Agri-tech Innovation Lead - Biotechnology Focus

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Equity options

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, is seeking an innovative Agri-tech Innovation Lead with a PhD in Biotechnology. You will spearhead R&D for novel biotechnological solutions to boost crop resilience, yield, and nutrition, leading a multidisciplinary team from concept to commercialization.

This role blends scientific leadership with strategic execution in a fast-growing startup, requiring strong communication, project management, and regulatory savvy to translate discoveries into

Qualifications

• PhD in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Plant Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in agricultural biotechnology R&D.
• Proven leadership experience managing R&D teams and projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage R&D projects in agricultural biotechnology, including genetic modification, gene editing, and biopesticides.
• Identify and evaluate emerging biotechnologies with potential applications in agriculture.
• Develop and optimize innovative processes for crop improvement and sustainable farming.
• Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring high standards of scientific rigor and safety.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across product development, operations, and marketing.
• Manage intellectual property and patent applications related to new innovations.
• Build and maintain relationships with academic institutions, research organizations, and industry partners.
• Prepare research proposals, grant applications, and technical reports.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers and technical staff.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Strategic thinking

Communication

Education

PhD in Biotechnology or related field

Tools

CRISPR-Cas9

Marker-assisted selection

Synthetic biology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge Agri-tech startup focused on sustainable food production, is seeking an innovative Agri-tech Innovation Lead with a strong background in biotechnology. This exciting role, based in East London, Eastern Cape , will spearhead the research, development, and implementation of novel biotechnological solutions to enhance crop resilience, yield, and nutritional value. You will lead a team of scientists and engineers, driving projects from concept to commercialization. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with deep scientific expertise, a passion for innovation, and a proven ability to manage R&D projects effectively. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of agriculture through groundbreaking scientific advancements in a collaborative and dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage research and development projects in agricultural biotechnology, including genetic modification, gene editing, and biopesticides.
• Identify and evaluate emerging biotechnologies with potential applications in agriculture.
• Develop and optimize innovative processes for crop improvement and sustainable farming practices.
• Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring high standards of scientific rigor and safety.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, operations, and marketing.
• Manage intellectual property and patent applications related to new innovations.
• Build and maintain relationships with academic institutions, research organizations, and industry partners.
• Prepare research proposals, grant applications, and technical reports.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers and technical staff.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements, regulatory landscapes, and market trends in agricultural biotechnology.

Requirements

• A PhD in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Plant Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in agricultural biotechnology research and development, with a focus on crop improvement.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing R&D teams and projects from inception to completion.
• Extensive knowledge of cutting-edge biotechnologies such as CRISPR-Cas9, marker-assisted selection, and synthetic biology.
• Proven experience in translating scientific discoveries into commercially viable products or solutions.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with navigating regulatory pathways for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or novel agricultural products is highly advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced startup environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Familiarity with agricultural systems in the Eastern Cape is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, equity options, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, life cover, and a retirement fund.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility, allowing for focused research and development at our East London facility, complemented by remote work capabilities.
• Employees benefit from opportunities for continuous professional development, participation in leading industry conferences, and the chance to work on projects that have a significant positive impact on global food security and environmental sustainability.
• Join a team committed to innovation and making a difference in agriculture.