At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative crop improvement projects and shape the future of agri-science.
- Company: Join Niab, the UK's leading crop science organisation with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible working, professional development, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for collaboration across the plant sciences sector.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in plant genomics and gene editing while driving commercial growth.
- Qualifications: PhD in plant science or related field, with leadership experience and strategic thinking.
The predicted salary is between 84000 - 110250 £ per year.
This is one of the most influential scientific leadership roles in UK agri-science. You'll have full accountability for Niab's Crop Improvement Service Group, covering pre-breeding, precision breeding and emerging biotechnology across agricultural and horticultural crops, at a time when the group's portfolio is growing and becoming more commercially ambitious.
You'll sit on Niab's Executive Team and on the Cropping Systems Senior Leadership Team, shaping not just your own group but Niab's wider direction. You'll set the strategy, grow the commercial portfolio, and ensure the science stays at the forefront of plant genomics and gene editing. You'll represent Niab nationally and internationally with funders including UKRI, BBSRC and Defra, and with plant breeders, seed companies and research partners across the sector.
Working closely with the Head of Operations and Head of Science, you'll turn ambition into delivery, balancing commercial growth with Niab's purpose as a not-for-profit.
About You
PhD-level qualified in plant science, genetics, genomics or a related discipline (or equivalent senior leadership experience), with a track record of growing income from research contracts, commercial services or licensing. You'll bring commercial acumen, strategic thinking, and the credibility to influence at board, funder and policy level. An MBA or equivalent is desirable, as is experience of board-level engagement and UK/EU funding mechanisms.
Location
The role is based at Niab Park Farm Campus, Villa Road, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9AT, 4 miles from Cambridge city centre. Free on-site parking and linked by cycle ways and regular buses to Cambridge city centre and railway station. Close to Junction 32 of A14, with easy access to M11, A10 and A11.
About Us
Niab is the UK’s leading crop science organisation, with research capabilities in plant genetics, agronomy, farming systems and data science, the largest national field trials capability, and strong research links with industry, Government and academia. With headquarters in Cambridge, and regional offices across the country, employing over 350 people across the UK, NIAB advances the role of plant genetic resources through research services and training. Niab’s position at the interface of academic research and commercial breeding offers opportunities for strong collaborations across the plant sciences sector.
Niab actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. As a Disability Confident Employer, we have a positive approach to employing people living with a disability. Benefits include 25 days’ holiday plus public holidays and 3 days off during the Christmas period, flexible/hybrid working across Cambridge and East Malling, professional development, generous sick pay, attractive pension scheme, income protection, life assurance, employee discount scheme, free on-site parking and great colleagues.
About the Application Process
Apply by clicking the Apply button above, please read the Job Description, which provides full details about the role, application process and what to expect.
Important Information
This is a UK-based role. You will be required to demonstrate your right to work in the UK as part of the recruitment process. Where the role meets the relevant criteria, we are able to consider Skilled Worker visa sponsorship in line with Home Office requirements. Any offer of sponsorship will be subject to the role meeting the skill and salary thresholds and to the individual meeting the Home Office eligibility criteria.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and do not discriminate on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under the Equality Act 2010.
Niab reserves the right to withdraw or close this vacancy at any time.
Director of Crop Improvement in Cambridge employer: NIABHR
Niab is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead in the forefront of agri-science at our Histon campus, just a stone's throw from Cambridge. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, we empower our employees to thrive while contributing to impactful research in crop improvement. Our competitive benefits package, including generous holiday allowances and a supportive work environment, makes Niab a rewarding place to advance your career in plant science.
