Research Associate – Research Maize Transformation Lab

Posted 3 Days Ago
Be an Early Applicant
Des Moines, IA, USA
In-Office
Entry level
Greentech • Software • Agriculture
The Role
Execute maize tissue culture and transformation experiments using sterile techniques, support gene editing and transgenic plant research, collect and document experimental data, maintain lab equipment and supplies, follow biosafety and EH&S SOPs, and collaborate to improve laboratory workflows and meet project goals.
Summary Generated by Built In

Who Are We, And What Do We Do?

At Corteva Agriscience, you will help us grow what’s next. No matter your role, you will be part of a team that is building the future of agriculture – leading breakthroughs in the innovation and application of science and technology that will better the lives of people all over the world and fuel the progress of humankind.

Crop Genome Engineering is seeking a highly motivated and driven Research Associate to join our Maize Transformation Laboratory. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to cutting‑edge maize genome engineering and crop biotechnology research through hands‑on laboratory work and close collaboration with scientists and project teams.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced research environment, takes ownership of their work, and is excited by the challenge of executing and improving complex laboratory workflows. The Research Associate will play a key role in plant tissue culture, transformation processes, and experimental data generation, with a strong emphasis on quality, consistency, and scientific rigor. Individuals who are curious, proactive, and eager to grow their technical expertise will find this position especially rewarding.

What You’ll Do:

  • Conduct maize transformation and tissue culture experiments using sterile techniques.

  • Execute routine and moderately complex laboratory protocols with accuracy and consistency.

  • Support gene editing and transgenic plant research activities.

  • Monitor experiments, identify unexpected results, and communicate findings to a research lead.

  • Collect, analyze, and document experimental data in electronic format.

  • Maintain laboratory equipment, consumables, and lab space.

  • Follow EH&S, biosafety, and laboratory SOPs at all times.

  • Work collaboratively within research teams to meet project goals and timelines.

  • Participate in continuous improvement of laboratory processes and workflows.

What You Need:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, or related field.

  • Experience working in a laboratory environment.

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

  • Ability to follow protocols and work independently, as well as in a team setting.

  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.

  • The ability to occasionally lift and move heavy objects (25-50 lbs).

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, or related field.

  • Experience with tissue culture and transformation systems, preferably in maize.

  • Experience in problem-solving and experimental design.

Work Environment:

  • 100% on‑site laboratory role

  • Involves sterile techniques, biological materials, and controlled growth environments

  • Requires standing for extended periods and safe handling of laboratory equipment

*No visa sponsorship or relocation is available for this position.

Benefits – How We’ll Support You:

  • Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skills

  • Be part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better place

  • Health benefits for you and your family on your first day of employment

  • Four weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidays

  • Excellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and father

  • Future planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement program

  • Learn more about our total rewards package here - Corteva Benefits

  • Check out life at Corteva! www.linkedin.com/company/corteva/life


Are you a good match? Apply today! We seek applicants from all backgrounds to ensure we get the best, most creative talent on our team.

Corteva Agriscience is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to embracing our differences to enrich lives, advance innovation, and boost company performance. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, military or veteran status, pregnancy related conditions (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), disability or any other protected status in accordance with federal, state, or local laws.

Skills Required

  • Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or related field.
  • Experience working in a laboratory environment.
  • Experience with sterile techniques and conducting tissue culture experiments.
  • Ability to follow protocols and work independently and in a team.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to occasionally lift and move heavy objects (25-50 lbs).
  • Master's degree in Biological Sciences or related field.
  • Experience with tissue culture and transformation systems, preferably in maize.
  • Experience in problem-solving and experimental design.
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The Company
HQ: Indianapolis, IN
17,000 Employees
Year Founded: 2020

What We Do

Corteva Agriscience combines industry-leading innovations, high-touch customer engagement and operational execution to profitably deliver solutions for the world's most pressing agriculture challenges. Corteva generates advantaged market preference through its unique distribution strategy, together with its balanced and globally diverse mix of seed, crop protection, and digital products and services. With some of the most recognized brands in agriculture and a technology pipeline well positioned to drive growth, the company is committed to maximizing productivity for farmers, while working with stakeholders throughout the food system as it fulfills its promise to enrich the lives of those who produce and those who consume, ensuring progress for generations to come.

Why Work With Us

Corteva Agriscience is the only major agriscience company in the world completely dedicated to agriculture. Our purpose is to enrich the lives of those who produce and those who consume, ensuring progress for generation to come.

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