Intrexon’s Agricultural Biotechnology Division (ABD) is focused on engineering biology to develop products and solutions enabling sustainable food production for a growing population. With our Botticelli™ plant propagation, PrimaVera™ precision genetics, and Florian™ technology for “on-demand” traits we seek to improve the quality of food and feed while preserving our valuable natural ecosystems. We are seeking a Breeding & Agronomy Lead that will oversee the R&D for development of novel hybrid crops and product development trials with novel traits. Specifically, the candidate will be responsible for research, development, and selection of inbred lines for hybrid crop development as well as provide oversight for ongoing product development trials with partners. In addition, the candidate will provide leadership for effective and efficient internal pipeline advancement for novel traits and hybrids and coordination with internal operations and executing trials with partners. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Join the ABD leadership team to develop and implement breeding strategies to advance new products by translating market needs and partner requirements.
• Design and implement long and short-term breeding and selection strategies to develop novel hybrids and traits. 
• Work closely with the Genomic Resources and Trait Development teams to facilitate the use of molecular markers, cell biology and phenotyping to breed for novel traits. 
• Design, organize and conduct trial programs in target market zones. Work closely with partners to introduce and manage commercial varieties.
• Identify appropriate varieties and make recommendations for advancement and commercialization. 
• Maintain expert knowledge of germplasm to understand usefulness of lines and hybrids across geographies.
• Develop, coordinate and create the crop PVP/IP strategy and activities that promote and protect Company’s intellectual property.
• Manage budget and resources.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Crop Science; minor in Plant Pathology and / or genomics desirable.
• Ph.D. degree a plus.
• Minimum five years of plant breeding and selection experience after graduation.
• Strong background in plant breeding, genetics, field plot technique and statistical analysis, genomics, and molecular marker applications in plant breeding.
• Proven track record in selection, development and release of commercial hybrids. 
• Experience with dioecious crops is a plus.
• Experience with data management and statistical analysis software.
• Ability to obtain pesticide applicator license; already licensed a plus.
• Knowledge and experience in organic farming, including rotation of crops and cover crops is a plus.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally.

DESIRED KEY COMPETENCIES:

• Proven track record of building and leading a team of Research Personnel to support breeding and trialing.
• Experience in budget and personnel management, including recruitment and development of staff.
• Ability to work in a team-based environment with multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Language skills: Fluent English required, Spanish a plus.
• Experience in a multidisciplinary work environment; ability to deal with various and diverse cultures and work habits.

APPLICATION

Click HERE to learn more and to apply online.

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