Drive genetic gain and shape the future of our breeding program!
We are seeking a highly talented and motivated (Junior) Breeder ready to grow into a fully independent breeder and play a key role in advancing our diploid hybrid potato program. This is far from a routine support role – you will work directly with the Breeding Lead to execute and continuously refine the population improvement pipeline, integrating field observations, quantitative genetics, and data-driven selection.
From day one, you will evaluate breeding populations, record and analyze phenotypic and genomic data, and contribute directly to selection decisions. Over time, you will take ownership of the recurrent selection program, manage breeding populations, and make key selection decisions with increasing independence.
This is a career-defining opportunity: accelerate your development, receive mentorship from leading experts, and become a core driver of Solynta’s next-generation potato varieties worldwide.
Your role
In this position, you will:
- Contribute to the development and maintenance of heterotic pools and strengthen breeding populations aligned with key market needs
- Develop crosses, inbred lines, and test hybrids to generate high-performing breeding material
- Plan, execute, and monitor greenhouse and field trials, recording observations to support selection
- Assess early-generation inbred lines for per se performance and general combining ability (GCA)
- Select superior inbred lines based on phenotypic data in combination with genomic selection
- Summarize and communicate experimental results to inform breeding decisions
- Maintain and enhance breeding databases and analytical tools to ensure high quality data
- Collaborate with breeding, research, data science, and operations teams to improve breeding trial execution, breeding protocols, and operational efficiency
- Contribute ideas to optimize breeding strategies, trial design, and overall program effectiveness
Your profile
You bring:
- MSc or PhD in Plant Breeding, Agronomy, Quantitative Genetics, or a closely related discipline
- Hands-on experience in applied plant breeding programs (2+ years preferred)
- Strong analytical and computational skills for phenotypic and genomic data analysis
- Solid understanding of quantitative genetics, breeding methodologies, statistics, agronomy, and field trial design
You are someone who:
- Is scientifically curious and motivated to apply quantitative genetics and data-driven approaches
- Enjoys tackling complex breeding challenges and identifying opportunities to improve strategies
- Thrives working both in the field and with data, translating observations into actionable decisions
- Collaborates effectively in mentored teams while taking initiative to deliver results
- Is flexible and adaptable, comfortable in a fast-paced and evolving scale-up environment
- Communicates clearly with colleagues from different disciplines
- Has excellent written and spoken English (Dutch is a plus)
- Is willing to travel domestically, across Europe, and to other growing regions
What We Offer
- Join a passionate team driving innovations to improve global food security
- Work in a dynamic, hands-on environment where no two days are the same
- Gain mentorship and a clear path to becoming an independent breeder
- Competitive salary with professional development opportunities
- Flexible working arrangements (typically ~3 days per week on-site; more during peak periods)
- Collaborate across a fast growing, international scale-up
Take the next step in your career and become part of our revolutionary journey – apply today!
Apply via the 'apply for this job'- button on the top right.
Emmet Dalton