Location:

San Diego, CA | Full-Time | On-site

Start Date:

August 11, 2025 (Flexible)

Reports To:

Chief Scientific Officer

About Crop Diagnostix:

Crop Diagnostix is an innovative AgTech company using cutting-edge genomics and AI to transform agriculture. By harnessing the power of plant gene expression, we empower farmers, breeders and input manufacturers with unprecedented insights into plant biology; allowing them to optimize inputs, boost yields, and reduce environmental impact. Join us as we build the future of predictive agriculture and help farmers feed the world sustainably.

Job Overview:

Help scale sequencing operations and optimize molecular workflows for a Biotech x AI x AgTech startup backed by top VC investors. As our Research Associate II / Senior Research Associate, you’ll play a critical role in executing and refining next-generation sequencing assays, improving lab throughput, and maintaining operational excellence in a fast-paced startup environment.

This is a full-time, on-site role based in our San Diego lab. Standard hours are Monday–Friday, 8 hours/day, with flexibility depending on workflow needs.

Compensation:

• $30 - $40 per hour
• Health insurance offered
• Equity package included
• Flexible time off

Responsibilities:

• Organize, prepare and process plant genomic libraries for sequencing using robotic platforms.
• Perform and optimize molecular biology protocols (including but not limited to RNA extraction, Reverse Transcription, PCR).
• Independently assess sample quality, and collect, organize, and verify data accuracy.
• Develop genomic assay workflows focused on efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Evaluate new tools, kits, and automation systems to decrease sample processing time, cost and scale sample throughput.
• Maintain lab documentation, SOPs, and reagent inventories.
• Gain experience managing genomic datasets in R and similar environments.
• Participate in lab meetings and contribute to project planning.
• Manage and oversee daily laboratory operations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in life sciences.
• 2+ years of hands-on laboratory experience.

Competencies:

• Proficient in RNA/DNA extraction, RT, PCR, and library prep workflows.
• Familiarity with RNA-seq workflows and NGS platforms (e.g., Illumina).
• Experience with high-throughput biology or lab automation tools is a plus.
• Engineering mindset - constantly looking for ways to streamline, automate, and improve lab processes.
• Startup mentality - you’re scrappy, hands-on, and energized by fast-paced, resource-constrained environments. You move fast, learn even faster, and are comfortable wearing multiple hats.
• Experience managing genomic datasets in R or similar environments is desirable.
• Strong organizational skills—able to track experiments, write protocols, and manage timelines.
• Proficient in Excel; familiarity with basic troubleshooting of lab software and hardware.
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal), and ability to work independently.
• Able to sit/stand for long periods and lift up to 20 lbs occasionally.