Research Associate - Valent BioSciences LLC.

Valent BioSciences LLC is a worldwide leader in the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of biorational products for the agriculture, public health, and forestry markets. We have more than 60 years of experience bringing biorational products to market, and our products are used in sustainable operations in 95 countries around the world. Biorational products maximize plant quality, productivity, and sustainability.

As a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Chemical, Valent BioSciences LLC operates with the Sumitomo Spirit mindset, which means to benefit both self and others, recognizing that private and public interests are one and the same. It’s about contributing to society, as well as making a profit.

Description of Job: Contribute to and support internal metabolic engineering efforts at Valent Biosciences by executing various analytical chemistry methods and studies to identify and quantify target and off-target metabolites produced by microbial fermentations. Work with a team of strain engineers, synthetic biologists, fermentation scientists and analytical chemists to develop biorational products for agriculture and to support additional synthetic biology projects in other Sumitomo Chemical business areas.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Execute medium and high throughput analytical methods for detection of target molecules on instruments such as HPLC, LC-MS and LC-MS/MS, including preparation of samples from fermentation broths.
• Conduct analysis and report results for samples in a timely manner; conducting data analysis, preparing reports with conclusions and recommendations, and presenting results as needed.
• Participate in troubleshooting assays and analytical methodology, propose process and method improvements.
• Maintain laboratory documents including electronic lab notebook and SOPs.
• Conduct all work in strict compliance with all applicable safety requirements, containment requirements, standards operating procedures and/or guidelines.
• Maintain good laboratory practices (equipment, supplies, glassware, contamination, etc.).
• Work independently and with interdisciplinary research teams while maintaining a positive and collaborative environment.

Required Skills/Experience:

• Passion for the expanding field of synthetic biology, especially as it relates to the development of novel products and sustainable solutions.
• Familiar with analytical assays on HPLC, LC-MS and LC-MS/MS instruments is desirable
• Experience working with biological samples.
• Experience working in high throughput environment with 24-, 48- and 96-well plate formats is desirable.
• Foundational understanding of microbial biochemistry would be beneficial.
• Laboratory experience in synthetic biology or metabolic engineering environments would be a plus.
• Works well in cross-functional teams, especially with synthetic biologists and analytical chemists.
• Strong communication, presentation and listening skills.
• Will support and foster a culture of diversity and inclusion.

Education: Bachelor's degree in chemistry or life science with a minimum of 0-2 years of relevant experience, an AA degree or equivalent with a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience and a demonstrated willingness to continue to seek training relevant for an R&D role or a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience with excellent demonstrated performance and a demonstrated willingness to continue to seek training relevant for an R&D role.

Travel: Limited travel will be required. ( What We Offer

We recognize that compensation and benefits play a crucial role in your career decisions. That’s why we’re dedicated to equitable pay practices and transparency in how we reward our employees.

Base Salary: The estimated annual base salary for this position ranges from:

$62,900 to $75,500. Individual pay is based upon location, skills, experience, and other relevant factors.

Incentives: All full-time employees are eligible for an incentive program or profit-sharing program in addition to their base salary.

Benefits:

• High-quality healthcare coverage starting on day one, with options for medical (HSA/HRA), vision, and dental plans
• 5% company contribution to your 401(k), plus a quarterly discretionary bonus
• Immediate 100% vesting of all retirement contributions
• Financial assistance programs to support your goals
• Life and disability insurance for added security
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer days

Our Commitment to a Sustainable Future

At Valent Group of Companies, we’re proud to power a sustainable future through our work. Sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have been at the core of our culture since the beginning. Today, they continue to drive everything we do.

Join us in making a meaningful impact and contributing to a better world.

• Valent U.S.A., Valent North America LLC, Valent BioSciences LLC and Mycorrhizal Applications LLC are an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and/or identity, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, disabilities, or protected veteran status.

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