Plennegy Research : Senior Biotechnologist

Plennegy (Pty) Ltd.; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural biotechnology company in Gauteng is seeking a Junior Biotechnologist to enhance germplasm and manage breeding protocols. The role includes gathering and assessing germplasm, conducting evaluations, and ensuring compliance with laboratory practices. A Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology or related field is essential, along with significant experience in biotechnology. This position offers opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 3 years as a Junior Biotechnologist.
• 7 years as a Biotechnologist.

Responsibilities

• Gather and assess germplasm for crops.
• Plant, grow, and evaluate material under suitable conditions.
• Coordinate genotyping and pathology screening.
• Manage day-to-day operations of the controlled environment facility.

Skills

Expertise in molecular biology

Plant genetics knowledge

Laboratory practice

Bioinformatics software usage

Trait evaluation

Education

Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology / Plant Genetics / Plant Breeding

Job description

Starke Ayres is the foremost African specialist and global supplier of premium vegetable, flower and lawn seed varieties – both for commercial and home garden planting.

Purpose of Job

To enhance germplasm through pre-breeding and speed breeding in conjunction with breeders, pathology and biotechnology teams

Responsibilities

• Gather and assess germplasm for onion, tomato, squash and other crops as needed
• Request breeding sources from gene-banks and other breeding partners
• Plant, grow and evaluate material under suitable conditions (tunnel / field)
• Characterize material by coordinating genotyping and pathology screening
• Identify possible traits of interest for further investigation
• Pre-breeding and QTL mapping of identified traits
• Cross-pollinate identified material to suitable donors for population development
• Coordinate trait mapping using populations in conjunction with the breeder and / or pathology
• Marker improvement and validation studies using suitable populations
• Trait identification for marker development from published literature using bioinformatics software (eg Persephone)
• Liaise with external service providers for genotyping / sequencing projects
• Assist with back-crossing activities if required
• Investigate and develop onion speed breeding protocols
• Manage day-to-day operations and functioning of the controlled environment facility
• Develop through experimentation methods for onion speed breeding (daylength, temperature, light quality)
• Validate protocols for bulb development and subsequent flowering and seed development
• Advance breeding material through successive cycles of breeding in conjunction with breeders needs
• Assist with population development for marker development
• Interacts appropriately and respectfully with others
• Offers expert service / advice to colleagues
• Displays a positive attitude towards the company and its goals
• Develops constructive and co-operative working relationships with team members inside and outside the team
• Deals with conflict in a constructive manner
• Acts responsibly and professionally at all times, fostering goodwill and a positive image for the Company
• Performs other duties and special projects as assigned by supervisors
• Keep updated with new molecular protocols / techniques that could be applicable to PLENNEGY RESEARCH's Biotechnology Centre
• Suggest implementation of new genetic technologies and protocols to superiors
• Responsible for general housekeeping in PCR set-up laboratory
• Good laboratory practice to be maintained at all times
• General Health and Safety Rules to be adhered to at all times in accordance with the OHSA

Requirements

• Qualifications : Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology / Plant Genetics / Plant Breeding (Essential)
• Experience : 3 years as a Junior Biotechnologist
• Experience : 7 Years as a Biotechnologist