Phytopathology Assistant (m/f/d)
About this role
As part of our growth strategy and our plans to establish state-of-the-art Research Teams for our Vegetable Business Unit, we are looking for a Phytopathology Assistant (m/f/d), based at KWS Vegetables’ breeding station in Spain (Murcia). The Phytopathology Assistant will support the Research Scientist Phytopathology in the department needs. Areas of expertise include plant pathology (including virology, entomology and nematology), routine testing, diagnostics and disease monitoring, with a focus on application of methodologies to support breeding. You will report to the Research Scientist Phytopathology Vegetables located in Spain. The intended starting date for this position is October 1, 2026.
Your responsibilities:
- Implement and execute protocols for routine disease testing for the vegetable crops
- Active and efficient collaboration with breeding and farm teams to support breeding needs
- Precise trial setup and accurate data collection
- Phytopathology lab maintenance with the proper quality standards
- Implement and execute hygiene measures for the vegetable crops
Your Tasks:
- Assist and support the Research Scientist of Phytopathology in optimizing the efficiency and output of the department tasks
- Collaborate in the development of protocols for routine disease testing and responsible for the implementation and execution of these tests
- Design, plan and set up the phyto trials in greenhouse and growth chambers
- Data collection of resistance screening tests including data analysis and report elaboration
- Support Research Scientist of Phytopathology in implementation and execution of hygiene measures in phyto facilities
- Responsible of pathogen database, and proper maintenance of pathogen stocks to ensure the availability of inoculum for trials
- Responsible for lab maintenance and diagnostics
- Support on Phyto administrative processes
- Manage Technicians and farm personnel: plan, organize, conduct, provide follow up the daily work including sowings, transplanting, samplings, trial removal
Your profile:
- BSc in Biology, Horticulture, Plant Breeding or a closely related discipline
- Working experience in the field of plant pathology is a plus
- Language skills: Spanish and English (good)
- Good communication and analytical skills
- Team player and good interpersonal skills
- Willingness to travel local and internationally (10-15%)
We look forward to receiving your application through the KWS Job Portal application system.
Company at a glance
KWS is one of the world’s leading plant breeding companies. With the tradition of family ownership, KWS has operated independently for more than 170 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.
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