Senior Crop Protection Scientist

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Global collaboration

Professional development

Competitive compensation

Job summary

Placements24 in partnership with a leading agricultural R&D organization is seeking a Senior Crop Protection Scientist. This fully remote role allows you to leverage your extensive experience in IPM, plant pathology, entomology, and weed science to develop sustainable crop protection strategies and advance global food security.

You will design and manage research projects, analyze complex data with statistical software, author reports and publications, and mentor junior scientists while

Qualifications

• PhD in a closely related field required.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive research experience in crop protection.
• Proven IPM expertise and practical application.
• Strong data analysis and statistical software experience.
• Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work remotely with international collaborators.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of research projects focused on identifying and evaluating novel crop protection strategies.
• Investigate the biology, ecology, and epidemiology of key crop pests, diseases, and weeds.
• Develop and validate integrated pest management (IPM) programs, emphasizing biological and cultural control methods alongside chemical solutions.
• Conduct field trials and laboratory experiments to assess the efficacy and safety of new crop protection products and techniques.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, utilizing advanced statistical methods.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including breeders, agronomists, and regulatory experts, to advance crop protection solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements, regulatory changes, and market trends in crop protection.
• Author scientific publications, reports, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior scientists and research staff.
• Contribute to the development of sustainable agricultural practices that minimize environmental impact.

Skills

IPM principles

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Oral communication

Collaboration

Education

PhD in Plant Pathology/Entomology/Weed Science/Agronomy

Tools

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading agricultural research and development organization committed to advancing sustainable crop protection strategies worldwide. We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Crop Protection Scientist to join our dynamic team. This is a fully remote position, enabling you to leverage your expertise from anywhere. You will play a pivotal role in researching, developing, and advocating for innovative and environmentally sound solutions to manage agricultural pests, diseases, and weeds. Your work will involve designing and executing research projects, analyzing complex data, and collaborating with a global network of scientists and industry partners. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of integrated pest management (IPM), plant pathology, entomology, and weed science, coupled with a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture. Your contributions will be crucial in ensuring global food security and promoting ecological balance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of research projects focused on identifying and evaluating novel crop protection strategies.
• Investigate the biology, ecology, and epidemiology of key crop pests, diseases, and weeds.
• Develop and validate integrated pest management (IPM) programs, emphasizing biological and cultural control methods alongside chemical solutions.
• Conduct field trials and laboratory experiments to assess the efficacy and safety of new crop protection products and techniques.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, utilizing advanced statistical methods.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including breeders, agronomists, and regulatory experts, to advance crop protection solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements, regulatory changes, and market trends in crop protection.
• Author scientific publications, reports, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior scientists and research staff.
• Contribute to the development of sustainable agricultural practices that minimize environmental impact.

Requirements

• A PhD in Plant Pathology, Entomology, Weed Science, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive research experience in crop protection.
• Demonstrated expertise in IPM principles and their practical application.
• Proven track record of successfully designing and managing research projects.
• Strong data analysis skills and experience with statistical software.
• Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills.
• Experience in collaborating with diverse teams and stakeholders, including international partners.
• A strong understanding of regulatory requirements for agricultural inputs.
• Ability to work independently and effectively in a remote, research-focused environment.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Fully remote work flexibility, allowing for work-life balance.
• Opportunity to contribute to significant advancements in sustainable agriculture.
• Access to cutting-edge research infrastructure and resources.
• Support for professional development, including conference attendance.
• Work with a globally recognized team of experts.
• Make a tangible impact on global food security and environmental health.