Lead Breeder- Field crops

We are hiring for Lead Breeder role with one of our reputed clients in Seed industry, Interested candidates can apply to this job post or share their CV at payal.khonde@icresset.com.

About the Role:

strategic planning, adoption of advanced technologies, people leadership, and cross-functional collaboration

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement strategic breeding initiatives across targeted field crops.
  
• Drive genetic improvement programs for both open-pollinated and hybrid varieties.
  
• Adopt advanced breeding technologies in collaboration with biotech teams to accelerate R&D.
  
• Enhance crop yields, resilience to stresses, and traits for nutrition, climate adaptability, and ease of cultivation.
  
• Lead, mentor, and motivate a team of breeders to deliver high-quality outputs.
  
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and best practices.
  
• Design, analyze, and interpret experimental data with precision.
  
• Foster collaborations with public and private institutions for research and innovation.
  
• Manage resources effectively and contribute to organizational R&D strategy.
  

Must-Haves:

• PhD in Agricultural/Plant Sciences (preferably Genetics & Plant Breeding).
  
• 20+ years of experience in plant breeding, with a proven track record in commercial breeding and varietal development in at least two of the following crops: paddy, wheat, bajra, mustard.
  
• Strong knowledge of breeding principles, advanced breeding tools, and their practical applications.
  
• Hands-on experience with genetic improvement programs in the seed industry.
  
• Experience as Principal Scientist, Head Breeder, or R&D Head in field crops for a large organization or setup.
  
• Strong understanding of regulatory compliance, experimental design, statistical analysis, and reporting.
  
• Proven leadership, people management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  
• Excellent communication, presentation, and reporting skills.
  
• Willingness to be based at Dawalwadi (with flexibility for Mumbai-based candidates).
  
• Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset.