Senior Lab technician - Plant Biology/transformation

Job Title: Senior Lab technician - Plant Biology/transformation

Location: Ghent, Belgium

Department: Research & DevelopmentType: Full-timeAbout Rainbow CropsRainbow Crops leverages multiplex genome editing, precision breeding, and AI to engineer crops with the genetic superpower to adapt to climate challenges, reduce chemical inputs, and enhance nutritional value.

By targeting complex traits and improving multiple characteristics simultaneously, our technology tackles plant traits that have historically been difficult to enhance. We partner with seed companies and nonprofits to develop and make these advanced plant genetics accessible, benefiting farmers, consumers, and the environment, while driving sustainability and global food security. www.rainbowcrops.com Position OverviewWe are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Plant Transformation Technician to join our R&D team in Ghent, Belgium. In this role, you will be key to planning, preparing, and executing crop transformation experiments, performing molecular characterization, and managing plant care in the greenhouse. You will work closely with research scientists and lab staff to advance gene editing and precision breeding initiatives, drive protocol optimizations, and support sustainable crop development in a fast-paced startup environment.Main Responsibilities1. Plant transformationPlan, prepare and execute multiple crop transformation experiments.Prepare media and reagents for plant transformation.Transformation of different crop species using Agrobacterium-mediated transformation or similar technologies.2. Molecular cloning and plant characterizationClone vectors and prepare Agrobacteria for plant transformation.Perform molecular characterization of transgenic and gene edited plants.3. Plant managementPlant handling, care, and crossing of transgenic and gene edited plants in the greenhouse.Implement stewardship measures and responsibly manage biological samples.Key Skills and Personal AttributesTechnical Proficiency: Advanced knowledge of plant transformation, tissue culture, and plant molecular characterisation (DNA, RNA, and proteins). Basic knowledge of molecular cloning and plant handling.Organizational Mastery: Ability to track an extensive amount of plasmids, transformation projects, plant samples and seed packets.Improvement oriented: A "fix-it" mindset, whether it's a failed experiment or being able to optimize protocols and procedures.Strong Communication: Excellent ability to coordinate between research scientists, greenhouse staff, and lab personnel.Leadership & Collaboration: Ability to lead optimizations while working side-by-side with scientists.Adaptability: Thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment, adjusting quickly to new challenges and technological advancements.QualificationsEducation: Bachelor’s in Plant Biology, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or a related field, or equivalent by experience.Experience: 5+ years of hands-on experience.Advanced knowledge of plant transformation, tissue culture, molecular characterization, including the isolation and analysis of DNA, RNA, and proteins (e.g., qPCR).Biotech Fundamentals: Basic knowledge of molecular cloning techniques.Why Join Us?Be part of a forward-thinking company shaping the future of sustainable agriculture.Collaborate with a talented, diverse team on cutting-edge technologies.Competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth. Application ProcessInterested candidates should submit their CV and cover letter detailing their qualifications and interest in the role to careers@rainbowcrops.com.