Assistant Breeder

Position Overview:

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Assistant Breeder to join our Research & Development team. The successful candidate will support the development of new plant varieties and enhancement of existing germplasm through systematic breeding programs. This role involves field and lab-based activities, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration to meet breeding objectives efficiently and effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Breeding Program Execution:

• Develop and implement effective breeding strategies to enhance desirable plant traits.
• Plan and execute controlled pollinations and hybridization programs.

2. Field Trial & Sowing Management:

• Organize sowing schedules and field layout designs for breeding trials.
• Supervise field activities including planting, maintenance, and data collection.

3. Generation Advancement & Selection:

• Manage generation advancement of breeding materials to progress superior lines.
• Conduct phenotypic selection for key traits across breeding stages.

4. DUS Characterization:

• Conduct Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) testing for all products and their parental lines.
• Ensure proper documentation and compliance with regulatory standards.

5. Data Management & Record Keeping:

• Maintain detailed and accurate breeder records including field books and crossing logs.
• Ensure timely and systematic data entry and analysis.

6. Crossing Program Implementation:

• Execute crossing programs to generate sufficient hybrid seeds for evaluations and trials.

7. Team Collaboration & Reporting:

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including pathology, agronomy, and product development.
• Present research findings, breeding progress, and recommendations to internal stakeholders.

Desired Skills & Attributes:

• Strong knowledge of classical and molecular breeding techniques.
• Hands-on experience with field trial management and data analysis.
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to work independently and in team settings.
• Effective communication and presentation skills.

Employment Type: Full-time
Function: Research & Development (R&D)

• Master of Science - Genetics & Plant Breeding
• Doctor of Philosophy - Genetics and Plant Breeding