As ScreenSYS continues to grow, we are looking for a hands-on Research Assistant (f/m/d) to join our R&D team. You will work closely with experts in plant biology, data science, and laboratory automation to develop and run in vitro assays and regeneration workflows, with a strong emphasis on microscopy of living plant cells and data generation for automated pipelines.

You will report to the project lead.

Tasks

• Develop and perform plant cell isolation and culture assays (including protoplast and single-cell approaches)
• Establish, maintain, and optimise in vitro plant tissue cultures and regeneration protocols
• Apply in vitro technologies using single-cell and tissue culture methods, including genetic transformation where applicable
• Plan and execute experiments in automated or semi-automated environments, with a strong focus on live-cell microscopy
• Generate high-quality image data using conventional and digital microscopy and collaborate with data analysis colleagues
• Perform molecular analyses and reporter assays (for example RNA/DNA workflows, cloning support where relevant)
• Document, interpret, and communicate results internally and to external project partners
• Provide project updates and support planning using project management tools
• Support laboratory operations, safety, and ordering of project-specific supplies

Requirements

Essential qualifications and experience

• BTA/CTA/MTA/PTA certification, Bachelor’s degree (required) or Master of Science or higher (preferred) in plant sciences, plant cell and molecular biology, plant physiology, biotechnology, horticulture, agriculture, or a related field

• At least 2 years of relevant laboratory experience in a research assistant role or equivalent (more is an advantage)

• Strong practical skills in plant in vitro culture, ideally including protoplast or single-cell techniques, micropropagation, regeneration, and screening approaches

• Experience working with laboratory instrumentation in a structured workflow environment, such as:

• Conventional and digital microscopy

• Flow cytometry and/or microfluidics

• Liquid handling systems and automated screening pipelines

• Ability to plan and organise work effectively, both independently and within a team

• Comfortable working across multiple priorities and delivering results to timelines

• Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset in interdisciplinary teams

• Fluency in written and spoken English

Nice to have

Candidates with some of the following will be prioritised:

• Hands-on experience with single-cell techniques in monocot and dicot species
• Automated microscopy or high-content imaging experience
• Molecular cloning and RNA/DNA analysis experience
• Practical experience with liquid-handling robotics
• Experience with documentation systems and basic statistical analysis tools
• German language skills (written and spoken)

Benefits

What we offer

• A fixed-term contract (2 years) with an option to extend
• A dynamic R&D environment shaped by start-up pace and ownership
• An interdisciplinary, multinational, and collaborative team
• Competitive salary and annual performance bonus