Visiting Crop Transformation Facility (CTF) Mngr RIPE - Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Visiting Crop Transformation Facility (CTF) Mngr RIPE - Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology
Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology
Job Summary
The chosen candidate will serve as manager and research developer for the CTF pipeline transformation pipeline in soybean. The candidate will aid RIPE researchers with design of CRIPSR gene edited and genetically modified constructs. The CTF manager will train and supervise a team of technicians in genetic transformation, regeneration of plants through to greenhouse culture, and provide confirmation of transformation through sequencing and expression analysis. The role also includes building and managing databases to track all transformed material and genotypic characterization of such from generation through to T2 harvest.Duties & Responsibilities
- Manage order submission, construct assembly and plant transformation for RIPE transgenic and gene editing projects.
- Aid RIPE researchers with construct design.
- Adapt and develop pipelines to ensure optimal transformation efficiency.
- Facilitate traceability and documentation between managed pipelines, using Smartsheet project management software.
- Co-ordinate and report deliverables to RIPE Project Managers and Directorate.
- Supervise technicians’ workload and manage day-to-day activities.
Additional Physical Demands
This position will involve office, lab, and field work.Minimum Qualifications
Master’s degree in Biology, Biotechnology Plant Sciences or other closely related field. Experience with construct design, molecular cloning and plant transformation.
Preferred Qualifications
PhD degree in Plant Sciences, Biotechnology, or closely related field.
Experience with the following:
o Prime editing and CRISPR-Cas 9 construct design,
o Project management software,
o Team supervision and management,
o Reporting timelines and deliverables to management.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Background in plant molecular biology, cloning, and plant transformation.
- Ability to lead, train and motivate a team.
- Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse team.
- Ability to maintain electronic records.
- Excellent attention to detail and timelines.
- Knowledge of gene editing techniques, project management software, plant molecular biology preferred.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Visiting Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 10/16/2025. The budgeted annual salary for this position is $52,000 to $64,000, plus eligible benefits. We strive to provide a competitive salary, considering factors such as available market data, internal equity, candidate experience and qualifications, collective bargaining agreements, and budget constraints. The final salary offer will be determined through a thorough assessment of these elements.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jana Lenz at janalenz@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
The University of Illinois offers a very competitive benefits portfolio, depending on the position. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1032759
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu