Ready to take cutting-edge plant science beyond the laboratory and into the field? I am recruiting a Crop Science Lead for an established international vegetable seed business with an exciting ambition: to use advanced crop science and breeding technologies to accelerate the development of the next generation of commercial vegetable varieties. Reporting directly to the Director of R&D, you will lead a small laboratory research team and play a central role in shaping the company's future scientific capability. One of your most important challenges will be to develop and expand gene-editing capabilities across key vegetable crops, while ensuring laboratory innovation translates into meaningful outcomes for breeders, growers and ultimately the commercial market. If you want your science to have a visible, practical impact on real-world agriculture, this is an opportunity worth exploring. The Opportunity This is not a role where you will simply inherit a programme and keep it running. You will have the opportunity to help shape how advanced crop science is used within the business, introducing new methodologies, solving complex scientific challenges and connecting laboratory research directly with established breeding programmes. Working closely with plant breeders, agronomists, seed production, seed quality, product development and commercial colleagues, you will lead research targeting traits including: Disease resistance Climate resilience Yield improvement Flavour Nutritional qualityA particularly exciting part of your remit will be the development of gene-editing protocols and workflows across key crop species including celery, parsnip and kale. Alongside your internal team, you will also work with universities, research organisations and industry partners, identifying opportunities to build collaborations and secure external research funding. What Will You Be Doing? You will act as the senior scientific lead within the laboratory, taking responsibility for the direction and delivery of crop science research programmes. You will: Design, develop and oversee innovative plant science research programmes. Establish and refine gene-editing protocols, workflows and experimental platforms across key vegetable crops. Troubleshoot complex experimental and technical challenges. Ensure high standards of experimental design, controls, data integrity and scientific documentation.Importantly, this remains a scientifically engaged position. While you will provide leadership and direction, you should also be comfortable getting close to the research and providing hands-on technical input when required. You will also lead a small team of laboratory-based researchers. You don't necessarily need to have managed a large department before. I am equally interested in scientists who have supervised researchers or mentored technical colleagues and are ready to take the next step into broader leadership. There will also be opportunities to represent the business at relevant scientific conferences, technical forums and industry events in the UK and internationally. Who Are We Looking For? We are looking for someone with substantial scientific credibility, but equally importantly, someone who enjoys solving problems, collaborating with others and seeing research translated into practical outcomes. You will ideally have: A PhD or equivalent high-level qualification in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Plant Pathology, Crop Science or a related discipline. Experience within plant science, plant breeding or a closely related research environment. Strong knowledge of gene editing, molecular markers and/or advanced crop breeding technologies. The ability to manage multiple research projects, priorities and deadlines. Experience supervising, developing or providing scientific leadership to researchers or technical colleagues. The communication skills to work effectively across scientific, breeding, operational and commercial teams. A genuine interest in applying science to commercially relevant crop improvement.Experience specifically within vegetable crops would be advantageous, but relevant expertise from the wider plant science and crop research community is very much of interest. You do not need to tick every box. If your background gives you strong expertise in plant science and advanced breeding technologies, alongside the curiosity and leadership capability to develop new scientific approaches, I would be very interested in hearing from you. Location & Working Arrangements The role is based in Cobham, Surrey and is laboratory-based. There will also be periodic travel within the UK and internationally to support research collaborations and the wider R&D programme. While the role will require a regular on-site presence, there is potential for some flexibility around hybrid working. This would be subject to discussion but the business are open to considering a working pattern that provides some opportunity to work remotely where appropriate. Interested? If you want to play a leading role in bringing advanced breeding technologies into commercial crop development, I would be very keen to speak with you. For an informal chat, please call Emily on (phone number removed) or email (url removed). Don't worry if your CV isn't up to date, just send what you have already, and we can sort the rest later
Crop Science Lead employer: MorePeople
Join a leading UK food manufacturing business in Quarrington, where you will thrive in a dynamic work environment that values innovation and teamwork. With a structured shift pattern and a strong focus on employee development, this role offers excellent opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth, making it an ideal place for skilled Electrical Engineers looking to make a meaningful impact in the FMCG sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Crop Science Lead
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like MorePeople often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what MorePeople does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at MorePeople
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with MorePeople will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at MorePeople.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with MorePeople.
