Molecular & Plant Biology Scientist – Screening & Assay Development

Micropep is building a more sustainable agriculture for future generations. We develop natural crop protection solutions based on the incredible potential of micropeptides, small natural protein molecules that target and regulate plant genes and proteins. We are building the next generation of sustainable solutions for farmers who care about their crops and the future of our planet.

Micropep was founded in 2016 as a spin-off of "LRSV", a French plant research laboratory of the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) and the University of Toulouse, a center of excellence in AgriTech. To date, Micropep has raised nearly $60 million from leading European and American investors and began its expansion in the United States in 2022.

We are a team of roughly 50 accomplished and motivated people from different scientific, technical and business backgrounds. We are united by our desire to leave a positive impact on our planet. Together, we are revolutionizing crop protection with our proprietary micropeptide technology.

About the Role

We are looking for a highly motivated scientist to join our Biology Department, working under the supervision of the Molecular Biology & In Vitro Screening Team Lead, with a focus on peptide screening for agricultural innovation. The role involves working across in vitro and in planta screening cascades using our micropep KrisalixTM platform, with the goal of identifying and validating peptide-based solutions across a range of biological indications.

Key Responsibilities

·      Conduct peptide screening cascades from in vitro to in planta phases.

·      Plan, execute, and report molecular biology and plant biology experiments.

·      Grow and maintain plants under controlled conditions for phenotyping studies.

·      Design, initiate, follow, and report on biochemical assays and molecular analyses.

·      Oversee and coordinate assay development and execution with external CRO partners.

·      Analyze and interpret experimental results.

·      Represent the biology function in dedicated projects; provide updates at project meetings and ensure timely reporting.

·      Collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary research team to integrate biological insights into discovery pipelines.

·      Keep up to date with the literature and latest discoveries in the field.

Required Qualifications & Experience

·      PhD or Master’s degree plus 5 years of relevant experience

·      Solid background in at least two of the following areas: biochemistry, molecular biology, and plant physiology

·      Experience with insecticides and plant pathogens is a plus

·      Demonstrated experience working in in vitro screening and assay development

·      Familiarity with high-throughput screening platforms and phenotyping

Desirable Qualifications & Soft skills

·      Excellent problem-solving skills, driven by a rigorous scientific mindset, strong curiosity, and creative thinking

·      Strong organization and planning skills

·      Able to work both independently and within a team

·      Fluent in English (written and spoken)

·      French language skills (a plus)

What We Offer

• A full-time, permanent position in an innovative research environment
• Hybrid work flexibility (1 day/week home office)
• Opportunity to work at the cutting edge of agricultural biotechnology
• A dynamic and inclusive team with a strong scientific focus
• A competitive salary package based on your profile and experience

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your motivation and relevant experience. Early applications are encouraged, and the position will remain open until filled.

Location: Auzeville-Tolosan, France (flexible with 1 day/week remote)

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Start Date: Within 4 weeks or as soon as possible

Application Deadline: Open until filled

Application Materials: Cover Letter + CV

Eligibility: Open to all qualified candidates