Biotechnologist (Graduate Research Assistant)

About us:

APPLIED AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES Sdn. Bhd. was established in 1986 and is an associate company of two highly successful public-listed Malaysian companies, Boustead Plantations Berhad and Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad. As a leading research centre in tropical plantation crops, our core activities involve research in crop improvement and production, providing advisory services for plantation crops, and producing and selling oil palm tissue culture ramets and seeds.

Our research programme is strategically focused on improving productivity and efficiency in estates. We use the latest research findings, innovations, and technological advances in crop science and information technology. We engage in collaborative research with both local and overseas universities, research institutions, and commercial companies. Our research findings are published in high-impact journals and presented at conferences worldwide. For more detailed information about our activities, please visit our website at www.aarsb.com.my.

About the Research Unit:

The AAR Biotechnology Section is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge molecular biotechnological approaches to revolutionise oil palm breeding, propagation, and molecular plant pathology. Our mission is to expedite plant breeding and introduce genetics-based solutions to the industry's challenges through innovation and advanced molecular techniques. Join us in our journey to set new standards in agricultural biotechnology.

Your Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Biotechnologist to join our team on a two-year contract, with the potential for an extension based on performance.

• Duration: Two years, with the possibility of extension at two-year intervals.
• Performance Evaluation: Based on performance and contribution to the laboratory, successful candidates may have the opportunity to transition to permanent employment.

Requirements:

• Minimum of Bachelor's Degree in Plant Science or other related disciplines.
• Experience working in a biotechnology or molecular biology laboratory. A candidate with 1 to 2 years of recent related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience is preferred.
• The candidate should be proficient in spoken and written English.

Responsibilities:

• Guided by standard procedures to perform genetic testing of oil palm samples and establish new standard operating procedures for sampling of oil palm tissue, DNA archiving system, and crop improvement related new techniques development.
• Facilitate arranging preventive equipment maintenance for high-throughput oil palm DNA extraction, quality control, genotyping, and report generation.
• Responsible for routine laboratory upkeep (such as hygiene, ensuring lab equipment is in good working condition, scheduled waste disposal, etc.), operating a lab washer guided by safe work procedures, and managing chemicals and consumables.

Additional Skills and Notes:

• Good communication skills and Good organisation skills
• Able to work in a team as well as independently.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: RM4,050.00 - RM5,000.00 per month

Benefits:

• Free parking
• Maternity leave
• Opportunities for promotion
• Parental leave
• Professional development

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Supplemental Pay:

• Yearly bonus

Education:

• Diploma/Advanced Diploma (Preferred)

Language:

• English (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 50% (Required)

Expected Start Date: 03/01/2025