Project Leader Applied Genetics and Genomics Job in Flanders, Belgium

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Project Leader Applied Genetics and Genomics Job Description

Company: Seed company
Department: Biotechnology / Plant Transformation
Reporting to/hierarchy: Head Biotechnology
 
Our client is a leading seed company specialized in the breeding, production and marketing of hybrid seed varieties of a major field crop worldwide. Through responsive research, teamwork and partnerships, they offer reliable seed solutions for the industry and growers, for that field crop worldwide. Their passion for innovation, based on many years of experience and expertise, and the research programmes in which they invest considerably reflect their commitment to develop customized crop solutions delivering higher yields and quality.
 
 
Function details:
As an expert in the use of molecular tools derived from genomics and related disciplines applied to plant genetics, the Project Leader will lead the ”Applied Genetics and Genomics Cluster”, one of the units within the biotechnology department. (S)He will manage the projects dedicated to the development and the application of molecular tools and genomic analyses to serve the objectives of the breeding; therefore (s)he will work in close interaction with breeding experts and other expert teams/clusters in the company. In agreement with the breeding strategy set by the breeding team, (s)he will be responsible for ensuring the marker technology in use delivers the expected data to the breeders and (s)he will continue building the R&D portfolio in the area of applied genomics ensuring identification and implementation of appropriate science and technology to maintain our client’s top position in the sector.
 
Expectations for this role include:

• Lead and coordinate the marker-assisted breeding (MAB) and genomics activities and projects to deliver optimal use of resources and output to meet breeder requirements.
• Responsibility for the development of existing and novel molecular-based methodologies.
• Coordinate and influence other experts contributing to the various steps of the projects towards common goals and objectives.
• Ensure that technologies and approaches taken to achieve objectives are the current state-of-the- art.
• Establish and maintain contacts with technology suppliers and the academic research environment to collect information on novel technologies and lead thinking to assess and, where appropriate, implement new approaches in the area of markers and genomics.
• Maintain high standards in the molecular analyses within the department, stimulate creativity and provide advice and guidance where appropriate. Support and encourage the development of appropriate expertise within other teams.
• As necessitated by the projects, with assistance of the biotech manager, IP attorney, company lawyer and other necessary support, set up collaboration framework in the area of markers and genomics; recommend terms of collaboration and supervise the negotiation of a favorable position for the company.
• Actively develop and maintain collaborative relationships with individuals and groups in academia/institutes/other companies worldwide to strengthen the company’s competitive position in the area of genomics.
• Manage the resources and budget of the cluster, motivate staff and ensure optimal use of facilities and equipment.

• Full-time.
• Permanent employment.
• Location: Flanders, Belgium.
• Starting date: ASAP. 

• Attractive financial conditions and extra-legal benefits.
• Help for visa and work permit.

• Room for own initiatives on further education and training.
• A work environment that supports your development.

• Stable career possibilities. 

Project Leader Applied Genetics and Genomics Job Requirements

Education and qualifications:

• PhD (or master equivalent by experience) with minimum 6 years of practical scientific experience in crop plant genetics, genomics or a related field of plant biotechnology. Experience in a similar position in seed/agrochemical industry is definitely a plus.
• Deep interest for plant genetics, molecular technologies and their application to practical challenges in field crops.
• Capacity to drive the evolution and the application of the technology in the optimal direction to serve the company’s objectives in germplasm development.
• Capacity to think strategically to contribute choosing the right approaches with a practical sense to set projects in motion respecting budgets and deadlines.
• Excellent communication and reporting skills, to interact with breeders, experts, colleagues and collaborators.
• Capacity to lead, organize and motivate a team.
• Good negotiation skills.
• Capacity to analyze a large amount of scientific and business information.

• Highly quality/result oriented, persuasive and accurate people manager.
• Proactive, broad and strategic thinker.
• Helicopter view.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, communication, reporting and collaborative skills.
• Like to share knowledge.
• Open minded and flexible team worker.
• Driven by enthusiasm, commitment and dedication.
• Sociable, ethical and trustworthy.

• Fluent in English, both oral and written.
• Knowledge of Dutch is highly preferred.

• Limited travel requirements.

Project Leader Applied Genetics and Genomics Application Information

Interested? 
You match the requested criteria for min. 90%? Then send your application including publications and references by the apply button mentioning reference BE-R16BL.
 
Questions? Contact us, we are eager to help you! Phone: +32 (0) 2 400 75 11

Project Leader Applied Genetics and Genomics Summary

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