Description

Role Overview

Genus plc Company has an exciting opportunity. We are looking for an ambitious, highly motivated Research Scientist – Sperm Physiology (Deforest, WI) to drive innovation in reproductive science.  

In this role, you will apply advanced cellular and molecular approaches to improve sperm health, functionality, and integrity—critical factors in enhancing fertility outcomes and genetic progress.

You will lead pioneering research focused on developing novel sperm sexing technologies and optimizing sexed semen products. Your expertise in developmental biology, in- vivo sperm production, and the molecular and functional mechanisms governing sperm maturation will be essential. This position also involves evaluating the reproductive potential of sperm exposed to diverse processing-related stressors and identifying strategies to preserve or enhance their functional integrity.

Working with cutting-edge tools—including molecular techniques, flow cytometry, ddPCR, ELISA, and advanced imaging technologies, you will assess sperm viability and efficiency in creating healthy pregnancies. This is a unique opportunity to combine scientific leadership with innovation that directly impacts global food security and sustainable agriculture.

The successful candidate will possess a collaborative mindset, thriving in cross-functional, multicultural teams and building strong interpersonal relationships. You will bring exceptional communication and presentation skills with the ability to convey scientific concepts clearly to diverse audiences as well as strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. This role will require adaptability and innovation, with a passion for advancing animal agriculture through technology and challenging conventional approaches.

This position is based on site in the Deforest headquarter’ s office in WI, with travel approximately of 10%, both domestically and internationally.

The salary for this position starts at $114,000 USD. The amount provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. Genus considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.

You will:

•         Lead innovative research projects applying cellular and biochemical strategies using evidencebased methods.
•         Investigate sperm-environment interactions through functional assays spanning molecular mechanisms to whole-cell physiology.
•         Serve as a subject matter expert in sperm physiology while maintaining proficiency in advanced cellular and biochemical analysis techniques.
•         Design and execute experiments with precision, creativity, and data-driven rigor to deliver impactful results.
•         Collaborate across global teams including Biosystems Engineering, IntelliGen Technologies, IVF labs, Gene Editing, and external partners to drive integrated solutions.
•         Optimize sexed semen products and contribute to breakthrough reproductive technologies that shape the future of animal agriculture.
•         Ensure accurate data management, communicate findings effectively, and lead experimental design initiatives.
•         Support regulatory and intellectual property strategies to enable product approval and protect innovation.
•         Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, challenging assumptions and delivering solutions that advance genetic progress and sustainability.
• Commitment to quality and compliance, supporting regulatory and intellectual property strategies to protect and advance innovation.

Requirements

Qualifications Basic Qualifications: (required)

•         Advanced Degree in Animal Science, Cell Biology, Reproductive Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Veterinary Science, or a related field. 
•         A minimum of 5 years of relevant research experience in mammalian sperm biology, including: 

o   Deep expertise in sperm physiology, reproductive biology, or related fields, with a strong foundation in cellular and molecular biology.

o   Hands-on experience with state-of-the-art techniques such asSperm handling and cryopreservation, Sperm functional assays (motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction, membrane integrity), IVF and embryo culture, flow cytometry, ddPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, and advanced imaging technologies.

o   Proven ability to designing and executing complex experiments with precision, creativity, and data-driven rigor.

o   Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, capable of interpreting complex datasets and translating findings into actionable insights.

•         Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey scientific concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
•         Collaborative mindset, thriving in cross-functional, multicultural teams and building strong interpersonal relationships.
•         Adaptability and innovation, with a passion for advancing animal agriculture through technology and challenging conventional approaches.
•         Fluent written and spoken English.
•         Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, experience with statistical software like JMP or Origin Lab.

Preferred Qualifications:

•         PhD in Animal Science, Cell Biology, Reproductive Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Veterinary Science, or a related field with a minimum of two years of post-PhD experience
•         Demonstrated expertise in independent scientific endeavors, including publications in peer-reviewed journals, participation in scientific societies, and collaborative research.
•         Experience in training and managing team members. 
•         Competence in presenting and publishing scientific data
•         Demonstrated ability to implement research plans and achieve results
•         Excels at interpersonal relationships, with a positive attitude towards others
•         An understanding of the bovine and porcine genetics/semen industry in the US and globally
•         An understanding of the commercial dairy, beef, and porcine industries

Business Overview

Genus is an agricultural biotechnology pioneer. We are a global FTSE 250 company, headquartered in the UK, and listed on the London Stock Exchange.  Genus PLC has a presence in over 70 countries and a global workforce of over 3,000 employees and growing.  We are a worldwide leader in porcine and bovine animal genetics, partnering with farmers to transform how we nourish the world – a mission that is important to a sustainable future. 

Our vision is clear: Pioneering animal genetic improvement to help nourish the world. 

Benefits Overview

At Genus we offer a competitive salary. Benefits include health, dental, vision, FSA/HSA, long and short-term disability, 401K, tuition reimbursement, paid holidays and ETO (employee time off). This position will have opportunity for growth. 

Equal Employment Opportunities

Genus is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. Genus prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Genus conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations. 

Recruitment Fraud Warning

Genus plc will never ask you to provide fees or payment for computer, software, or other equipment or supplies during the recruitment and/or onboarding process. If you have any questions about your individual application, please contact the Genus Talent Acquisition team at recruiting@genusplc.com.