Disease Scientist

Location

Zwijnaarde

Working hours

Full-time

Contract Type

Permanent

Working area

R&D

Join the team

Within BASF Seeds and Traits R&D, Screening refers to the exploration of genetic diversity using functional bioassays. The Screening group is responsible for developing and performing functional bioassays for early selection of candidate leads, based on interactions between small molecules and plant target genes but also interactions between proteins, RNA and DNA. A diverse range of biological screening systems (insects, yeast and plant based) are being developed to solve a specific research question. The Screening group is embedded within Trait Research, which focuses on the design, creation and testing of candidate leads as gene-based solutions for crop improvement.

We are currently seeking a talented, motivated, and inspiring Scientist to join our Screening group at the R&D Innovation Center in Ghent, Belgium. In this role, you will design and implement innovative discovery approaches and methodologies targeting Disease Control genes.

Responsibilities

You contribute to the development of advanced screening concepts in plants for the rapid identification, validation, and optimization of lead candidate genes for disease resistance.
You design and implement innovative (cell-based) discovery approaches, ensuring optimal resource utilization and cost efficiency while maintaining competitive timelines.
You lead and coach a functional team of technicians and researchers in the lab, implementing efficient screening workflows.
You critically assess experimental outcomes and adjust research plans as necessary to ensure optimal results, delivering progress updates on critical milestones to all relevant stakeholders.
You represent the company at external seminars, publish scientific articles, contribute to IP filing, and build a strong internal and external network, while also supporting strategic research portfolio development in Trait Research.
You scout, propose, implement, and oversee emerging technologies for high-throughput screening workflows in our crops of interest.
You serve as a role model in ensuring compliance with company standards (Quality, Health, Safety, Environment, Biosafety, Stewardship, Regulatory, IP).

Qualifications

You hold a PhD in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related life sciences field (or possess equivalent experience) and have a minimum of 3 years of experience in molecular plant-microbe interactions.
You have extensive experience in plant disease resistance engineering, including the identification, cloning, and engineering of cell surface receptors and NLRs, and are eager to implement the latest trends and innovations in an industrial setting. Expertise in genome editing, CRISPR screens, cell-based functional assays, directed evolution, single-cell technologies, or plant cell sorting is highly regarded.
You provide scientific leadership for internal and external program work packages, effectively managing collaborations with partners, and excel in developing innovative research proposals that incorporate novel technology platforms to advance project objectives.
You possess strong leadership and team coaching skills, motivating and inspiring others, while fostering collaboration in diverse environments through a multi-cultural mindset.
You demonstrate proactivity, with well-developed communication and negotiation skills that enable effective interactions with stakeholders.
You build a culture of innovation by creating an environment that supports creativity and by coaching and developing people.
You are digitally savvy, familiar with information technology to support business objectives, and have experience in digitalizing research processes.
You are fluent in English.

Benefits

A permanent contract within an attractive working environment in a professional and motivated team.
A role with challenging assignments and responsibilities.
An attractive base salary in relation to your diploma and competencies, an annual bonus and extra-legal benefits.
A good work-life balance where regular working from home is possible.

Come join us in bringing the lab to the field

About BASF’s Agricultural Solutions division

Everything we do, we do for the love of farming. Farming is fundamental to provide enough healthy and affordable food for a rapidly growing population, while reducing environmental impacts. That’s why we are working with partners and experts to integrate sustainability criteria into all business decisions. We invest in a strong R&D pipeline, combining innovative thinking with practical action in the field. Our solutions are purpose-designed for different crop systems. Connecting seeds and traits, crop protection products, digital tools and sustainability approaches, to help deliver the best possible outcomes for farmers, growers and our other stakeholders along the value chain. With teams in the lab, field, office and in production, we do everything in our power to build a sustainable future for agriculture. In 2023, our division generated sales of €10.1 billion.

For more information, please visit www.agriculture.basf.com or our social media channels.

Application process

1. Application

You found the job you like on our website. Time to hit that ‘apply’-button and let us know who you are through the application form.

2. First encounter

We are intrigued by your application and call you immediately. At this point you can expect questions like: What motivates you? And what are your skills?

3. Interview

The call went great! So here you are, ready for your interview with HR and a hiring manager. We want to know more of your story and of course, you can ask about our story as well.

4. Contract

Welcome to our team. When can you start? So we can everything ready for your first day. You know, computer, paperwork, cake, balloons …

5. Onboarding

We welcome you with open arms and get you up and running. Including our eye-opening bootscamp, from the lab to the field.