Part Time Associate Scientist - Biological Product Development

POSTED: May 8, 2024
BUSINESS: AgXelerators, Inc.
POSITION TYPE: Part-time
START DATE: Immediate Availability

AgXelerators Inc. is a start-up company helping Innovators revolutionize the landscape of Agricultural crop protection, crop health, crop production, soil health and soil regeneration.
With a particular emphasis on biological- and natural product-based solutions, the mission for our highly experienced team is to accelerate the development of new, innovative Discovery Research candidates from around the world into eco-friendly, sustainable, reliable, grower-ready formulated products that express their full performance potential using state-of-the-art and next generation delivery systems.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Part-Time Associate Scientist to join our growing team located at the Purdue Technology Center, West Lafayette, Indiana.
The position offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience in the field of biological formulation development and contribute to cutting-edge projects in a dynamic and collaborative environment. You will work closely with experienced scientists, learn essential experimental design and laboratory techniques, and contribute to the advancement of innovative products and solutions for the agricultural market.

Key Responsibilities:

• Under the guidance of senior scientists, assist in the development and optimization of formulations of biological and chemical active ingredients such as micro-organisms, proteins, peptides, plant extracts, viruses, natural derived or synthetic chemicals, etc.
• Provide subject matter expertise for the exploration, proof of concept, and development of biological analytical assay methods to characterize the impact of co-formulants, storage conditions and production methods on novel biological formulations.
• Follow established protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for safe and efficient laboratory practices.
• Record and document all experimental information including procedures, equipment, conditions, materials, quantities and raw data, etc., and organize, analyze, summarize and report the final results.
• Conduct literature searches to gather relevant scientific information and actively contribute to innovative ideas and approaches to address formulation assay and stability challenges.
• Maintain a clean and well-organized laboratory environment. Prepare and sterilize glassware and lab equipment. Monitor and manage inventory levels of chemicals, reagents, and supplies.
• Collaborate effectively with other team members and customers. Present experimental results and progress in group discussions and project updates.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D., MS, or BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, Biology, Food Science, Microbiology, Plant Pathology, related fields or relevant experience.
• Good grasp of chemistry, biochemistry, and biology principles and how to apply them in solving real world problems.
• Demonstrated competence in analytical method development, especially in the area of microbial enumeration concepts and experience with analytical equipment including liquid handlers, plating, colony counting, etc.
• Experience working with biological actives and developing biological products.
• Fast learner with strong curiosity and passion in biological and chemical formulations and hands-on experimentation.
• Self-motivated and reliable to work independently with minimal guidance.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow protocols and adhere to safety guidelines in the laboratory.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.

We offer a flexible working environment and competitive pay.

Join our team and be part of an exciting journey to drive innovation and make a meaningful impact in the field of agricultural crop protection, crop health, crop production, soil health and soil regeneration.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter highlighting your interest in the position and relevant experiences to Mark Zettler (mzettler@agxelerators.com).