Research & Development (R&D) Specialist

Job Summary:

The R&D Specialist will support research and innovation across the coffee value chain—from cultivation and processing to quality improvement and sustainability. This role focuses on developing new agricultural practices, improving post-harvest processing, enhancing coffee quality, and supporting smallholder farmers with scientific solutions. The ideal candidate will combine technical knowledge of coffee agronomy and processing with field research, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct applied research on coffee cultivation, disease resistance, soil health, irrigation, and crop productivity.
• Develop and test improved coffee varieties and agronomic practices for diverse agro-climatic zones.
• Study and improve post-harvest processes including fermentation, drying, roasting, and storage.
• Collaborate with field officers, farmer cooperatives, and extension services to transfer research to farms.
• Analyze sensory and chemical characteristics of coffee beans to support quality improvement.
• Work on sustainability initiatives such as organic cultivation, carbon footprint reduction, and water management.
• Maintain detailed research documentation and prepare technical papers, reports, and recommendations.
• Support coffee quality laboratories and contribute to national and international coffee grading standards.
• Participate in workshops, training programs, and farmer outreach efforts organized by the Coffee Board.
• Stay updated with global trends in coffee research, climate adaptation, and consumer preferences.

Qualifications:

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Agricultural Science, Horticulture, Soil Science, Plant Pathology, Food Technology, or Coffee Science.
• 2–5 years of experience in agricultural research, preferably related to plantation crops or coffee.
• Strong knowledge of experimental design, field trials, and statistical analysis.
• Experience with laboratory equipment for soil, plant, or bean analysis.
• Familiarity with coffee processing methods and quality evaluation protocols (e.g., cupping).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English (and local languages desirable).
• Willingness to travel to remote coffee-growing regions for fieldwork.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with GIS, remote sensing, or climate modeling in agriculture.
• Understanding of sustainability certifications (e.g., Rainforest Alliance, UTZ, Organic).
• Knowledge of pest/disease forecasting models or bio-inputs.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From ₹50,000.00 per month

Benefits:

• Food provided
• Health insurance
• Provident Fund

Work Location: In person