Junior Scientist - Plant Biology

About Plantible

Plantible is an innovative biology company focused on unlocking the potential of plants to benefit people and the planet. Supported by leading venture investors, their mission centers on delivering sustainable and regenerative solutions, particularly in the food sector. Learn more about their vision and progress at their official website.

Role Overview

We are on the lookout for a dedicated and enthusiastic Junior Scientist in Plant Biology to join our Upstream Cultivation team. This position requires hands-on experience with fundamental laboratory techniques, strong data analytic capabilities, and a proactive problem-solving mindset. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing nutrient levels in cultivation ponds, defining nutrient efficiency, and enhancing engineering approaches to nutrient application to optimize duckweed composition.

Additionally, this role includes experimenting with key process parameters to improve raceway flow for optimal distribution of water and Lemna, supporting data gathering and sensor trials for better understanding of greenhouse conditions, and linking lab-scale findings to pilot and commercial greenhouse operations. Occasionally, the position involves exploring the interaction between upstream cultivation and downstream protein processing to identify synergies.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage, operate, and troubleshoot research-scale cultivation ponds, acting as a liaison between R&D and engineering/operations for smooth technology transfer from laboratory scale to commercial scale.
• Plan, carry out, and analyze laboratory and field experiments aimed at improving plant protein quality and biomass output.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related scientific/engineering field with a minimum of two years of industrial research experience; or a Master's degree in assay development with at least one year of industrial experience.
• Proven competence in analyzing plant physiology to optimize crop nutrition and growth parameters, demonstrating a passion for continual improvement and meticulous attention to detail during experiments and data management.
• Laboratory experience in plant cultivation and sterile techniques; experience with protein purification or extraction is highly advantageous.
• Strong verbal and written communication, excellent time management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to excel in a dynamic, fast-paced startup environment as a self-motivated individual.
• Aptitude for quick learning, complex problem solving, and advanced data analysis, including understanding of controls and statistical methods.
• Creative mindset with a collaborative team approach aimed at achieving company objectives.
• Willingness to travel approximately 10-15% to support technology transfer with commercial protein production facilities.

Additional Information

We handle the recruitment process internally and do not collaborate with external recruiters. We prioritize equal employment opportunities and welcome applicants of diverse backgrounds. Candidates are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet every listed qualification, as multiple roles may fit different candidate profiles.

Recruitment Integrity Notice: Be cautious of fraudulent job offers and impersonation schemes. Official communications originate solely from email addresses ending with @plantiblefoods.com, and job postings appear exclusively on our official website and company channels. We never request payment or sensitive personal information during early hiring stages.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary range between $65,000 and $75,000 (Eldorado, TX location).
• Health and wellness benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Flexible paid time off policy with discretionary unlimited PTO.
• Paid holidays and company-sponsored 401k retirement plan.
• Career development programs and stipend.
• Opportunities for growth within a rapidly expanding startup.
• Support for relocation expenses to ensure a smooth transition.
• Engaging team-building and company-wide events.
• Access to extensive natural outdoor spaces for recreational activities.