Research Associate Jobs

About FYTO

Do you strive to improve the world through sustainable agriculture? Do you want to develop technological solutions to grow more food while using fewer resources? FYTO grows unique aquatic plants through innovative automated processes to generate high quality feed, food, and fertilizer products with a dramatically lower carbon footprint. The company’s patent-pending technology produces nutrient-dense ingredients using much less energy, water, land, labor, and fertilizer than conventional choices. Our company launched out of MIT in 2019 and is backed by leading technology investors including GV / Google Ventures.

About The Role

We’re seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Field Research Associate to gather and analyze scientific data of our aquatic plants. This position is based on our commercial farm in the San Joaquin Valley. The candidate should be a creative and curious problem solver with the ability to work independently and use good judgement. This role will require some travel to farms in the Central Valley and occasionally to our R&D site in Sonoma County.

What You’ll Do

• Conduct initial site screening experiments at potential future sites in the Central Valley
• Set up experiments - collect and analyze data
• Work with Operations Team to ensure productive and consistent growth operations
• Collaborate and communicate with Plant Science team with field site updates and issues

Requirements

• Have a valid driver’s license and good driving record
• Experience conducting scientific experiments and data collection
• Quick learner who is flexible, self-motivated, able to ask questions, and thrive in a startup environment
• Ability to work with minimal supervision in remote locations as well as with a team
• Basic computer skills, including experience with MS Office (Excel, Powerpoint, and Word)
• Bachelor’s degree in physical or biological sciences or engineering

Other Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge and experience with agriculture in California
• Background in plant science, horticulture, agronomy, botany, farming or related field

Physical Activity Requirements

• Climb, jump, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch and install equipment
• Walk across a variety of terrains, including uneven surfaces
• Stand for extended time periods
• Lift and carry 25 lbs. but occasionally up to 50 lbs
• Work in conditions with varying humidity, sunlight and temperatures (32 o – 95o depending on the season)

FYTO is committed to equal opportunity and complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. FYTO does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its recruitment processes and employment practices.

Benefits

The pay range is currently between $65,000 to $80,000 in annual gross compensation. Equity compensation is additional. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.