PROCESS DEVELOPMENT SCIENTIST

Monsanto Company, based in St. Louis, MO, is a leading global provider of technology-based solutions and agricultural products that improve farm productivity and food quality. As a Fortune 500 company, Monsanto has been ranked as one of the top ten employers in the biotechnology industry by "Science" Magazine.

We seek a highly talented individual as a Process Development Scientist on the System Support Team in one of the largest high-throughput genotyping laboratories in the World located in Ankeny, IA. The laboratory supports Monsanto's molecular breeding efforts with the ultimate aim of aiding breeders in bringing new traits and new higher yielding elite lines of row crops to market in a timely manner. In this role daily responsibilities will include the improvement of existing extraction and detection methods as well as the support of current automated laboratory systems in terms of maintenance, troubleshooting, documentation and training.

The candidate will be responsible for implementation of process changes as they relate to sample preparation, DNA extraction, and assay chemistry before release to production. This includes developing and testing the process on fully automated systems, documentation of new procedures and training other team members. Additionally, the candidate will monitor system performance, implement strategies to increase throughput and decrease downtime, troubleshoot hardware and software issues within teams as well as outside vendors and also work closely with data production, new technology development, QC and IT teams.

The successful candidate will possess 4+ years experience in troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance of laboratory and production equipment or 4+ years experience in development of assays or methods. Strong mechanical aptitude and experience with laboratory robotics and automation and the ability to diagnose and remedy laboratory related issues is required. Must have experience developing or improving molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction, and PCR. Will be a creative thinker with excellent problem solving and communication skills and work with a sense of urgency.

At Monsanto, we offer a highly competitive salary & benefits package with career development opportunities in a team-oriented working environment. To apply on-line, please visit the Careers section of our website at www.monsanto.com and search by req. mons-00008425. Monsanto values diversity & is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V