Research Scientist – Sperm Physiology (Deforest, WI)

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 leverage advanced cellular and molecular techniques to improve sperm health, functionality, and integrity—key factors in enhancing fertility outcomes and accelerating genetic progress. You will lead pioneering research aimed at developing next‑generation sperm sexing technologies and optimizing sexed semen products. Your expertise in developmental biology, in vivo sperm production systems, and the molecular mechanisms underlying sperm maturation will be critical to your success.

You will also evaluate the reproductive potential of sperm exposed to various processing-related stressors and identify strategies to preserve or enhance their functional resilience. Using cutting-edge tools—including molecular assays, flow cytometry, ddPCR, ELISA, and advanced imaging—you will assess sperm viability and overall reproductive performance to support the creation of healthy, sustainable pregnancies.

 

This role offers a unique opportunity to blend scientific leadership with innovation that directly contributes to global food security and the future of sustainable animal agriculture.

The ideal candidate will be highly collaborative, thriving within cross-functional and multicultural teams. Strong interpersonal skills, clear scientific communication, and the ability to translate complex concepts for diverse audiences are essential. You should bring strong analytical thinking, creativity, and a passion for advancing animal agriculture through new technologies and bold scientific approaches.

 

This position is onsite at our Deforest, WI headquarters and requires approximately 10% travel, 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 evidence-based 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

Basic Qualifications: (required)

• Master's 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:
  • Deep expertise in sperm physiology, reproductive biology, or related fields, with a strong foundation in cellular and molecular biology.
  • 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.
  • Proven ability to designing and executing complex experiments with precision, creativity, and data-driven rigor.
  • 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 mind