WELCOME TO BASF

Agriculture plays a fundamental role in fulfilling many of humanity's basic needs: food, feed, energy. To support growers and those who take care of our environment, BASF develops innovative solutions for farming and pest control so that we can effectively contribute to improving people's lives and business' demands. Come join us on our journey to create solutions for sustainable agriculture at the Innovation Center of BASF Belgium Coordination Center CommV in Ghent, Belgium.

 

We are seeking people who thrive in a culture of creativity, openness, responsibility, and entrepreneurial spirit. In our organization, we encourage and celebrate innovative thinking, where ideas flow freely and are nurtured. We value individuals who take ownership of their work and are accountable for their actions. We foster an entrepreneurial mindset, where taking calculated risks and seizing opportunities are encouraged to drive growth and success. Join our team and be part of an environment that values and rewards creative thinking, collaboration, and a can-do attitude.

 

Within BASF Seeds and Traits R&D, Screening refers to the exploration of genetic diversity using functional bioassays. The Screening group is responsible for developing and performing functional bioassays for early selection of candidate leads, based on interactions between small molecules and plant target genes but also interactions between proteins, RNA and DNA. A diverse range of biological screening systems (insects, yeast and plant based) are being developed to solve a specific research question. The Screening group is embedded within Trait Research, which focuses on the design, creation and testing of candidate leads as gene-based solutions for crop improvement.

 

We are currently seeking a talented, motivated, and inspiring Scientist to join our Screening group at the R&D Innovation Center in Ghent, Belgium. In this role, you will design and implement innovative discovery approaches and methodologies targeting Disease Control genes.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT You contribute to the development of advanced screening concepts in plants for the rapid identification, validation, and optimization of lead candidate genes for disease resistance.You design and implement innovative (cell-based) discovery approaches, ensuring optimal resource utilization and cost efficiency while maintaining competitive timelines.You lead and coach a functional team of technicians and researchers in the lab, implementing efficient screening workflows.You critically assess experimental outcomes and adjust research plans as necessary to ensure optimal results, delivering progress updates on critical milestones to all relevant stakeholders.You represent the company at external seminars, publish scientific articles, contribute to IP filing, and build a strong internal and external network, while also supporting strategic research portfolio development in Trait Research.You scout, propose, implement, and oversee emerging technologies for high-throughput screening workflows in our crops of interest.You serve as a role model in ensuring compliance with company standards (Quality, Health, Safety, Environment, Biosafety, Stewardship, Regulatory, IP).WHAT YOU OFFER You hold a PhD in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related life sciences field (or possess equivalent experience) and have a minimum of 3 years of experience in molecular plant-microbe interactions. You have extensive experience in plant disease resistance engineering, including the identification, cloning, and engineering of cell surface receptors and NLRs, and are eager to implement the latest trends and innovations in an industrial setting. Expertise in genome editing, CRISPR screens, cell-based functional assays, directed evolution, single-cell technologies, or plant cell sorting is highly regarded.You provide scientific leadership for internal and external program work packages, effectively managing collaborations with partners, and excel in developing innovative research proposals that incorporate novel technology platforms to advance project objectives.You possess strong leadership and team coaching skills, motivating and inspiring others, while fostering collaboration in diverse environments through a multi-cultural mindset.You demonstrate proactivity, with well-developed communication and negotiation skills that enable effective interactions with stakeholders. You build a culture of innovation by creating an environment that supports creativity and by coaching and developing people.You are digitally savvy, familiar with information technology to support business objectives, and have experience in digitalizing research processes. You are fluent in English.WHAT WE OFFER A permanent contract within an attractive working environment in a professional and motivated team.A role with challenging assignments and responsibilities.An attractive base salary in relation to your diploma and competencies, an annual bonus and extra-legal benefits.A good work-life balance where regular working from home is possible.HOW TO REACH US

If you need more information about the process or the vacancy, please reach out to Patrick at: talent-acquisition-belgium@basf.com

ABOUT US

BASF is a multinational company dedicated to revolutionizing agricultural science. We are committed to developing innovative solutions that address global challenges in food security and sustainability. 

Diversity is our greatest strength!

Become a part of our winning formula for success and develop the future with us - in a global team that embraces inclusion and equal opportunities irrespective of gender, age, origin, sexual orientation, disability or belief.