Plant Breeder - Field Crops Specialist

Placements24; Queenstown; Presencial; NZD 85.000 - 128.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Professional development

Research facilities

Annual leave

Research grants

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 presents an exciting opportunity for a Plant Breeder specializing in field crops to join a leading agricultural research institution in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. The role focuses on designing and managing breeding programs to develop high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties while applying molecular tools to accelerate trait development.

The successful candidate will lead field trials, collaborate with scientists, mentor junior staff, and contribute to publications and funding

Formación

• Master's degree or PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or related field.
• 5-7 years hands-on plant breeding experience with field crops.
• Experience designing field trials and managing breeding nurseries.
• Knowledge of genetics, quantitative genetics, and breeding methodologies.
• Familiarity with molecular breeding techniques and genomic analysis tools.

Responsabilidades

• Design, implement, and manage plant breeding programs for key field crops.
• Develop and select superior genotypes with high yield and disease resistance.
• Conduct field evaluations and nursery trials, analyzing data from crop parameters.
• Utilize conventional breeding and molecular markers for trait development.
• Manage germplasm collections and ensure effective utilization in programs.
• Collaborate with agronomists, pathologists, and other scientists on improvement strategies.
• Maintain pedigrees and trial result records, prep reports and presentations.
• Mentor junior breeders, technicians, and field staff.
• Stay current with advancements in plant genetics and breeding technologies.
• Ensure biosafety and regulatory compliance; contribute to research proposals.

Conocimientos

Genetics knowledge

Data analysis

Field trial design

Team leadership

Educación

Master's or PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or related field

Herramientas

R

SAS

Genomic analysis tools

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research institution, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Plant Breeder with a specialization in field crops to join their team in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**. This vital role focuses on developing new and improved varieties of essential field crops through advanced breeding techniques. The Plant Breeder will be responsible for designing and executing breeding programs, conducting field trials, selecting superior germplasm, and utilizing molecular tools to accelerate trait development. The goal is to enhance crop yield, quality, disease resistance, and adaptation to diverse environmental conditions, particularly those relevant to the **Eastern Cape** region. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to food security and the advancement of agricultural productivity in South Africa. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific background, practical breeding experience, and a passion for innovation in crop genetics. We are looking for a motivated individual to lead breeding efforts and make a tangible impact on the agricultural landscape from **Queenstown**.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage plant breeding programs for key field crops.
• Develop and select superior genotypes with desired traits such as high yield, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and improved nutritional quality.
• Conduct field evaluations and nursery trials, collecting and analyzing data on various crop parameters.
• Utilize conventional breeding methods and explore the application of molecular markers and genomic selection.
• Manage germplasm collections and ensure their effective utilization in breeding programs.
• Collaborate with agronomists, pathologists, and other scientists to ensure integrated crop improvement strategies.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all breeding activities, pedigrees, and trial results.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications, and presentations on breeding program progress and outcomes.
• Supervise and mentor junior breeders, technicians, and field staff.
• Stay current with advancements in plant genetics, breeding technologies, and crop science.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant biosafety and regulatory guidelines.
• Contribute to the development of research proposals and funding applications.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of hands‑on experience in plant breeding, with a focus on field crops.
• Demonstrated experience in designing and managing field trials and breeding nurseries.
• Strong knowledge of genetics, quantitative genetics, and breeding methodologies.
• Familiarity with molecular breeding techniques and genomic analysis tools is highly advantageous.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SAS) and data management.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical‑thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team environment.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to conduct fieldwork in various conditions near **Queenstown**.
• A passion for crop improvement and contributing to agricultural development.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending scientific conferences.
• Access to advanced research facilities and experimental plots.
• A supportive and collaborative research environment.
• Contribution to significant advancements in crop science.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Potential for research grants and project leadership.