Scientist II – Assay Development

About Pivot Bio:  

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of microbiology, genomics, crop nutrition and agriculture, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in fertilizer technology. Our first commercial product harnesses the power of naturally-occurring microbes, modern gene editing and application technologies to provide nitrogen to crops.  We are dedicated to providing new solutions for farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the world’s growing population. Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on Forbes or PBS News Hour.

The Discovery and Translational Research team (DTR) at Pivot Bio is looking for a scientist to develop novel microbial assays that bridge wet lab with real-world agricultural impact, working closely with plant and field scientists to translate microbial research into practical applications. This position emphasizes teamwork, scientific excellence, and product development while maintaining safe efficient laboratory operations. An appreciation for developing robust, reproducible, and high throughput processes is a must. 

This role is onsite in Hazelwood, MO.

Core Responsibilities:   

• Design, develop, and validate novel assays for measuring microbial indications including macro and micronutrients, metabolites, and/or biomarkers. 
• Optimize analytical and biochemical methods to improve sensitivity, specificity, and throughput for laboratory (and potentially field) applications. 
• Communicate timelines, assay development status, and results to stakeholders across functional teams. 
• Collaborate with plant assay teams to translate microbial indications to in planta results. 
• Work with field agronomists to further extend laboratory assays to real-world agricultural settings. 
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies in microbiology and plant nutrition. 
• Provide subject matter expertise to support regulatory submissions and product claims. 
• Write and follow SOPs to deliver consistent, high-quality results. 
• Maintain a safe lab environment for yourself and others. 
• Ensure general lab upkeep and equipment maintenance. 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Ph.D. in biology, chemistry, bioengineering, chemical engineering, or related field.  
• Minimum of 2 years of industry experience (or equivalent amount of related experience), preferably with exposure to a high throughput screening operation environment.  
• Proficient in data analysis skills and software; ability to draw conclusions and communicate results from large data sets. 
• Able to operate laboratory automation, including plate-based liquid handling and chromatography with the aim of developing efficient and robust workflows. 
• Experience mentoring and/or managing junior members. 
• Exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills 
• Must be flexible and responsive to changing priorities. 
• Highly resourceful and comfortable working both independently and in a team environment. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience using JMP, Spotfire, R, Tableau, or other data visualization and analysis software. 
• Experience using SQL for data retrieval, and an understanding of relational databases. 
• Experience working in or exposure to a high-throughput assay screening operations environment. 
• Experience using ASANA. 

Must Be Authorized to Work in the United States

What We Offer: 

• Competitive package in a disruptive startup 
• Stock options 
• Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums 
• Life, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policies 
• Employee Assistance Program with free referrals and discounts 
• 401(k) plan, 3% Match 
• Commuter benefits 
• Annual Training & Development support 
• Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule 
• Exciting opportunity to work with a talented and fun team

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