Syngenta is a global leader in agriculture; rooted in science and dedicated to bringing plant potential to life. Each of our 28,000 employees in more than 90 countries work together to solve one of humanity’s most pressing challenges: growing more food with fewer resources. A diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace environment are enablers of our ambition to be the most collaborative and trusted team in agriculture. Our employees reflect the diversity of our customers, the markets where we operate and the communities which we serve. No matter what your position, you will have a vital role in safely feeding the world and taking care of our planet. Join us and help shape the future of agriculture.

Please note: this position is open to US-based candidates and is 100% onsite in Naples, FL.

The Lab assistant in Malta Genotyping lab will be in charge of executing protocols related to genotyping by sequencing in a state of the art lab. The protocols include tissue reception, DNA extraction, Library preparation and sequencing. Support of documentation development and maintenance, stock management, and activities associated to procurement will be also part of his/her responsibility.

The incumbent will temporarily manage a team of external contractors, will participate in the basic task for maintenance of lab equipment and will be part of the lab process improvement. The assistant will interact with peers across the different regions where other genotyping labs are located.

Accountabilities

• Extracting DNA from samples: (Leafs and/or Seeds)
• Prepare DNA libraries for sequencing
• Adding chemical buffers to sample plates, operating sample grinders, and liquid handling machines.
• Complete scheduled daily extractions and/or library preps within required time limit, keeping all test plates organized to maintain sample identity.
• Update tasks electronically via LIMS.
• Learn the background of experiments and plant breeding projects. Participate in meetings and share relevant information with others.
• Train and support lab contractors during peak seasons
• Communicate and implement process improvement ideas.
• Fast-paced lab environment with accountability for quality and speed of lab work completed each day
• Function as a member of a diverse project team and successfully collaborate across teams to analyze and troubleshoot data quality issues.
• Additional job duties including, but not limited to: unloading consumables (sample plates, tips for machines, chemicals, etc.) from pallets. Un-packaging consumables from boxes then place them in the proper lab spaces. Discarding of unused seed materials. Autoclave materials as needed. Cleaning of lab ware. Keep laboratory space clean.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Biology, Genetics or related field required.
• Solid understanding of basic laboratory procedures and equipment
• Must be authorized to work for Syngenta in the United States without work authorization sponsorship
• Preferred Requirements
• 2 – 4 years of experience working in a professional laboratory preferred.
• Experience operating and providing general maintenance on the following laboratory equipment: (Tecan, Biotek Multiflos, centrifuge and sample grinders) is highly preferred
• Experience working with chemical buffers highly preferred
• Previous DNA extraction or PCR experience highly preferred

What We Offer:

• Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts the same day you do
• 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution
• Open Vacation Policy with a minimum of 15 days of vacation and up to 30 days with manager approval, 9 Paid Holidays
• Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts among others
• A culture that promotes work/life balance, celebrates diversity, and offers numerous family-oriented events throughout the year

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
(http://www.dol.gov/whd/regs/compliance/posters/fmla.htm)

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC)
(http://webapps.dol.gov/elaws/firststep/poster_direct.htm)

Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)
(http://www.dol.gov/whd/regs/compliance/posters/eppa.htm)

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