Job description:The R&D Lead - Agriculture, will drive both theoretical scientific research and practical agri-technology development. This role combines academic-level agricultural science with hands-on innovation - leading research publications, controlled experiments, prototype development, and farm-level deployments. The lead will mentor the agrotech team and build a strong R&D pipeline from concept to science to prototype to field validation.Educational Qualification:Required: PhD in Agriculture, Agronomy, Horticulture, Soil Science, Plant Science, Plant Physiology, or Agricultural Engineering.Preferred: Research background with published papers in precision farming, hydroponics, sustainable agriculture, controlled environment farming, or automation in agriculture.Skills:Scientific & Theoretical Research:Strong understanding of crop science, plant physiology, soil & nutrient dynamics, hydroponics/aquaponics systems, protected cultivation, and climate-controlled farming.Expertise in experimental design (DoE), statistical analysis, scientific documentation, and research publishing.Ability to convert scientific findings into practical insights, whitepapers, and patentable concepts.Practical Agri-Technology & EngineeringHands-on experience with sensor-based farming, micro-irrigation systems, fertigation units, automation devices, and IoT-based monitoring tools.Knowledge of hydroponic systems (DWC, NFT, substrate-based), polyhouse/greenhouse management, nutrient management, and farm automation workflows.Ability to collaborate with electronics, embedded systems, AI, and mechanical engineering teams to build real-world agri devices and prototypes.Leadership & ExecutionAbility to lead a multi-disciplinary R&D team (agriculture + electronics + IoT).Strong project management skills—defining research roadmaps, timelines, SOPs, field trials, and success metrics.Excellent mentoring, documentation, communication, and collaboration abilities.Capable of managing partnerships with universities, ICAR institutes, KVKs, labs, and farms.Responsibilities;1. Theoretical ResearchConduct literature surveys, identify high-impact agricultural research opportunities, and publish research papers, whitepapers, and patents.Lead controlled experiments in soil, nutrient, crop health, and precision farming techniques.Build scientific frameworks and internal knowledge systems.2. Practical & Product DevelopmentDesign and validate agri devices and automation systems, including:nutrient dosing systemsclimate control unitssmart irrigation/fertigationhydroponic and vertical farming systemsfarm monitoring devices (sensor nodes, IoT controllers)Collaborate with hardware and software teams to convert research ideas into working prototypes and deploy them in real farms.3. Team Leadership & ManagementMentor and guide junior agricultural researchers, interns, and engineers.Review experiments, oversee documentation, and ensure scientific rigor.Create SOPs, field-testing protocols, and validation frameworks.Build partnerships with agricultural institutions and oversee pilot programs.Minimum Experience:4 - 5 years of experience in agricultural research, agritech R&D, precision farming, hydroponics, or controlled environment agriculture.
