Fungal Discovery & Genomics Co-Op

In this co-op role you will support the discovery and characterization of entomopathogenic fungi for insect control applications. You will gain hands-on experience in microbiology fungal biology molecular biology and biotechnology research developing and optimizing fungal isolation methods collecting and culturing fungi from environmental samples.

YOUR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and optimize protocols for the isolation purification and cultivation of diverse fungal species from environmental samples;
• Screen identify and maintain fungal isolates;
• Document isolate metadata and maintain accurate laboratory records;
• Assist with DNA extraction and sample preparation for genome sequencing and downstream analyses;
• Collaborate with microbiology genomics and bioinformatics scientists to characterize newly isolated strains;
• Present research findings and project updates to the broader team.

Additional Opportunities:

• Develop and pilot a transcriptomics-based workflow to support fungal toxin annotation and candidate gene discovery;
• Contribute to data analysis and interpretation of RNA-seq datasets to help identify genes associated with insecticidal activity.

WHO YOU ARE

Desired Qualifications:

• Pursuing a Masters or Ph.D. degree in Microbiology Molecular Biology Genetics Biotechnology Plant Pathology or a related field;
• Experience with microbial or fungal culturing techniques is preferred;
• Strong laboratory documentation and organizational skills;
• Interest in genomics bioinformatics or functional characterization of natural products;
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Employees can expect to be paid a salary of approximately between $22.75 to $47.75. Additional compensation may include a bonus or commission (if relevant). Additional benefits may include health care vision dental retirement PTO sick leave etc (if relevant). This salary (or salary range) is merely an estimate and may vary based on an applicants location market data/ranges an applicants skills and prior relevant experience certain degrees and certifications and other relevant factors.

This posting will be available for application until at least March 19 2027