Jr. Research Scientist Plant Tissue Culture

Within our fast-moving Seed Production Innovation environment, we are looking for a Cell Biology Junior Scientist / Plant Tissue Culture Specialist. The Jr. Research Scientist Plant Tissue Culture role contributes to the development of innovative cell biology and tissue culture technologies that provide cutting-edge tools for vegetable seed production across diverse plant species. The position combines hands-on experimental work, support to senior scientists, individual project ownership, lab and process improvement responsibilities, and participation in the transfer of new protocols and technologies into the appropriate operational platforms.

• Location: Netherlands : Netherlands : Bergschenhoek
• Division: Crop Science

The primary responsibility of this position is to contribute to the development, optimization and implementation of innovative cell biology and tissue culture solutions that support vegetable seed production. The role is expected to combine scientific curiosity with a practical, implementation-focused mindset, using state-of-the-art techniques, accurate data analysis and continuous improvement approaches to create operational value. The role will support ongoing projects led by senior scientists while also taking ownership of assigned research, technology-driven proposals and system improvement activities.

YOUR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support and progressively take ownership of cell biology and tissue culture projects, delivering high-quality research outcomes.
• Design, execute, analyze and document experiments.
• Develop, optimize and implement new protocols, technologies and process improvements.
• Contribute to innovative solutions that support vegetable seed production, operational efficiency and long-term value creation.
• Identify and solve technical challenges through scientific expertise, critical thinking and practical implementation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transfer new methods and technologies into operational use.
• Communicate project progress, technical findings and recommendations to stakeholders, ensuring alignment and informed decision-making.
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with HSE, quality management and company standards.

The role is part of the global Seed Production Innovation organization and works in close collaboration with local colleagues who bring a broad range of expertise. The position will interact with stakeholders across SPI, Product Supply, R&D Cell Biology teams, Safety, Health and Environment, Regulatory and Legal. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic, open and practical environment with a strong “get it done” mindset, while ensuring that solutions are robust, safe, well documented and ready for implementation.

At Bayer Vegetable Seeds, we are dedicated to developing new vegetable seed varieties that growers around the world can cultivate. By combining our passion and in-depth knowledge, we strive for crop optimization and innovation for the benefit of farmers, consumers and our planet. From glasshouses to open fields, we join our forces with science and mother nature to advance health and nutrition.

WHO YOU ARE

• MSc in Plant Sciences, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Agronomy, or a related field. Candidates with a BSc and significant relevant experience may also be considered.
• Hands-on experience with plant cell biology and tissue culture techniques.
• Proven ability to develop, optimize, and implement new protocols, technologies, or processes.
• Experience with cell culture technologies, microscopy, and/or high-throughput assays is an advantage.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret experimental data and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• High attention to detail, with a strong focus on accuracy, precision, and data quality.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to convey scientific information to a range of stakeholders.
• Collaborative mindset with experience working successfully in cross-functional teams.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, documentation, and continuous improvement.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.
• Possession of a valid EU driver's license and willingness to travel locally when required.
• This position requires on-site presence in Bergschenhoek at least four days per week. Therefore, candidates are expected to be based within reasonable commuting distance of the site.

WHAT BAYER OFFERS YOU

As a modern employer, we take care of our employees and help them find a balance between career development opportunities and personal life planning. We offer our employees a wide range of career prospects, a modern working environment and competitive compensation. Bayer employees benefit from great employment conditions, such as:

• An excellent competitive salary based on a 38-hour workweek
• A gross monthly salary between € 4.457 and € 5.571 based on a 38-hour workweek, depending on your education and work experience
• An additional 8,33% holiday allowance and a bonus (based on company results)
• 25 days of leave, with the option of buying a maximum of 10 additional days
• A solid retirement plan and bicycle lease plan
• An inspiring working environment with professional and committed colleagues
• A successful innovative organization with international career possibilities
• Challenges and possibilities to learn and to develop
• At Bayer, we value your well-being. We offer support via our employee assistance program and provide various tools and initiatives to enhance your well-being

Be innovative, be Bayer. We shape the future of everyday health, patient care and agriculture. Together, we can advance health and nutrition for all. Guided by our purpose ‘science for a better life’, rooted in our DSO approach and steered by the organization’s strategy, we reach for our ambitious vision: ‘Health for all, hunger for none’.