Job Description

The Sugarbeet Breeding Department of KWS SAAT SE & Co. KGaA is seeking a dedicated and forward‑thinking Sugarbeet Breeder (f/m/d) to join our team in Einbeck, Germany, starting July 1, 2026, in a permanent, full‑time role In this position, you will contribute to the development of competitive sugarbeet varieties with improved tolerance and resistance to insects and pests.

Following a structured onboarding phase, you will gradually take responsibility for insect‑resistance trait pre‑breeding as well as defined elements of the sugarbeet variety breeding process. You will work closely with other breeders, colleagues from breeding stations and scientific departments to challenge existing routines and integrate cutting‑edge genetic and molecular innovations into efficient breeding workflows.

This role is well-suited for a motivated individual who enjoys combining scientific curiosity with practical breeding progress. You will help advance our young and dynamic insect‑resistance breeding program - contributing to varieties that support farmers worldwide in an increasingly challenging and rapidly changing environment.

Your responsibilities:

• Develop and define traits and trait components related to insect and pest resistance in sugarbeet.
• Drive innovation and research efforts in sugarbeet breeding, with a focus on insect and pest resistance and market‑relevant traits.
• Lead pre‑breeding initiatives to strengthen insect and pest resistance within the sugarbeet portfolio.
• Contribute to the development of competitive sugarbeet varieties that meet current and future market requirements.
• Plan, oversee, and execute complex breeding programs and operational workflows.
• Collaborate closely with staff across multiple KWS breeding stations to ensure aligned breeding progress.
• Engage in regular scientific exchange with experts from various KWS departments.
• Prepare and deliver structured reports on activities, progress, and achievements.
• Actively participate in working groups, workshops, and internal breeders’ meetings, contributing expertise and insights.

Your profile:

• PhD or M.Sc. in plant breeding, plant genetics, plant sciences, or a related field.
• Solid understanding of plants and their interactions with biotic and abiotic environmental factors.
• Strong knowledge of plant genetics and its application in breeding programs.
• Understanding and application of principles of quantitative genetics and population genetics
• Basic statistical knowledge and confidence working with databases and MS Office; basic R skills are a plus.
• Proven ability to manage complex, long‑term research or breeding projects.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in an international, interdisciplinary team.
• High attention to detail while maintaining an overview of strategic breeding objectives and the broader context.
• Flexibility to adapt work activities to the seasonal demands of plant breeding.
• Willingness and physical ability to perform fieldwork under challenging climatic conditions during summer and autumn.
• Readiness to travel frequently (Germany, Europe, North America).
• Fluent English skills; German language skills are an advantage. A willingness to learn and actively use German is expected.
• Valid driver’s license (category B) or willingness to obtain one after hiring.

What You Can Expect

• A responsible, hands-on role with direct impact on current research and breeding projects
• Modern working environments in the field, greenhouse, and digital research areas
• As a family-owned company, we live a culture shaped by our values: “Closeness, Reliability, Vision, and Independence”
• We offer thorough and comprehensive onboarding into our operational processes
• A trusting, respectful, and friendly working atmosphere where your ideas and commitment are valued—your professional development matters to us
• Attractive framework conditions: company pension scheme, capital-forming benefits, Christmas and vacation bonuses, employee shares, childcare allowance, JobRad bike leasing

We look forward to receiving your application via our online application system SuccessFactors! Please click on the “Apply” button in the online advertisement.