Researcher molecular markers development

A unique opportunity to work for one of the most innovative, international tomato breeders. Axia is looking for a Researcher molecular markers development. A marker development researcher is responsible for identification and development of molecular markers linked with important and complex breeding traits to accelerate breeding progress by enabling early selection of desirable plants.

Axia is an innovative vegetable seed breeding company focused on tomatoes in the Netherlands, with additional breeding activities in cucumber, pepper, eggplant and zucchini in countries such as Spain and Turkey. The involvement of the team and modern breeding techniques are key to its success.

What are you going to do?

• Study scientific literature and translate scientific leads into research topics
• Communicate research ideas and propose the experimental approach
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of genotyping technologies and data analysis tools
• Together with the breeding team, identify germplasm and create research populations
• Initiate, plan and conduct greenhouse experiments, and collect phenotypic data
• Analyse genomic and phenotypic data for trait discovery
• Identify genetic variation associated with a trait (QTL mapping), and design and optimise KASP assays
• Validate new markers across different germplasm and trials
• Ensure that developed markers are reliable and scalable for routine breeding use
• Collaborate closely with other researchers, breeders and product development

Competences

• MSc or PhD in plant science with relevant work experience in a scientific group or laboratory
• A flexible and proactive work approach
• Ability to work independently and with patience
• Analytical and critical mind
• Solid knowledge of quantitative and molecular genetics and genotyping
• Strong communication and organizational skills

What do we offer you

• A challenging position within an internationally operating and growing breeding company
• A responsible role with a direct impact on multiple departments
• Room for initiative and professional development
• Collaboration within a committed team in an open and informal working environment