We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Plant Trait Discovery Group Lead (all gender) to join our Research & Development department. This full-time position is located at the KWS SAAT SE & Co. KGaA headquarter in Einbeck, Germany. The successful candidate will lead a team focused on identifying and characterizing genes for genome editing that contribute to key trait product launches in KWS crops. This role requires a highly skilled individual capable of leading people, pushing the boundaries, uncovering new knowledge, and safeguarding our understanding of the world around us.

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead and mentor an international & multidisciplinary research team of scientists and research associates at two locations (USA and Germany) to deliver high quality candidate genes for genome editing targets to enable trait product launches.
• Foster a collaborative, innovative, and continuous learning team environment. Maintain an open and inspiring working atmosphere, support the professional and personal development of team members.
• Develop and implement comprehensive and innovative strategies for gene discovery and functional characterization in collaboration with trait program managers, breeding, breeding technology and analytics. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partners and integrate findings by leveraging all the different data and information to identify lead gene candidates and validate their function in greenhouses and fields.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory and quality management standards.
• Manage resources including budget and personnel to deliver on priorities and timelines.
• Push for invention disclosures and patent applications.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or other higher qualifications in Biology, Genetics, Bioinformatics, or related sciences plus multi-years’ experience in industry.
• Several years of experience in plant gene discovery or related research.
• Knowledge in plant biology, genome editing, and plant phenotyping
• Strong business orientation; good understanding of legal, IP, and regulatory frameworks.
• Proven leadership, team management, and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in proficient English language. German language skills would be a plus. 
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Connection to a usable international network of leading scientists.
• Willingness to travel internationally up to 15%.

Benefits

• As a family-run company we are guided by the values of closeness, reliability, foresight and independence - this culture is lived in practice creating thus an open and friendly working atmosphere.​

• True to our motto Make yourself grow, we support employees’ professional and personal development.​

• We offer excellent work equipment, a fully-fledged, subsidized canteen, direct train connection and sufficient free parking spaces at the KWS location Einbeck. 

We look forward to receiving your application online. Last day for your application is 21st of May 2025.