Research Associate

About the organization

About Genective
Genective is a 50/50 joint venture established between Limagrain and KWS, two of the world’s
largest seed companies. With entities and activities in North America, South America, Europe,
and Asia, Genective is currently dedicated to the research, development, and commercialization
of insecticidal transgenic traits for maize.
About Limagrain
As the fourth largest seed company worldwide, Limagrain’s mission is to move agriculture forward to
meet global food related challenges. Limagrain is a cooperative group founded and managed by French
farmers. Its parent company, Cooperative Limagrain, brings together nearly 2,000 farmers located in
the center of France. The Limagrain Group creates, produces, and distributes field seeds, vegetable
seeds and cereal products. Limagrain is present in 56 countries and has more than 10,000 employees.
Limagrain also owns several well-known companies worldwide such as: LG, Vilmorin, Hazera, Harris
Moran, Jacquet, and Brossard.
About KWS
KWS is one of the world’s leading plant breeding companies. A company with a tradition of family
ownership, KWS has operated independently for more than 160 years. It focuses on plant breeding and
the production and sale of seed for sugarbeet, cereals, rapeseed, sunflower and numerous vegetables.
KWS uses leading-edge plant breeding methods to increase farmers’ yields and to improve resistance
to diseases, pests and abiotic stress.

About the Role

Genective, a JV between two leading global seeds companies, Limagrain and KWS, is seeking a research
associate to join our growing team in the U.S. This person will be a member of our early-stage research team
that is focused on the discovery and development of insecticidal genes to support the characterization of our
candidate proteins. The primary working location at Genective’s global headquarters in Champaign, IL while
occasionally working at the research facility in Weldon, IL may be required.

The successful candidate will possess basic protein purification/characterization experience and the ability to
independently analyze and prioritize multiple projects. The candidate will utilize and develop protocols and
SOPs for screening processes. Basic responsibilities involve the purification and characterization of recombinant
proteins, sample preparation for insect bioassay, and general laboratory duties. The candidate will coordinate
multiple projects simultaneously and interface with a diverse group of highly qualified scientists and technicians.
The candidate will be proficient in planning, execution, analysis, presenting and writing reports to accomplish
work goals in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Evaluation of existing and new technologies to optimize and streamline discovery platforms.
• Actively seek out stakeholder needs and objectives to support Protein Biochemistry platforms.
• Plan, design, execute, record, and analyze studies under supervision. Write and review technical protocols and reports.
• Participate and contribute to project execution, updates, and completion. Effectively communicate experimental results across multiple teams by distilling complex information to readily interpreted conclusions.
• Utilize knowledge and expertise to proactively engage members of Genective R&D team to promote an energetic culture of science and community.
• Demonstrate a core desire for continuous improvement through exchange of constructive advice with other scientists regardless of seniority level.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Training in biochemistry, microbiology, cell biology or related life science field focused on protein sciences.
• Hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression and purification with FPLC chromatography systems (e.g. AKTA) using Ni-NTA, IEX, SEC etc.
• Protein quantification, labeling, and western blotting experience is a plus.
• Experience with bioassay planning and statistical analysis (JMP, R) is a plus.
• Excellent English oral, written, presentation, and time management skills.
• Ability to work, think critically, analyze, and interpret data independently as well as collaboratively in a fast-paced and agile environment.
• Possess a love of learning, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to continuous upskilling.
• BS/MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field.

The Reward

• Competitive base salary
• Bonus
• 401(k)
• Medical, dental, and vision,
• Short-term and long-term disability
• Basic and voluntary life insurance; AD&D insurance plans
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for health and dependent care
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Parental, Bereavement and Jury Duty Leave
• Paid holiday, vacation, and sick time
• Employee Referral
• Fitness Program

Physical Demands

• Ability to move around the lab, handle equipment, and perform tasks that require fine motor skills.
• Capability to stand or sit for extended periods while conducting experiments.
• Good visual acuity for reading instruments, computer screens, and detailed lab work.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills to interact with staff and document findings.
• Must be able lift up to 20lbs at times.

If interested, please send your cover letter and resume to resumes@genective.com with subject line Application for
Protein Analyst.