Plant Genomics Research Associate (9612C), Innovative Genomics Institute, #85877

Departmental Overview

The Innovative Genomics Institute is a joint effort between the Bay Area's leading scientific research institutions, UC Berkeley and UC San Francisco, with affiliates at UC Davis, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Gladstone Institutes, and other institutions. The IGI's diverse group of leading scientists have powerful interdisciplinary expertise. They conduct world-class research, driven by the real possibility of using genome engineering to treat human diseases, end hunger, and respond to climate change.

In addition to our scientific efforts, the IGI is committed to advancing public understanding of genome engineering, providing resources for the broader community, and guiding the ethical use of these technologies.

Position Summary

Under the general direction of the IGI Plant Genomics and Transformation Facility (PGTF) Director, the Plant Genomics Research Associate is responsible for establishing and improving plant transformation and gene editing protocols in major crop species. Responsibilities include producing materials for use in experiments, maintaining materials in growth chamber and greenhouse settings, and conducting experiments such as introducing DNA and RNPs into plants and regenerating plants via tissue culture. The incumbent is expected to contribute original ideas to advance PGTF research as well as conduct inter-laboratory collaboration, including the exchange of materials and information.

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is: May 18, 2026

Responsibilities

• Establish and improve plant transformation and gene editing protocols in major monocot crops such as pearl millet and maize in the IGI Plant Genomics and Transformation Facility (PGTF). Generate and maintaining transgenic/genome-edited plants using plant tissue culture and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation.
• Produce and maintain donor plant materials and transgenic/genome-edited plants in growth chambers and greenhouses using standardized propagation methods (e.g., seed germination, tiller separation and planting, or tissue culture) and robust labeling and tracking systems to preserve genetic integrity. Ensure consistent plant quality through routine monitoring of growth and phenotype, optimize environmental conditions (light, temperature, humidity, irrigation, and nutrients), and implement integrated pest and disease management to support plant health and experimental reproducibility.
• Conduct inter-laboratory collaboration, including the exchange of materials and information.
• Prepare media for bacterial and tissue culture.
• Contribute original ideas in various facets of research endeavors.
• Provide technical training for IGI PGTF researchers and facility users.
• General lab maintenance including biological waste disposal and organizing freezer/fridge space.

Required Qualifications

• Experience with plant tissue culture and transformation techniques e.g. Agrobacterium, biolistics, PEG (polyethylene glycol) and/or electroporation.
• Experience in plant care and greenhouse work.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Highly motivated and diligent in work ethic.
• Excellent organizational skills (keeping track of schedule, paperwork, sample storage, and inventory).
• General computer skills (Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel) for keeping track of results and sharing progress.
• Bachelor's degree (Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, or Cell Biology) and/or equivalent experience/training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with standard molecular biology techniques: PCR; electrophoresis; western blot; microscopy.

Salary & Benefits

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website.

Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

The budgeted annual salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $65,155.55 (step 1.0) - $67,811.57 (step 3.0).

• This is a full-time (40 hours/week), career position that is eligible for UC Benefits.
• This is an exempt monthly-paid position.

How to Apply

• To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

Other Information

• This position is governed by the terms and conditions in the agreement for the Research Support Professionals Unit (RX) between the University of California and the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE). The current bargaining agreement manual can be found at: http://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/rx/index.html
• This is not a visa opportunity. This position does not include sponsorship of a new consular H-1B visa petition that would require payment of the $100,000 supplemental fee.

Conviction History Background

This is a designated position requiring fingerprinting and a background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities. Berkeley does hire people with conviction histories and reviews information received in the context of the job responsibilities. The University reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

Mandated Reporter

This position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter required to report the observed or suspected abuse or neglect of children, dependent adults, or elders to designated law enforcement or social service agencies. We reserve the right to make employment contingent upon completion of signed statements acknowledging the responsibilities of a Mandated Reporter.

Misconduct

SB 791 and AB 810 Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy

UC Anti-Discrimination Policy

Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.