About

• Description
• The Desert Botanical Garden (DBG) is launching its new CryoBiorepository and Conservation CryoBank—an ambitious initiative to preserve living plants, cell lines, and genomes of endangered desert species at ultra-low temperatures. To support this groundbreaking effort, DBG seeks a Biodiversity CryoBioTechnician to help pioneer the Garden’s cryotechnology program and drive innovation in plant conservation science. This position plays a key role in developing and applying advanced cryopreservation methods for cactus and agave species, integrating laboratory research, tissue and cell culture, and genetic resource management. The CryoBioTechnician will also coordinate volunteers, maintain sample collections, and assist in the international exchange of biological materials within DBG’s network of botanical collaborators. By combining biotechnology, conservation, and global collaboration, this role contributes directly to establishing DBG as a leader in the next generation of desert plant preservation.

Position Information

• This is a full-time, non-exempt position funded by a two-year IMLS grant.

• Position Purpose
• The Biodiversity CryoBioTechnician will launch and foster the development of cryotechnology capabilities at the DBG, becoming a specialist and emerging leader in these technologies worldwide. The technician will receive advanced training and acquire the technical expertise necessary to establish DBG’s protocols, procedures, and policies for the operation of the CryoBiorepository and Conservation CryoBank. As a specialist in innovative technologies for the ex situ conservation of endangered plants, their germplasm, and genetic material, the Biodiversity CryoBioTechnician will coordinate and implement key cryobiotechnology activities, including sample collection, cryogenic preservation, DNA and RNA extraction, and the development of cell lines and tissue cultures from endangered cactus and agave species. The position also leads the recruitment, training, and supervision of volunteers supporting cryobank operations and contributes to the coordination of international partnerships and the exchange of biological materials with DBG’s network of botanical collaborators.
• Essential Duties
• Conduct and support tissue, seed, and pollen collection, processing, and cryogenic storage.
• Establish and maintain plant cell and tissue cultures from endangered cactus and agave species.
• Perform DNA and RNA extractions and assist with molecular and cryogenic assays.
• Recruit, train, and coordinate interns, students and volunteers assisting with lab and conservation tasks.
• Maintain organized laboratory operations, equipment, and digital records.
• Support the international exchange of biological materials with DBG’s partner institutions.
• Collaborate with scientists and conservation partners to advance cryobiotechnology initiatives.
• Contribute to reports, workshops, and outreach activities showcasing DBG’s cryotechnology work.
• Requirements
• Competencies
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, plant sciences, biotechnology, or a related field (M.S. preferred) or related work experience.
• Experience or willingness to learn plant cell and tissue culture, molecular biology, and cryopreservation techniques.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in laboratory procedures and data management.
• This position requires ability to self-learn, work independently, and problem-solve in a research and conservation setting.
• Ability to train, supervise, and coordinate volunteers or students in scientific and conservation tasks.
• Knowledge of IUCN-Red List, CITES, Nagoya Protocol, or phytosanitary regulations related to plant material exchange (preferred).
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills; ability to collaborate across departments and with external partners.
• Bilingual abilities preferred (not required) Spanish or Portuguese in addition to English.
• Commitment to innovation, conservation, and the mission of the Desert Botanical Garden through scientific rigor and teamwork.
• Equipment Used
• Typical office equipment. This role will also use research tools, lab and field research equipment.
• Internal Communication
• Regular communication with Garden employees and volunteers.
• External Communication
• Occasional communication with external partners.
• Working Conditions
• Physical demands include both those associated with a normal office environment, and outdoor work, which could be in the Garden, or in the field (local, regional, national).
• Must be able to walk, sit, stand, stoop, kneel, bend, see, hear, speak, read, and type. Manual dexterity and the ability to lift up to 25 pounds required. Many tasks will be outdoors and subject to extreme weather.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made, when necessary and feasible, to allow a qualified individual to perform essential job functions.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Desert Botanical Garden is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by law.
• The Garden fosters and supports workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion to honor the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions of all, to celebrate successes, and to cultivate individual and institutional excellence.
• All employees will help add to the Garden’s diversity and fully embrace it.

• This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and deliverables of the role. This is not a contract and should not be viewed as such. Other duties may be assigned by supervisor and/or his/her/their designee.