Researcher Molecular Plant Developmental Biology

In this position, you will connect research and breeding building new gene-based insights for agronomic traits. Join our multidisciplinary team that uses cutting-edge technologies and strengthen our R&D labs.

Netherlands , Fijnaart
Laboratory | Research & Breeding
PhD

Apply now

Your job at Rijk Zwaan

As researcher, you will be embedded in our Trait Biology department that focuses on studying the genetic basis of plant development traits using state-of-the-art molecular technologies. In close consultation with our breeders, this knowledge is translated into the development of new varieties with improved agronomic traits. As an innovator and hands-on researcher, you will be responsible for running different research programs applying molecular, genetics, and cell biology techniques. Both as project lead and in a support role, you will work in multidisciplinary teams together with technicians, other researchers and breeding departments on selected traits in different crops. Daily, you will be involved in:

Designing hypothesis-driven experiments
Internalizing the latest ideas on plant development
Building strategic networks both internally and with academia to strengthen this program
Executing and analysing plant experiments applying big data skills when needed
Work with and supervise technicians and interns
Report and translate your results into tangible breeding outcomes

Where will you be working?

Rijk Zwaan is an international family-owned company with a people-oriented culture. Rijk Zwaan is at the beginning of the food chain. We develop vegetable and fruit varieties and sell seeds to growers and other chain partners all over the world. We make an important contribution to the world food supply.In our laboratories about 100 colleagues work in the field of plant biotechnology. Working as a researcher in Rijk Zwaan means working in an environment where you can put the results of fundamental research into practice. You will work in our R&D team which currently consists of 31 colleagues.

Your contribution:

You are a proactive researcher with strong communication and analytical skills. You are highly motivated to perform fundamental research on plant developmental biology and then translate this knowledge to applications in our breeding programs. You are a creative person that thrives on challenges, recognizes opportunities and seeks innovative solutions to achieve results and open new avenues in your research projects. Furthermore, you are motivated to work on multiple lines of research simultaneously across multidisciplinary teams, have affinity with Big Data and in-depth biological knowledge for hypothesis generation. You can balance competing priorities and are able to deal with ambiguity.In addition, we can find the following on your CV:

A completed PhD in Plant developmental biology with a strong basis in molecular biology or related fields
Extensive experience with molecular biology, gene studies and genetic networks
Demonstrable knowledge of the latest technological developments in developmental biology
A good understanding of the plant breeding process and agronomy traits

What can you expect from us?

Besides availability of state-of-the-art technology which allows you to put scientific research into practice, we are happy to offer you:

A permanent contract from the start (preferably 38 hours per week, 30 is also possible)

Good salary based on job level and experience
Various training opportunities through our Rijk Zwaan Academy and international conferences related to the work field
25 vacation days and a vitality day
Rijk Zwaan Fit, with things like running groups and discounts on your gym membership
Daily fresh soup, fruit, and/or salads

Interested?

Let’s work together for the vegetables of tomorrow!Click on 'Apply now' to apply directly and upload your CV and motivational letter. Because your application will be carefully assessed by several people, you will receive a response within 10 working days. Assessment will be a part of the procedure.