Plennegy Research : Senior Biotechnologist

Starke Ayres (Pty) Ltd.; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural biotechnology company is seeking a Biotechnologist to enhance germplasm through pre-breeding and manage breeding protocols. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology or related fields and a minimum of 7 years of experience in biotechnology. This is a permanent position based in Kempton Park, offering a market-related salary.

Qualifications

• Must have a Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Plant Genetics, or Plant Breeding.
• At least 3 years of experience as a Junior Biotechnologist.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in biotechnology.

Responsibilities

• Gather and assess germplasm for various crops.
• Request breeding sources from gene-banks.
• Plan and evaluate material under suitable conditions.
• Characterize material through genotyping.
• Manage operations of controlled environment facility.

Skills

Molecular Biology

Plant Genetics

Plant Breeding

Genotyping

Pathology Screening

Education

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

Tools

Bioinformatics Software (e.g., Persephone)

Job description

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 (e.g., 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.
• Interact appropriately and respectfully with others.
• Offer expert service / advice to colleagues.
• Display a positive attitude towards the company and its goals.
• Develop constructive and co‑operative working relationships with team members inside and outside the team.
• Deal with conflict in a constructive manner.
• Act responsibly and professionally at all times, fostering goodwill and a positive image for the Company.
• Perform 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 the PCR set‑up laboratory.
• Maintain good laboratory practice at all times.
• Adhere to General Health and Safety rules 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.

Job Type

Permanent, Skilled, Salary: Market Related, EE Position, Location: Kempton Park.