For KWS Research Center in St.Louis we are seeking a visionary and technically accomplished Advanced Scientist for Trait Variation with solid scientific background and in-depth knowledge in genome editing to lead genome editing technology development and implementation for trait discovery and crop improvement. This full-time and permanent role will be instrumental in shaping the future of our genome editing platform, driving innovation, and mentoring cross-functional teams to deliver cutting-edge technologies aligned with long-term trait development goals.  

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Collaborate with senior leadership to align genome editing initiatives with organizational priorities
• Develop and refine the genome editing strategy to support pipeline acceleration and trait innovation
• Identify emerging technologies and trends in genome editing to future-proof genome editing capabilities and translate this information into novel applications with value for KWS in line with the R&D strategic initiatives
• Collaborate with project leads, trait discovery group, and other scientists to identify technical needs and actively seek and implement solutions to support flexible and competitive product or technology development
• Accountable for identification, development, and implementation of state-of-the-art technical approaches and design and execute genome editing experiments to solve defined problems
• Goal-oriented execution of assigned technological and scientific tasks in research, technology development, and implementation projects under guidance of the project lead by observing targets, timelines and resource use
• Evaluate external partnerships, academic collaborations, and IP opportunities
• Support generation of IP in close interaction with supervisor
• Participate in professional conferences and maintain a scientific network with external experts in relevant areas
• Work effectively and efficiently as part of a collaborative global research team
• Work in accordance with best practices for data analyses and experimental method development, contribute to optimizing work processes and documentation; identify technical problems and propose solutions; adapt approaches to match shifting demands
• Ensure quality assurance and compliance with all company policies and state and federal guidelines
• Inform in-house stakeholders about results and technology trends and present them findings and strategic recommendations

SKILLS AND COMPETENCES:

• PhD in Plant Sciences, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cell Biology, or related discipline
• Minimum 3 years of experience in genome editing, preferably in agricultural or biotech industry
• Proven track record of developing and applying novel genome editing technologies
• Experience in plant tissue culture preferred
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate scientific insights into business impact
• Curiosity and strong interest to learn about new developments
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team for collaborative success
• Entrepreneurial mindset, driving change, and agility to pursue changing scientific or technological tasks within their area of expertise
• Demonstrated ability to directly contribute solutions and innovation to overcome obstacles
• Good communication skills to internal team members, external partners, and technology providers
• Ability to communicate and write clearly, concisely and accurately in English            

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• This position is expected to lead genome editing technology development and implementation
• Provide technical expertise as a go-to person in genome editing area
• Support colleagues in planning, conducting, and implementing pilot stage projects
• Substantial working time for hands-on work in the lab
• Observance of regulations for occupational safety, compliance, know-how protection and internal QM
• Travel expected up to 10% of time, including international travel

OUR OFFER: 

• A salary between $91.311. This role is also eligible for an annual bonus. This reflects a reasonable estimate of the targeted base salary for this role. Based on factors such as geographic location and candidate qualifications, actual base pay is determined when an employment offer is made
• Health, dental, vision benefits
• Pension plan and 401(k) with employer match
• Flexible paid-time-off (PTO)
• Professional training and development opportunities

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

Scientific laboratory with exposure to experimental processes involving plants and chemicals. Flexible hours in response to the needs of the business. May spend time in greenhouses.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle or feel, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and move objects up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

JOIN US!
If you are ready to lead scientific innovation and make a meaningful impact in agriculture, we invite you to apply with your CV today.

We look forward to hearing from you.