Key Skills

Job Description

What if your science could shape the crops that feed the world tomorrow? At KeyGene, that is our daily work. We are the go-to research company for breakthrough technology in crop improvement. We are looking for a scientific leader who turns deep insight into plant cell and developmental biology into breakthroughs that reach the field. Your role As Head of Research Plant Cell Engineering, you lead one of KeyGene's core R&D units. It has three teams: Genome Engineering, Cell, Tissue & Regeneration, and Reproduction Technologies. Each is headed by an experienced Program Scientist. You report to the CEO and sit on the leadership team. You set the multiyear research agenda and steer how people, budget and resources are used. You build on a strong base of KeyGene’s R&D: gene editing innovations targeted regeneration protocols for crops that are hard to transform and regenerate proprietary 2S1® graft hybrid technologies breakthroughs in apomixis, after more than 15 years of research You connect your unit with KeyGene's expertise in DNA & RNA, data science and trait technology. With our IP & legal team, you shape the patent strategy. Through your network and our KeyNovation ecosystem, you build the alliances that keep KeyGene ahead. Who you are You are a respected scientist with an internationally recognised track record in plant cell or developmental biology. Leading people energises you as much as leading research does. You inspire and coach others, you know when to persuade, and you are at ease with shareholders and partners. You spot the moment science and technologies become intellectual property and unlock real-world applications. You bring: A PhD in plant sciences focused on developmental or cell biology, with profound knowledge of molecular biology; More than ten years in innovative R&D, business and management, with a world-renowned track record in R&D, innovation and IP; Thorough knowledge of modern plant breeding, gene editing and the related IP landscape, plus an interest in EU regulation of new genomic techniques (NGTs); Proven experience managing strategic R&D and leading teams. About KeyGene Dutch vegetable seed companies founded KeyGene in 1989. It is now an international innovation hub with around 110 professionals in Wageningen and Rockville (USA). Our shareholders, Takii Seeds, Limagrain Vegetable Seeds, Rijk Zwaan and Enza Zaden, rely on us as their innovation partner in molecular breeding. You join a diverse team of top experts in the heart of the world's leading agri-food region. More information about KeyGene can be found at www.keygene.com and in the detailed role profile that will be shared with candidates invited for an introductory meeting. Interested? This procedure is coordinated by Volta Consultants. For questions, please contact us at +31 (0)85 76 04 820. If you are interested, you are invited to apply online via the application form or contact us at [email protected]. Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.

Core Responsibilities

Lead KeyGene’s Plant Cell Engineering R&D unit, including its Genome Engineering, Cell, Tissue & Regeneration, and Reproduction Technologies teams; set the multiyear research agenda and allocate people, budgets, and resources. Connect the unit with other areas of KeyGene, shape patent strategy with the IP and legal team, and build external alliances to advance research and applications.

Requirements

Requires a PhD in plant sciences focused on developmental or cell biology, profound molecular biology knowledge, and more than ten years of experience in innovative R&D, business, and management. Candidates should have an internationally recognized record in R&D, innovation, and IP, thorough knowledge of modern plant breeding, gene editing, and related IP, and proven experience leading teams and strategic R&D.