Job Title: Microbial Laboratory Research Associate

Who are we and what do we do?

Jord BioScience is a fundamentally different microbial company, using microbial technologies to help other agricultural companies deliver more effective and consistent products in the marketplace. Formed in 2019 out of the University of Minnesota, we are a start-up with a unique discovery platform of over 6000 microbial isolates. Our technology enhances commercial microbial products within indigenous microbial communities to improve performance and consistency for farmers.

We blend extensive scientific depth, operational excellence, and commercialization experience to deliver custom microbial solutions for the world’s leading ag companies. We are transforming regenerative agriculture from the ground up, through our proprietary technology that realizes the potential of microbial products in agriculture, and we are growing.

Job Summary:

Jord is looking for a full-time Microbiology Laboratory Research Associate who will be responsible for assisting with the support of product development pipelines. The technician will work under the supervision of the VP Lab Operations and Product Development, and will assist in culturing and characterization of microbes, performing assays key to the discovery process, and maintaining the lab environment. Jord’s teams are highly cooperative, and this role will require cross-team collaboration, including with the data and greenhouse teams.

Expectations: Laboratory technical staff must be deeply committed to the success of the Jord BioScience Team, including in facilitating a vigorous environment of high productivity, positivity, transparency, and shared commitment to Jord BioScience’s research goals/mission. Laboratory technical staff must be highly dependable, adaptive, and collaborative, with strong capacities to work independently and in a team environment. Members of the Jord BioScience’s Science Team will be part of a dynamic research program and require the capacity to respond rapidly to evolving goals. Open and collaborative communication with all members of the Jord BioScience Team are critical for success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Culture a variety of microorganisms using specified lab procedures and methods
• Prepare samples, perform biological assays and phenotypic characterizations according to laboratory procedures and methods
• Assist in the continued expansion and maintenance of the microbial library
• Support the greenhouse and crop team when necessary, including assisting in execution of plant growth assays, seed treatment preparation, and other cross-functional team support
• Maintain the laboratory environment and supplies including inventory of reagents and media, monitoring, cleaning, and maintenance of the laboratory environment, and coordination with external equipment experts for instrument maintenance and/or installation
• Record data and results, track progress in project management software, collaborate with data team members on analysis
• Continuously learn and expand skills concomitant with Jord’s growth

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology , or chemistry
• Basic knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and policies
• Ability to operate equipment necessary for the role
• An understanding of aseptic technique or biological testing methods
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow directions closely
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Enthusiasm for and ability to work in a fast-paced environment