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Ohalo Genetics, Inc

Research Associate III, Pathology Watsonville, CA

Ohalo Genetics, Inc, Watsonville, California, United States, 95076

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Overview

Position:

Research Associate III, Pathology Location:

Watsonville, CA Type:

Full Time Ohalo is seeking an organized and detail-oriented research associate to lead plant pathology efforts to support the potato, strawberry and other crop breeding programs. This role is ideal for a driven early-career scientist with at least two years of experience in plant diagnostic techniques who is eager to innovate and grow professionally in a fast-paced, high-impact startup environment. The research associate will play a critical role in the execution of Ohalo’s groundbreaking breeding platforms, leading the sourcing and maintenance of pathogen-free plant stock to enable revolutionary gains in crop yield and breeding efficiency.

Responsibilities

Acts as the pathology resource for the potato, strawberry, and other crop breeding programs

Works closely with crop breeders and TC team to quarantine incoming material germplasm and ensure plant material is free of diseases before entering Ohalo’s breeding program

Conducts routine scouting of plant material in the greenhouse and field

Works closely with the greenhouse team to monitor pest pressure and conducts diagnostic assays as needed

Proactively communicates with breeders and technical program managers to plan testing and certification of material being sent to collaborators

Conducts diagnostic assays including culturing of plant pathogens and identification via morphological characteristics, ELISA, PCR and RT-PCR

Communicates diagnostic results to technical program managers and breeders, compiles diagnostic reports for managers and collaborators

Keeps accurate records of diagnostic testing

Manages the pathology laboratory, including maintaining laboratory equipment, keeping inventory of supplies and reagents, and enforcing sanitation measures

Conducts routine HPLC analysis

Stays up-to-date on phytosanitary requirements for the movement of plant material between facilities and collaborators’ operations

Works with breeders and breeding research associates to organize, execute, and analyze data from disease phenotyping experiments

Works with greenhouse management, breeders, and breeding research associates to organize, execute, and analyze other breeding greenhouse tasks as needed

Presents research outcomes to peers and leadership

Candidate Profile

Masters degree in plant pathology with experience evaluating disease symptomology in a variety of settings

3+ years experience in a pathology-focused role with diagnostic experience

Experience with aseptic and molecular biology techniques

Ability to effectively communicate phytosanitary practices in field, greenhouse, and laboratory settings to broad audiences

Meticulous approach to planning with failsafes to prevent pitfalls

Must be detail-oriented, well-organized, and good at record keeping

Positive attitude and good interpersonal skills

Enthusiastic about plant pathology with a desire to innovate

Ability to work creatively in a dynamic, data driven start-up environment

Desired skills/experience

Familiarity with microbial community sequencing methods and interpretation

Experience conducting disease resistance phenotyping assays in the growth chamber, greenhouse, and/or field and using statistical analysis to drive decisions

Note: The anticipated pay range is $95,000 - $110,000 for Watsonville, CA. Individual compensation is based on experience, education, skillset, and other relevant qualifications.

About Ohalo Genetics Ohalo is using an evolutionary lens to reimagine the art and science of plant breeding. We seek to transform breeding and production systems with a goal of helping to sustainably support the world’s growing population.

Note: If you previously applied for a job at Ohalo Genetics, we encourage you to restate your interest in the position by submitting your application.

No visa sponsorship is available for this position at this time.

No recruiter submissions, please.

Logistics Are you legally authorized to work in the United States? This position does not sponsor visas.

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