Key Skills

Job Description

Research & Breeding PhD Rijk Zwaan is at the forefront of applying advanced computational and molecular approaches in plant breeding. To strengthen our capabilities in improving complex traits, we are looking for a Systems Biology Scientist to join our team in Fijnaart. Your job at Rijk Zwaan: As a Systems Biology Scientist, you will develop and apply systems-level models to understand the molecular networks that underpin complex traits in crops. You will work at the interface of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and advanced computational modeling, translating large-scale data into actionable biological insight for research and breeding. You will collaborate closely with experts in computational biology, bioinformaticians, ICT, plant biology and external research partners. Keeping both short- and long-term research objectives in mind, you will explore, adapt and implement novel systems biology and AI-driven approaches to build and apply tools that support data-driven trait development. In this role, you will: Develop and apply gene regulatory and molecular network models for complex trait analysis in various crops. Contribute to developing machine interpretable network storage system. Integrate multi-omics data (e.g. genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics) to model multigene traits relevant for variety development Apply systems biology and AI-based approaches to identify key regulators and intervention points (protein and DNA level) Translate modeling results into hypotheses and insights for testing in breeding and research programs Contribute to the internal vision on data-driven studies to boost regulatory network analysis Join external collaborative projects on behalf of Rijk Zwaan and internalize the outcomes Where will you be working? Rijk Zwaan is an international family-owned company with a people-oriented culture. Rijk Zwaan is at the beginning of the food chain. We develop vegetable and fruit varieties and sell seeds to growers and other chain partners all over the world. We make an important contribution to the world food supply. This position is within Biotechnology department under Computational Biology team, an interdisciplinary and international team of researchers passionate about biocomplexity, genetics, data analysis and AI applications in breeding research. The team works closely with domain experts in trait biology, bioinformatics and genomics technology development, and actively participates in long-term strategic research collaborations. Your contribution: You are curious, analytical and motivated to work on complex biological questions. You enjoy interdisciplinary collaboration and can communicate complex concepts in a clear and structured way. You combine strong quantitative skills with biological insight and enjoy translating models into impact. In addition, we can find the following on your CV: PhD in Systems Biology, Computational Biology or Bioinformatics Proven experience in experimental setup and modeling gene regulatory or molecular networks in plants Strong background in multi-omics data integration and analysis Familiarity with AI or machine learning approaches in genomics is an advantage Experience working in interdisciplinary and/or collaborative research projects Strong programming and data analysis skills (e.g. Python, R or similar) What can you expect from us? The basics are, of course, well taken care of. We are happy to offer you: A permanent contract right away for a minimum of 30 hours per week A good salary based on job level and experience 25 vacation days, one vitality day, and the option to purchase additional days Training opportunities through the Rijk Zwaan Academy At Rijk Zwaan it’s not just about good employment conditions, but also about your growth, health and enjoyment at work. You’ll see this reflected in, among other things An introductory lunch with management and other new colleagues Fresh soup, fruit and/or salads “Rondjes Rijk Zwaan” introduction program – get to know our culture, departments and history Development discussions instead of performance reviews Rijk Zwaan Fit with activities such as running and bootcamp, plus discounts on your gym membership Activities to participate in, ranging from BBQ to photography workshops.

Core Responsibilities

Develop and apply systems-level gene regulatory and molecular network models, integrating multi-omics data and AI-based methods to analyze complex crop traits and identify key regulators. Translate modeling results into testable insights for breeding and research, contribute to data-driven network analysis tools and strategy, and collaborate with internal teams and external research partners.

Requirements

A PhD in Systems Biology, Computational Biology, or Bioinformatics is required, along with proven experience designing experiments and modeling plant gene regulatory or molecular networks. Candidates should have strong multi-omics integration, programming, and data analysis skills, with interdisciplinary research experience; familiarity with AI or machine learning in genomics is an advantage.

Benefits

• Permanent Contract
• Salary Based on Job Level and Experience
• 25 Vacation Days
• Vitality Day
• Option to Purchase Additional Vacation Days
• Training Opportunities
• Fresh Soup, Fruit, and Salads
• Development Discussions
• Fitness Activities
• Gym Membership Discounts
• Social Activities and Workshops