience with common laboratory equipment
• Aptitude for data handling

Work Environment & Physical Demands: 

The characteristics described below are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing duties of this job, will be required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, stoop or kneel, and use fingers and hands.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
• Job will be performed in a lab environment. 
• Dress is casual and Protective Personal Equipment is supplied as well as lab coats.
• Acoustic levels in the lab may exceed 80 dBa (PPE provided)

We're excited to review your application!