Analyst II - Research Scientist, Biology
Champaign, IL, US, 61822
This position is required to be on-site.
As the name implies, Waypoint Analytical is the company that you have been trying to find. Waypoint Analytical is a top environmental laboratory in the United States and is arguably the largest agricultural laboratory group. Headquartered in Memphis, TN and with a national footprint of full-service agriculture and environmental laboratories throughout the U.S., Waypoint Analytical (WA) has established its agricultural soil labs as the most reliable and timely provider of agricultural soil test data.
When you join the Waypoint Team you can feel the chemistry. There is a passion that can only be unlocked and shared in a diverse culture of collaborative teamwork, where science and service intersect to make us proud of what we provide.
Waypoint Analytical offers passionate people from all walks-of-life opportunities to be part of something special. You may have the goal of helping to feed the world, protect our environment, or offer scientifically sound solutions to complex problems.
Waypoint Analytical is a wholly owned subsidiary of Nutrien, LTD.
The Analyst (Biology) will be responsible for performing analyses of client samples in the Biology laboratory using a variety of analytical techniques and procedures. You will have the opportunity to partner with knowledgeable laboratory professionals to prepare, test, and analyze different types of environmental compliance samples.
What you will do:
- Support the testing procedure through collection, preparation, and analysis of samples.
- Prepare the laboratory for daily operations, such as stocking materials, evaluating equipment, and performing safety and cleaning procedures.
- Ensure lab readiness and safety.
- Conduct sample testing procedures.
- Validate and report testing results.
- Follow safety protocols and quality control guidelines.
- Maintain valid and accurate documentation.
- Review, complete, and process logs and additional documentation as necessary.
- Perform analysis using different molecular biology techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, and amplicon sequencing.
- Conduct thorough literature reviews to identify and assess potential qPCR markers relevant to research objectives.
- Design, develop, and optimize qPCR markers for specific experimental targets.
- Validate qPCR markers using ground truth samples and amplicon sequencing, ensuring high levels of accuracy and reliability.
- Model our core value of safety by enabling a culture in which you are actively contributing to a safe work environment.
- Other duties as required.
What you will bring:
- Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, or a related field.
- Proficiency in core molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR, and qPCR).
- Demonstrated hands-on experience in the development and validation of qPCR markers.
- Practical experience with amplicon sequencing and bioinformatics analysis is preferred.
Waypoint Analytical is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.
This job will remain posted until filled. In accordance with Waypoint Analytical policies, you will be required to undergo a background check, and may be required to undergo a substance test. While we appreciate all applications we receive, only candidates under consideration will be contacted.
To stay connected to us and for the latest job postings and news, follow us on: LinkedIn, Indeed, and Facebook.
Nearest Major Market: Champaign
Nearest Secondary Market: Urbana