Lab Specialist - Molecular Technologies

About the role

We are seeking a Lab Specialist in Molecular Technologies to join BASF’s Agricultural Solutions team in Research Triangle Park, NC. The role supports the Seeds, Technologies, and Analytics (STA) Labs by delivering DNA, RNA and protein‑based methods for soybean crop research.

Key responsibilities

• Perform RNA‑based expression analysis in a wet‑lab setting using real‑time PCR systems, liquid‑handling robots and sequencing platforms.
• Troubleshoot and optimise protocols to improve assay efficiency, reduce cost and scale methods from development to high‑throughput production.
• Provide technical expertise for assay development, optimisation and roll‑out to internal customers.
• Analyse data outputs with specialised software, identify issues and communicate results to the team.
• Collaborate with Process Lead, Global Methods team and LIMS specialists to document workflows and integrate scoring templates.
• Coordinate with greenhouse and breeding teams on sample quality, timelines and data delivery, flagging any bottlenecks.

Required profile

• Hands‑on experience developing and optimising fluorescence‑based expression assays using RNA from plant material.
• Proven ability to implement sequencing, expression assays and molecular analytics across diverse platforms.
• Strong problem‑solving mindset with a focus on automation and process efficiency.

Required skills

• RNA expression analysis
• Real‑time PCR
• Liquid‑handling automation
• Sequencing instruments
• Fluorescence‑based assay development
• Data analysis software
• LIMS integration