Position Summary
Biophi-SEF is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Tissue Culture Technician to support the production of high-quality plant material through plant tissue culture and greenhouse operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting with all stages of micropropagation, including media preparation, culture initiation, multiplication, rooting, acclimatization, and greenhouse support activities.
This position is ideal for an individual who enjoys hands-on laboratory work, follows procedures carefully, and is committed to producing high-quality plant material in an aseptic environment.
Key Responsibilities
Tissue Culture Operations
- Prepare tissue culture media, stock solutions, and reagents according to established protocols.
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, including autoclaves, pH meters, balances, and laminar flow hoods.
- Perform aseptic transfers, subculturing, culture initiation, multiplication, rooting and hardening-off of plant material.
- Monitor cultures for contamination, growth performance, and overall quality.
- Maintain accurate records of culture batches, production activities, and laboratory inventory.
- Assist with protocol implementation and process improvements.
- Follow laboratory SOPs and quality control procedures.
Research and Development Support
- Support research projects aimed at improving culture establishment, multiplication, rooting, acclimatization, and overall plant quality.
- Collect, record, and analyze experimental data related to plant growth, development, and performance.
- Assist in designing and conducting small-scale trials to assess the effectiveness of new protocols, substrates, containers, and cultivation techniques.
- Participate in troubleshooting culture-related issues and identifying opportunities for process improvement.
- Support technology transfer of successful research outcomes into commercial production.
Greenhouse and Plant Production Support
- Assist with acclimatization and hardening-off of tissue culture-derived plants.
- Support transplanting and general plant care activities.
- Participate in data collection and evaluation of plant performance.
Qualifications
Required
- Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Horticulture, Biology, Biotechnology, Agriculture, or a related field.
- Experience working in a plant tissue culture laboratory or similar laboratory environment.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established protocols.
- Good organizational and record-keeping skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
- Ability to perform repetitive manual tasks requiring fine motor skills.
- Ability to work in both laboratory and greenhouse environments.
Key Competencies
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving skills
- Adaptability and willingness to learn
- Commitment to quality and continuous improvement
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00-$22.00 per hour
Work Location: In person