Nematologist Scientist

Location

Zwijnaarde

Working hours

Full-time

Contract Type

Permanent

Working area

R&D

Join the team

Within BASF Seed and Traits R&D, Trait Research we focus on the design, creation and testing of candidate leads as gene-based solutions for herbicide tolerance, pest and disease control in key crops including soybean, oilseed rape, wheat and cotton. We are currently seeking a talented, motivated, and inspiring Nematologist to join our Trait Research team at the R&D Innovation Center in Ghent, Belgium. In this role, you will develop and execute research strategies aligned with business goals to successfully commercialize innovative nematode resistant traits and germplasm.

Responsibilities

You propose innovative nematode trait concepts and develop and implement nematode control research strategies using state-of-the-art know-how and technologies including suitable third-party collaborations to ascertain scientific competitiveness of the nematode program.
You evaluate scientific progress of nematode control programs with the project leader and with support of team members (technicians and scientists in the lab and GH) and take decisions to ensure the achievement of scientific objectives and critical milestones with optimal use of available resources.
You design and oversee the execution of nematode control assays to support program goals. You articulate a clear, innovative and competitive testing scheme to meet these goals and to ensure the efficient delivery of high-quality nematode traits.
You proactively report on your scientific progress and new opportunities to all relevant stakeholders as requested.
You develop the innovative ability and competence of research teams, and you act as a mentor and give scientific guidance across the organization.
You support the program leader to ensure strategy competitiveness by working closely with Intellectual Property colleagues to build a proactive patenting (and, if needed, licensing-) strategy and ensure a competitor IP analysis in the program field.

Qualifications

You hold a PhD in Nematology with 12-15 years of relevant experience or equivalent.
You are internationally acknowledged as a consistent innovator and leading authority in the field of Plant Nematology and have a profound knowledge of GM trait development.
You provide innovative solutions for plant parasitic nematode issues and demonstrate knowledge and expertise from working directly with plant parasitic nematodes.
You are familiar with crop business strategies and the principles of value creation for growers. You understand the connection between the lab and the field.
You have a track record of providing 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 plant parasitic nematode control project objectives.
You possess 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 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 fluent in English.

Benefits

A permanent contract within an attractive working environment in a professional and motivated team.
Interesting and challenging learning and development opportunities to help you make the most of your talents and your job.
An attractive base salary in relation to your diploma and competencies, an annual bonus and extra-legal benefits.

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.