Grow with Robigo

  • As we become industry leaders, you can too. Come play a role in shaping the direction of our technology and company culture.

  • After demonstrating strong translation from lab-to-field, we are excited to be accelerating product development and commercial advancement of our lead programs.

  • We value our people and compensate them accordingly. You can expect unlimited PTO, healthcare coverage, a competitive salary, and a benefits package that is thoughtfully designed.

  • Our lab and office is located within The Engine by MIT, an incubator for deep tech companies in the heart of Cambridge. In addition to top of the line equipment, you can expect to meet smart people working on tough technical problems and endless cold brew on tap.

We’re engineering first-in-class microbes to solve ag’s most pressing problems, and we’re looking for exceptional teammates and collaborators.

Scientist, Plant Science

Level flexible: Scientist I, II, Sr. Scientist

Location: Cambridge, MA

Position Overview

This position will lead controlled-environment plant assays that are central to advancing Robigo’s microbial biopesticide pipeline. They will standardize assays, screen product candidates, and generate high-quality data to determine which products advance into field trials. In addition, the role includes managing experiments across multiple growth chambers, overseeing research associates, and collaborating with Product Development, Strain Engineering, and Regulatory Science teams to ensure rigorous evaluation of Robigo’s products.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary: Commensurate with experience

  • Equity:  Stock Options 

  • Benefits

    • 4% 401K Match

    • Medical - 100% coverage via United Health

    • Dental - 100% coverage via BCBS

    • Unlimited PTO within reason

    • Holidays: All federal holidays + week between Xmas and New Years

Responsibilities

  • Conduct, refine, and expand Robigo’s core plant science efficacy assays in soybean and lettuce.

  • Increase experimental consistency by standardizing pathogen inoculum, plant growth conditions, and phenotype measurements.

  • Evaluate product performance across:

    • Compatibility with partner chemistries and products

    • New strains, doses, and formulations

    • Application methods and on-seed product stability

    • Additional plant cultivars

  • Develop and implement new assays for additional crops (e.g., corn) and pathogens, including RNAi plant modulation studies.

  • Manage and mentor 1–2 research associates, ensuring efficient use of 4–8 state-of-the-art growth chambers.

  • Support Product Development in seed safety studies, application method development, and formulation development.

  • Support Strain Engineering and Regulatory Science teams with plant data for mode-of-action studies, pathogen evaluations, and regulatory dossiers.

  • Contribute to experimental design, statistical analysis, and thorough reporting of results.

  • Drive adoption of best practices for plant assay operations, including automation opportunities to increase efficiency.

  • Perform additional responsibilities or special projects as requested to support Robigo’s strategic objectives.

Education & Experience

  • PhD or MS in plant biology, plant pathology, or related discipline, with commensurate experience in agricultural R&D.

  • Industry experience in agricultural biologicals or crop protection strongly preferred.

Must-haves

  • Strong scientific rigor and accountability in designing, executing, and reporting experiments.

  • Experience screening crop protection products against plant pathogens in controlled environments.

  • Excellent organizational and time-management skills; ability to manage multiple experiments and associates to meet deadlines.

Nice-to-haves

  • Background in biological products or soil-borne disease studies (soybean and/or lettuce preferred).

  • Experience with plant assay automation and high-throughput methods.

  • Familiarity with RNAi applications in plants.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Accountability in all engagements; pride in producing high-quality, reproducible work.

  • Curiosity and openness to learning; strong listening skills and collaborative mindset.

  • Even-keeled temperament; able to engage in calm, respectful debates focused on data and outcomes.

  • Approaches work with humility; contributes wherever needed.

How to apply

  • Submit your CV to grow@robigo.bio

  • Please include a short description of why this position is interesting to you; No formal cover letter necessary.

  • Please indicate your estimated availability to start.

Robigo, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, ethnicity, or any other characteristic protected by law.