Job Description

The IVB Team Lead - Senior Scientist will lead the cattle stem cell and advanced reproduction program within the Innovation group, providing both strategic direction and hands-on scientific leadership. This role oversees a team of 4–5 scientists and drives the development of robust, reproducible protocols for cattle stem cell culture, embryology, and cloning systems. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in stem cell biology, embryology, and experimental design, along with strong mentoring skills. This position plays a key role in translating innovative research into scalable solutions that advance the company’s commercial breeding initiatives.

This position reports to the Chief Scientific Officer, Recombinetics (URUS Innovation Group) and will be based in Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area (onsite collaboration required) 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Leadership

• Lead the cattle stem cell program by defining the experimental strategy, roadmap, milestones, and key readouts.

• Contribute to long-term research planning and innovation strategies, aligning program goals with company priorities.

Experimental Execution & Team Guidance

• Lead execution of stem cell experiments while maintaining high standards of rigor, documentation, and operational pace.

• Mentor and support scientists, providing guidance on troubleshooting, experimental design, and best practices.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with genomics, data science, and reproductive biology teams to coordinate priorities, workflows, and timelines.

• Ensure smooth integration of cross functional inputs into experimental plans and program decision making.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze and interpret complex datasets—including sequencing and multiomics—and synthesize insights for technical and nontechnical audiences.

• Communicate progress, risks, and scientific findings clearly and proactively.

Documentation & Quality Systems

• Develop and maintain robust documentation practices, including tracking systems, data records, and SOPs.

• Ensure all workflows support reliability, reproducibility, and efficient technology transfer.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Ph.D. in Reproductive Biology, Developmental Biology, Stem Cell Biology, Embryology, Computational Biology, or related field.

• Deep hands-on expertise in pluripotent stem cell culture, ideally in cattle or other mammalian systems.

• Strong proficiency in advanced reproductive technologies (e.g., cloning, IVF).

• Solid understanding of reproductive biology, molecular biology, and organoid culture systems.

• Experience with bioinformatics tools, databases, and genomic/proteomic data analysis.

• Working knowledge of probability, statistical modeling, and algorithm design (preferred).

• Experience modeling biological processes and molecular dynamics.

• Experience with implementation of artificial intelligence for biological modeling and predictions (preferred).

• Ability to translate biological questions into computational analyses (e.g., multiomics integration to identify genotype–phenotype links).

• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and interpret complex experiments.

• Strong troubleshooting instincts and evidence-based decision-making.

• Experience mentoring or leading others with a high standard of scientific rigor.

• Excellent communication skills for effective interdisciplinary collaboration and reporting.

• Adaptable, curious, and eager to learn new tools and methods in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong work ethic and team-first mindset, including willingness to perform hands-on work and support team needs.

Trans Ova Genetics, a member of the URUS Group, provides industry-leading reproductive technologies and expertise to cattle breeders through a unique professional services team that works closely with clients to understand their breeding goals and ultimately help clients advance and extend superior genetics. Trans Ova Genetics understands the process that will help multiply a herd’s genetic success. Reproductive technologies such as embryo transfer, in-vitro fertilization (IVF), sexed-semen, genetic preservation, and cloning are considered the reproductive “tools” available for breeders looking to achieve specific breeding and reproductive goals. Internationally recognized as a source of superior animal husbandry and reproductive expertise, Trans Ova Genetics offers an integrated system of regional centers, satellite stations, and on-farm application of reproductive technologies.

Trans Ova's headquarters are in Sioux Center, Iowa, but we have many offices and satellite centers across the country. On-going research and applied science allow Trans Ova Genetics to develop and implement new technologies to help move the science of bovine genetic improvement forward. Trans Ova is dedicated to meeting the requirements of their customers and to continual improvement.

TOG has deep roots in the industry through its origin within the URUS family of companies. As a holding company with cooperative and private ownership, URUS is a family of businesses at the heart of the dairy and beef industry – Alta Genetics, GENEX, Genetics Australia, Leachman Cattle, Jetstream, PEAK, SCCL, Trans Ova Genetics and VAS. Each organization has its unique identity, products, and services. These companies work globally to provide cutting-edge dairy and beef genetics, customized reproductive services to maximize conceptions, dairy management information to take producers to the frontline of progressive dairy farming, and an array of products and services to help bovines reach their full genetic potential. URUS has 9 brands in 17 retail countries and employs nearly 2,800 people globally.