Plennegy Research: Senior Biotechnologist at Plennegy Group

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Gather and assess germplasm for onion, tomato, squash and other crops as needed

• Request breeding sources from gene-banks and other breeding partners
• Plant, grow and evaluate material under suitable conditions (tunnel / field)
• Characterize material by coordinating genotyping and pathology screening
• Identify possible traits of interest for further investigation

Pre-breeding and QTL mapping of identified traits

• Cross-pollinate identified material to suitable donors for population development
• Coordinate trait mapping using populations in conjunction with the breeder and/or pathology.
• Marker improvement and validation studies using suitable populations.
• Trait identification for marker development from published literature using bioinformatics software (eg Persephone).
• Liaise with external service providers for genotyping/sequencing projects.
• Assist with back-crossing activities if required

Investigate and develop onion speed breeding protocols

• Manage day-to-day operations and functioning of the controlled environment facility
• Develop through experimentation methods for onion speed breeding (daylength, temperature, light quality)
• Validate protocols for bulb development and subsequent flowering and seed development
• Advance breeding material through successive cycles of breeding in conjunction with breeders needs
• Assist with population development for marker development

Teamwork and Collaboration

• Interacts appropriately and respectfully with others
• Offers expert service / advice to colleagues.
• Displays a positive attitude towards the company and its goals.
• Develops constructive and co-operative working relationships with team members inside and outside the team.
• Deals with conflict in a constructive manner.
• Acts responsibly and professionally at all times, fostering goodwill and a positive image for the Company.

General

• Performs other duties and special projects as assigned by supervisors.
• Keep updated with new molecular protocols/ techniques that could be applicable to PLENNEGY RESEARCH’s Biotechnology Centre.
• Suggest implementation of new genetic technologies and protocols to superiors.
• Responsible for general housekeeping in PCR set-up laboratory.
• Good laboratory practice to be maintained at all times.
• General Health and Safety Rules to be adhered to at all times in accordance with the OHSA.

REQUIREMENTS:

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology / Plant Genetics / Plant Breeding (Essential)

Experience:

• 3 years as a Junior Biotechnologist
• 7 Years as a Biotechnologist