Pepper breeder

• Master’s degree in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Crop Science; Ph.D. degree in Plant Breeding a plus.
• Minimum 3+ years of experience in plant breeding.

Tasks and responsibilities:

• Breeding commercially superior types of pepper for Spanish and international markets.
• Manage germplasm resources, including selection, characterization, and conservation of elite breeding materials.
• Design and execute multi-location field trials to evaluate performance under diverse environmental conditions.
• Analyse field trial data to take targeted breeding decisions and optimize variety selection.
• Optimize efficiency of the breeding program by developing and implementing new technologies and breeding methods.
• Assist and support the Molecular Biology and Plant Pathology Department team.
• Collaborate with the Breeding Coordinator on short- and long-term breeding strategies.
• Actively participate in Crop Team discussions to enhance information exchange and support effective decision-making.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including seed production, sales, and marketing, to align breeding objectives with market needs.
• Lead and coordinate breeding activities, by ensuring team efficiency through structured planning, clear communication, and strategic resource allocation.
• Manage the personnel flow within the breeding team located on the site and on external sites, including appraisal and training, in order to select and maintain competent employees and ensure an efficient and effective functioning breeding team.
• Stay updated with advancements in pepper breeding, genetics, and market trends.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and technical documentation to communicate research findings.

Critical knowledge:

• A background in molecular markers or plant pathology would be a plus.
• Proven track record in selection, development and release of commercial hybrids.
• Experience in budget and personnel management, including recruitment and development of staff.
• Experience with data management.

Must have skills and competencies:

• Proficiency in molecular breeding techniques, marker-assisted selection, and genomic tools.
• Knowledge of field trial design and data analysis.
• Familiarity with plant pathology and entomology related to pepper breeding.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work independently as well as within a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team-based environment with multidisciplinary teams.
• Language skills: Fluent English and Spanish are required.
• Experience in an international work environment; ability to deal with various and diverse cultures and work habits.
• Ability to work under difficult climatic conditions.
• Must be willing to travel for extended periods of time nationally and internationally.

This position is based in Almeria, Spain.

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