Biotechnology Lead

Seedworks International; Hyderabad; On-site; INR 3,000,000 - 4,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Seedworks International is seeking an experienced Lead Biotechnology to spearhead biotechnology research and lab operations supporting crop breeding and quality enhancement. You will establish modern biotechnology labs, manage genomics projects, and lead a high-performing team with strong emphasis on molecular biology, genomics, plant genetics, and bioinformatics.

The role requires a PhD in Biotechnology or related field, 4–10 years of industry experience, and proven leadership in agriculture or

Qualifications

• PhD in Biotechnology, Cell Biology, Life Sciences, or Molecular Biology.
• 4–10 years of industry experience.
• Leadership experience is mandatory.
• Experience in Agriculture/Seed biotechnology preferred.

Responsibilities

• Establish and manage biotechnology and cell biology labs for breeding and quality programs.
• Lead molecular breeding and genomics projects including marker discovery, GWAS, and QTL mapping.
• Plan genotyping projects and oversee data generation and analysis.
• Mentor the biotechnology team and conduct project reviews.
• Coordinate with breeders, QA/QC, and stakeholders for project execution.
• Develop and implement protocols, safety and quality standards.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication & presentation

Project & stakeholder management

Attention to detail

Education

PhD in Biotechnology or related fields

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Lead Biotechnology to lead biotechnology research and laboratory operations supporting crop breeding and quality enhancement programs. The role involves establishing modern biotechnology and cell biology laboratories, managing genomics and molecular breeding projects, developing marker technologies, and leading a high-performing biotechnology team. The ideal candidate should possess strong expertise in molecular biology, genomics, plant genetics, and bioinformatics, along with proven leadership experience in the agriculture or seed industry.

Educational Qualification

• Ph.D. in Biotechnology, Cell Biology, Life Sciences, or Molecular Biology from a reputed university with a strong academic record.

Experience

• Minimum 4-10 years of relevant industry experience.
• Prior experience in an leadership role is mandatory.
• Experience in an Agriculture / Seed Company, Research Institute, University, or Private Sector biotechnology organization is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory & Team Leadership

• Establish and manage modern biotechnology and cell biology laboratories for breeding and quality programs.
• Collaborate with breeders and quality control teams to define project requirements and execution plans.
• Prepare laboratory budgets and manage inventory, consumables, and equipment maintenance.
• Lead and mentor the biotechnology team to ensure timely, accurate, and cost-effective project execution.
• Conduct monthly and annual project review meetings and monitor overall laboratory performance.
• Introduce new technologies and improved laboratory techniques to enhance breeding efficiency and quality assurance.

Molecular Breeding & Genomics

• Plan, coordinate, and manage molecular breeding and quality control projects.
• Design and schedule genotyping projects and oversee data generation and analysis.
• Perform genotypic data analysis, phylogenetic analysis, and plant selection activities.
• Lead SNP marker discovery, marker design, and validation projects.
• Plan and execute QTL mapping and GWAS studies as per breeding program requirements.
• Develop efficient protocols for double haploid production in different crops.
• Conduct DNA isolation, DNA fingerprinting, hybrid purity testing, and zygosity analysis across crops.
• Monitor project progress and present technical updates and scientific findings to stakeholders.

Research & Protocol Development

• Design and implement research protocols and laboratory safety procedures.
• Ensure adherence to approved molecular breeding protocols and quality standards.
• Analyze experimental results and prepare scientific and technical reports.
• Stay updated with advances in plant biotechnology, genomics, molecular breeding, and bioinformatics.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and integrate suitable innovations into laboratory workflows.

Stakeholder Management

• Coordinate with breeding, R&D, QA/QC, and quality teams on project execution.
• Interact with technology providers, research organizations, patent holders, and government agencies.
• Support strategic projects related to molecular breeding, trait discovery, and quality enhancement.

Manpower & Capability Development

• Plan manpower requirements for laboratory operations and projects.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide technical feedback and mentoring.
• Train team members on laboratory techniques, data analysis, and safety practices.
• Identify recruitment needs and support hiring for biotechnology laboratory positions.

Key Result Areas (KRAs)

• Effective leadership and management of biotechnology laboratory operations.
• Timely and accurate delivery of genomics and molecular breeding data.
• Successful execution of trait discovery, mapping, GWAS, and marker development projects.
• Development and validation of new molecular markers.
• Improvement in protocol efficiency for PCR, ELISA, DNA isolation, and purity analysis.
• Enhanced sample processing throughput and data quality.

Required Technical Competencies

• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology
• Plant Genetics
• Genomics & Bioinformatics
• Biochemistry
• Biostatistics
• Molecular Marker Technologies
• QTL Mapping & GWAS
• DNA Fingerprinting & Purity Testing
• Laboratory Management
• Project Management

Required Skills

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Scientific data interpretation and reporting expertise.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously.
• High level of scientific integrity and attention to detail.

Preferred Candidate Profile

Candidates with hands-on experience in molecular breeding, genomics, trait discovery, marker-assisted selection, hybrid purity analysis, and biotechnology laboratory management in the agriculture or seed industry will be preferred.