Do you want to shape the genetic foundation of future spinach varieties?
As a Pre Breeder, you play a critical role at the very start of the breeding pipeline developing novel genetic material, unlocking valuable traits, and accelerating innovation for our global breeding programs.
At KWS Vegetables, you operate at the intersection of science and application. You transform research insights into practical breeding solutions and ensure a continuous flow of innovation into our breeding pipelines worldwide.
You are based at our R&D location in Andijk and report to the Head of Breeding. In this role, you work closely with breeders, researchers, crop teams and external partners on a global scale.
Hungry for something fresh? Join KWS Vegetables to shape the future of vegetables by unlocking the genetics behind tomorrow’s varieties. At KWS Vegetables, we are not here to follow, but there to pioneer.
Develop and enhance germplasm by collecting, generating and characterizing genetic diversity
Discover, validate and introgress novel traits with commercial relevance into breeding material in collaboration with the breeding and research teams
Drive innovation by developing and applying new methods, tools and technologies to increase breeding efficiency and genetic gain
Translate scientific discoveries into breeder-ready solutions enabling effective trait deployment
Your path to success
Design and execute prebreeding projects from concept through delivery, ensuring a continuous pipeline of innovations
Collaborate closely with internal research teams (e.g. genetics, phytopathology, data science) to integrate trait discovery, validation and deployment
Build and maintain partnerships with external stakeholders (universities, research institutes, gene banks) to access novel diversity, technologies and expertise
Contribute to knowledge sharing by documenting results and communicating insights across the R&D organization
MSc with 3 years’ experience, or a PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics or related field
Strong expertise in genetics, plant breeding, molecular tools, plant pathology and physiology
Proven ability to manage multiple projects and translate science into application
Strong analytical mindset and problem-solving skills
Innovative, entrepreneurial and pragmatic approach
Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate in international teams
Reasons to develop your talents within KWS Vegetables
Play a key role in seeding the future by building the genetic backbone of tomorrow’s varieties
Work on cutting-edge breeding innovation with global impact
Join a highly collaborative, international R&D environment
A strategic role with ownership over projects and innovation pipeline
Plenty of room to grow as a Freshplorer within a forward-thinking organization
Competitive salary, bonus opportunities and strong benefits package.
Ready to shape the future of breeding at KWS Vegetables?
Apply now and join a global team dedicated to breaking new grounds in the vegetable seed industry!
For further details, please contact Mathieu Wident, Head of Breeding, at Mathieu.wident@kws.com
If you’re excited to seize this opportunity, click the button below to apply immediately.
KWS is one of the world’s leading plant breeding companies. With the tradition of family ownership, KWS has operated independently for more than 165 years. We focus on plant breeding and the production and sale of seed for corn, sugar beet, cereals, rapeseed, sunflowers and vegetables. KWS uses leading-edge plant breeding methods. Ca.5,000 employees represent KWS in more than 70 countries.
At KWS we work in an international environment with motivated employees and experienced teams. We want you to contribute your know-how and knowledge, your creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. We will provide you with continuous support for further professional and personal development.
This is how we think and act at KWS. If you share this viewpoint and want to seed the future with us, visit us on: www.kws.com/career.
