Research Associate - Plant Virology

Research Associate – Plant Virology

Silvec is a biotechnology and nanotechnology company focused on developing RNA-based solutions for plant pathogens and insect pests. Our lab leverages proprietary, cutting-edge RNA technologies to create environmentally responsible crop protection tools. Located in a 9,000 sq ft facility in Gaithersburg, Maryland—at the heart of the Washington DC biotech corridor—we maintain active collaborations with leading academic and federal research institutions.

Silvec is committed to fostering a dynamic environment where scientists can grow professionally and contribute to innovative R&D efforts. For more information on our company, visit www.silvec.com.

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Research Associate to join our discovery team focused on the development of Viral Induced Gene Silencing vectors (VIGS). This position supports both laboratory and greenhouse experiments aimed at evaluating the efficacy of the viral candidates.

The applicant must have hands-on experience working with plant-infecting viruses.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform in vitro and in vivo assays to evaluate viral candidates.
• Use molecular cloning to build VIGS systems.
• Inoculate plants, assess symptoms, perform nucleic acid extractions, PCR & qPCR.
• Maintain clear and organized records of methods, observations, and results; assist with data entry and basic analysis.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to execute experimental plans and troubleshoot technical issues.
• Monitor lab and greenhouse trials, identify routine issues, and escalate complex challenges as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience working with plant viruses.
• Hands-on expertise with molecular cloning and plant transformation.
• Proficiency in RNA handling, RNA extraction from plant samples, and PCR/qPCR.
• High attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative team environment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.

Preferred Skills

• Experience engineering or optimizing plant viral vectors.
• Knowledge of virus-host interactions and RNA silencing pathways.
• Background in plant tissue culture, microscopy and bioinformatics.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Plant Pathology, or a related field, with 5+ years of hands-on lab experience working with plant viruses.

or

• Master’s degree or PhD in Virology, Plant Pathology, or a related field, with 3+ years of hands-on lab experience working with plant viruses.

Candidate must already be authorized to work in the US

Salary: Starting at $70,000, commensurate with experience. Compensation includes healthcare coverage and matching 401(k).

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume for consideration to hiring@silvec.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• plant virology: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Gaithersburg, MD 20877 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Gaithersburg, MD 20877: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person