Senior Research Associate, Phenotyping (Masters)

The position will manage a research program developing and deploying precision phenotyping technologies within an applied Product Development context. The goal of the position is to oversee and execute field experiments and perform data analytics to enable next-generation field evaluation and drive disruptive innovation in this area. The successful candidate will work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team to test, validate, and support deployment of precision phenotyping technologies into product development applications for several commercially important crops. The job position will be based in Johnston, Iowa (USA), however the successful candidate will be expected to coordinate and collaborate closely with scientists within specific crops. Domestic and international travel will be required. Evaluate and enhance field crop characterization and its application within an applied breeding context. The successful candidate will utilize next-generation phenotyping technologies and data analytics techniques to facilitate rapid integration into field characterization pipeline for commercially important crops. Responsibilities will include: Experimental design and execution, analysis of large (phenotypic, marker and pedigree) data sets for method and tool development, organization and summarization of key molecular breeding information and results for use across/within crop research programs, and develop new or adapt existing methods for crop-specific phenotyping activities. Manage and execute field experimentation protocols involving detailed physiological characterization under demanding field conditions. Quickly identify experimental and analysis issues, proposing solutions, and leading implementation of improvements. Develop phenotyping solutions adopting and adapting sensors, measurement equipment and hardware from various third party and internal sources. Communicate clearly, and concisely using both written and verbal skills with colleagues and collaborators, Promote positive and professional attitude and cooperative work relationships. Serve on teams for hardware and software development and trait validation activities and provide critical feedback throughout the development process. Stay abreast of relevant technologies via a combination of scientific reading, attendance at scientific conferences, technology scouting, connecting with vendors and potential public and private collaborators/service providers and leverage knowledge across the enterprise. Organize and supervise the work of research assistants and/or temporary employees.     Qualifications:M.S. in population genetics, ecology evolutionary biology, quantitative genetics, plant breeding, animal breeding, or a related field and 2 to 4 years industry experience preferred. Experience using Python, R, or similar programming languages to manipulate large datasets for custom analysis. Background in applying and interpreting statistical analysis of large datasets. Understanding and experience using statistical software for data analysis, data mining and prediction is desirable. Inquisitive nature with the interest, ability, drive and determination to