Team Lead – Technology Development

Tropic; Norwich; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private Medical Care

25 days annual leave

Life Assurance

Job summary

Tropic is seeking a talented scientist to lead the trait enablement arm of the TechDev team, guiding gene editing and RNAi initiatives in crops from Norwich, UK. You will oversee a team of researchers, drive project delivery, and shape scientific strategy while ensuring high-quality laboratory practice.

The role combines scientific leadership with people management, mentorship, and cross-functional collaboration to accelerate Tropic's crop improvement programmes.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Plant Biotechnology or related field.
• Proven ability to lead a team and deliver high-quality outputs under time pressure.
• Strong data analysis and evidence-based decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Own a portfolio of gene editing and RNAi projects in crops.
• Lead and mentor up to seven researchers and technical experts.
• Plan resources, manage risks, and deliver projects on time.
• Communicate progress and recommendations to stakeholders at all levels.
• Contribute to TechDev's scientific strategy and direction.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Data-driven decisions

Communication

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology/Plant Biotechnology

Tools

Gene editing

RNAi

Crop transformation

Job description

We are looking for a talented and experienced scientist to design and deliver innovative crop biotechnology projects through leadership of the trait enablement arm of the Technology Development (TechDev) team.

Job Purpose

Our TechDev team innovates across gene editing, RNAi, plant transformation and assay development to support Tropic's crop improvement programmes and accelerate research into real-world impact.

In this role, you will own the delivery of key, high-profile technology projects to support gene editing and RNAi implementation in crops. To achieve this, you will lead and manage the trait enablement team of up to seven researchers and technical experts.

You will combine scientific expertise with people and project management skills to plan and implement a portfolio of cutting-edge projects. You will be an excellent communicator who will contribute to team-wide scientific strategy, mentor colleagues and help shape TechDev's direction.

Responsibilities

• Own a portfolio of projects including gene editing optimization and novel RNAi strategies in crops
• Manage people and be responsible for their professional development
• Manage resource, mitigate risks and deliver projects on time
• Communicate progress, risks and recommendations clearly to colleagues and stakeholders at all levels.
• Contribute to TechDev's scientific strategy and direction beyond your own workstream.
• Mentor colleagues, share expertise generously and champion a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
• Maintain rigorous records and champion safe, high-quality laboratory practice.

Requirements

Technical

• PhD or equivalent in Molecular Biology, Plant Biotechnology or related field, with additional relevant postdoctoral or industry experience
• Proven ability to lead a team to deliver high-quality technical outputs under time pressure
• Proven ability to design and troubleshoot complex science plans
• Critically assess data and make evidence-based recommendations and decisions
• Expertise in crop transformation, gene editing or RNAi, particularly in an industry setting, is an advantage

Transferable

• Demonstrable ownership and accountability for your work, and your team's performance
• Proven management skills and drive to support the professional development of your team and colleagues
• Adaptable to evolving business needs, and able to deliver in a fast-paced, ambitious environment.
• Proactive, curious and innovative - someone who contributes beyond their own project and actively improves the team around them.
• Clear communicator to key stakeholders, meticulous record-keeper and genuine team player.

About Us

Tropic is one of the world's leading agricultural gene-editing companies. Our team is dedicated to the development and commercialization of high-performing varieties of tropical crops to provide significant benefits to growers, processors and consumers globally, tackling real-world problems around food security and sustainability.

We use our proprietary GEiGS® platform and cutting-edge gene editing tools to develop improved varieties with higher yields, disease resistance and sustainability traits. TheTechDev team is a central hub for the development and implementation of new technologies that address global agricultural challenges.

Why Join Tropic?

• Lead a technology team, with direct impact on Tropic's pipeline and science strategy.
• Science with real stakes - crops that feed and sustain billions.
• Tailored career development as the team and company scales, with cross-functional visibility across R&D.
• Social events throughout the year.
• Competitive package including Private Medical Care, Medical Cash Plan, 25 days annual leave and Life Assurance.

Further Information

• Location - Norwich, UK
• Contract - Full Time, Permanent
• Closing Date - 2nd October 2026