Job Description

Syngenta is a leading developer and producer of seeds. We bring farmers more vigorous, stronger, resistant plants, including innovative hybrid varieties and biotech crops that can thrive even in challenging growing conditions. Each of our 28,000 employees in more than 90 countries work together to solve one of humanity’s most pressing challenges: growing more food with fewer resources. A diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace environment are enablers of our ambition to be the most collaborative and trusted team in agriculture.

Breeder / Germplasm Development Scientist Cabbage

• Type: Permanent
• Department: Vegetables and Flowers Seeds Development
• Location: Enkhuizen (NL)

Into Action

As a Germplasm Development Scientist – Cabbage, you will be at the forefront of creating innovative inbred lines and hybrid varieties for targeted markets. You will take full ownership of the breeding program, overseeing every aspect, from nurseries and hybrid testing to all related breeding activities.

Your mission: develop commercially successful hybrids, drive genetic gain, and ensure the long-term success of the breeding program. You will design and implement breeding strategies, apply marker-assisted breeding techniques, and use population and hybrid performance prediction methods to optimize results.

The Challenge

In this role, you will manage and grow a product development portfolio aligned with market segment needs and business plans, addressing short-, medium-, and long-term targets. You will:

• Communicate regularly and effectively with peers and supervisors on project status and outcomes.
• Stay attuned to market demands across key regions and translate them into clear breeding objectives.
• Build expertise in crop biology, germplasm management, and critical trait priorities.

Qualifications

Your Profile

• A BSc degree with proven experience in a similar role, or an MSc/PhD in Plant Breeding, Plant Physiology, Plant Science, or related fields.
• Solid knowledge and hands-on experience in conventional plant breeding, germplasm management, diversity analysis, experimental design, quantitative genetics, and statistical analysis (including prediction theory).
• A strong grasp of genome-wide (GW) and marker-assisted breeding fundamentals.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills in English are essential; proficiency in Dutch is beneficial

Additional Information

What’s in it for you?

• The opportunity to receive an annual bonus and profit-sharing – we celebrate success together!
• Flexible working options where possible to support a healthy work-life balance, including the ability to work from up to 2 days per week from home.
• Grow and thrive – unlimited access to Learning Edge, our online learning platform, where you can continuously develop yourself through various training programs and courses.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offering free advice, coaching, and support in areas such as career development, emotional support, and legal or financial advice.
• 25 vacation days + 1 vitality day to recharge. From the age of 35, you will receive an extra vacation day every 5 years.
• An attractive pension plan – because your future matters to us.
• If you live more than 5 km away, you will receive a travel allowance of €0.23 per km, up to a maximum of 50 km one way.

Your Chance!

At Syngenta, we believe in creating an inclusive and diverse work environment where all employees are valued and given the opportunity to grow. We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive package of secondary employment benefits.

Ready to grow with us?

Join our team and help shape the future of agriculture! Do you recognize yourself in this profile? Don’t wait, apply now! You can apply online via our intranet or our career page at www.syngenta.com

For questions, please contact our recruiter Lars Conijn at lars.conijn@syngenta.com or call/WhatsApp + 31 6 28894484