Research Associate III, Pathology
Ohalo Genetics
Position: Research Associate III, Pathology
Location: South San Francisco, CA
Type: Full Time
The Opportunity:
Ohalo™ is seeking an organized and detailed-oriented research associate to lead plant pathology efforts to support the potato, strawberry and other crop breeding programs. This role is ideal for a driven early-career scientist with at least two years of experience in plant diagnostic techniques who is eager to innovate and grow professionally in a fast-paced, high-impact startup environment. The research associate will play a critical role in the execution of Ohalo’s groundbreaking breeding platforms, leading the sourcing and maintenance of pathogen-free plant stock to enable revolutionary gains in crop yield and breeding efficiency.
Responsibilities:
- Acts as the pathology resource for the potato, strawberry, and other crop breeding programs
- Works closely with crop breeders and TC team to quarantine incoming material germplasm and ensure plant material is free of diseases before entering Ohalo’s breeding program
- Conducts routine scouting of plant material in the greenhouse and field
- Works closely with the greenhouse team to monitor pest pressure and conducts diagnostic assays as needed
- Proactively communicates with breeders and technical program managers to plan testing and certification of material being sent to collaborators
- Conducts diagnostic assays including culturing of plant pathogens and identification via morphological characteristics, ELISA, PCR and RT-PCR
- Communicates diagnostic results to technical program managers and breeders, compiles diagnostic reports for managers and collaborators
- Keeps accurate records of diagnostic testing
- Manages the pathology laboratory, including maintaining laboratory equipment, keeping inventory of supplies and reagents, and enforcing sanitation measures
- Stays up-to-date on phytosanitary requirements for the movement of plant material between facilities and collaborators’ operations
- Works with breeders and breeding research associates to organize, execute, and analyze data from disease phenotyping experiments
- Works with greenhouse management, breeders, and breeding research associates to organize, execute, and analyze other breeding greenhouse tasks as needed
- Presents research outcomes to peers and leadership
Candidate Profile:
- Masters degree in plant pathology with experience evaluating disease symptomology in a variety of settings
- 3+ years experience in a pathology-focused role with diagnostic experience
- Experience with aseptic and molecular biology techniques
- Ability to effectively communicate phytosanitary practices in field, greenhouse, and laboratory settings to broad audiences
- Meticulous approach to planning with failsafes to prevent pitfalls
- Must be detail-oriented, well-organized, and good at record keeping
- Positive attitude and good interpersonal skills
- Enthusiastic about plant pathology with a desire to innovate
- Ability to work creatively in a dynamic, data driven start-up environment
Desired skills/experience:
- Familiarity with microbial community sequencing methods and interpretation
- Experience conducting disease resistance phenotyping assays in the growth chamber, greenhouse, and/or field and using statistical analysis to drive decisions
The anticipated pay range that we reasonably expect to pay for this role is $100,000 - $120,000 for South San Francisco, CA. Individual compensation is based on various factors including experience, education, skillset, and other relevant qualifications.
About Ohalo Genetics:
Ohalo is using an evolutionary lens to reimagine the art and science of plant breeding. We seek to transform breeding and production systems with a goal of helping to sustainably support the world’s growing population.
Note: If you previously applied for a job at Ohalo Genetics, we encourage you to restate your interest in the position by submitting your application.
No visa sponsorship is available for this position at this time.
No recruiter submissions, please.