As ScreenSYS continues to grow, we are looking for a hands-on Research Assistant (f/m/d) to join our R&D team. You will work closely with experts in plant biology, data science, and laboratory automation to develop and run in vitro assays and regeneration workflows, with a strong emphasis on microscopy of living plant cells and data generation for automated pipelines.
You will report to the project lead.
Tasks
- Develop and perform plant cell isolation and culture assays (including protoplast and single-cell approaches)
- Establish, maintain, and optimise in vitro plant tissue cultures and regeneration protocols
- Apply in vitro technologies using single-cell and tissue culture methods, including genetic transformation where applicable
- Plan and execute experiments in automated or semi-automated environments, with a strong focus on live-cell microscopy
- Generate high-quality image data using conventional and digital microscopy and collaborate with data analysis colleagues
- Perform molecular analyses and reporter assays (for example RNA/DNA workflows, cloning support where relevant)
- Document, interpret, and communicate results internally and to external project partners
- Provide project updates and support planning using project management tools
- Support laboratory operations, safety, and ordering of project-specific supplies
Requirements
Essential qualifications and experience
- BTA/CTA/MTA/PTA certification, Bachelor’s degree (required) or Master of Science or higher (preferred) in plant sciences, plant cell and molecular biology, plant physiology, biotechnology, horticulture, agriculture, or a related field
- At least 2 years of relevant laboratory experience in a research assistant role or equivalent (more is an advantage)
- Strong practical skills in plant in vitro culture, ideally including protoplast or single-cell techniques, micropropagation, regeneration, and screening approaches
Experience working with laboratory instrumentation in a structured workflow environment, such as:
- Conventional and digital microscopy
- Flow cytometry and/or microfluidics
Liquid handling systems and automated screening pipelines
- Ability to plan and organise work effectively, both independently and within a team
- Comfortable working across multiple priorities and delivering results to timelines
- Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset in interdisciplinary teams
- Fluency in written and spoken English
Nice to have
Candidates with some of the following will be prioritised:
- Hands-on experience with single-cell techniques in monocot and dicot species
- Automated microscopy or high-content imaging experience
- Molecular cloning and RNA/DNA analysis experience
- Practical experience with liquid-handling robotics
- Experience with documentation systems and basic statistical analysis tools
- German language skills (written and spoken)
Benefits
What we offer
- A fixed-term contract (2 years) with an option to extend
- A dynamic R&D environment shaped by start-up pace and ownership
- An interdisciplinary, multinational, and collaborative team
- Competitive salary and annual performance bonus