Senior Plant Geneticist - Crop Improvement

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Paid leave

Relocation assistance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Plant Geneticist to lead genetic research for crop improvement at our Stellenbosch campus. You will drive programs in genetic analysis, MAS, and genome editing, guiding a multidisciplinary team of scientists.

The role requires a Ph.D. in Plant Genetics/Plant Breeding and at least six years in plant genetics and breeding, with a strong publication record and project leadership experience. On-site position with relocation support.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plant Genetics, Plant Breeding, Agronomy, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Design genetic research programs to introgress desirable traits into crops.
• Perform advanced genetic analyses including QTL mapping and association studies.
• Develop molecular markers for MAS in breeding programs.
• Oversee phenotyping trials and collect genetic data.
• Collaborate with breeders to apply genetic findings in breeding strategies.
• Stay updated on plant genomics, gene editing (CRISPR), and bioinformatics.

Skills

Genetics

Plant Breeding

MAS (Marker-Assisted Selection)

QTL Mapping

CRISPR/Bioengineering

Data Analysis

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Genetics/Plant Breeding

Tools

Bioinformatics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized agricultural research institute, is seeking a dedicated Senior Plant Geneticist to lead critical research initiatives focused on crop improvement in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role is essential for developing advanced breeding strategies and leveraging genetic technologies to enhance crop yield, resilience, and nutritional value. You will oversee projects involving genetic analysis, marker-assisted selection, and potentially genome editing techniques. The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. in Plant Genetics, Agronomy, or a related field, coupled with extensive experience in plant breeding programs and molecular genetics. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, agronomists, and breeders, driving innovation in sustainable agriculture. The position is based at our advanced research campus in Stellenbosch , a hub for agricultural science innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement genetic research programs to identify and introgress desirable traits into crop varieties.
• Conduct advanced genetic analyses, including quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and association studies.
• Develop and utilize molecular markers for marker-assisted selection (MAS) in breeding programs.
• Oversee phenotyping trials and collect genetic data for analysis.
• Collaborate with breeders to integrate genetic findings into practical breeding strategies.
• Stay current with advancements in plant genomics, gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR), and bioinformatics relevant to crop improvement.
• Manage research projects, including budgets, timelines, and personnel.
• Prepare scientific publications, reports, and grant proposals.
• Mentor junior scientists and technical staff in genetics and breeding methodologies.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Plant Genetics, Plant Breeding, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of research experience in plant genetics and breeding, with a focus on crop improvement.
• Proven experience in applying molecular genetics techniques, including marker-assisted selection.
• Strong understanding of statistical genetics and quantitative genetics principles.
• Experience with bioinformatics tools for genomic data analysis is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to manage research projects and lead scientific teams.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a track record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Strong collaborative spirit and ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Experience with field trials and data collection in agricultural settings.
• Commitment to working on-site at our research facilities in Stellenbosch.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid leave.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attendance at international conferences and workshops.
• Access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities and field research stations.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment with a strong emphasis on scientific innovation.
• Potential for career advancement within a leading agricultural research organization.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for qualified candidates moving to the Stellenbosch region.
• Join our client and contribute to the future of global food security through advanced plant genetics.