Scientist Molecular Biology

Within BASF Seed and Traits R&D, molecular biology refers to the design and construction of DNA vectors as well as to the molecular characterization of engineered plants using DNA, RNA, and protein-based approaches. The Molecular Biology group aims at state-of-the-art capabilities in vector design and construction, as well as in the domains of DNA, RNA, and protein-based plant characterization. The group identifies, develops, and implements the latest and novel technology and is highly experienced and predictable in workflow-based operational organization towards mínimal cost and timelines while ensuring required quality.

**RESPONSIBILITIES**
Molecular Biology is embedded in a research department that focuses on the design, creation, and testing of novel plant traits, and supports the transgenesis-, genome editing
- and mutagenesis-based workflows.

For the Molecular Biology group in our R&D Innovation Center in Gent (Belgium) we are looking for a pragmatic, enthusiastic and inspiring Scientist.

What you can expect:

- In this role you will be part of the leadership team of our Molecular Biology group.
- You will evaluate the needs & potential in the area of novel molecular plant characterization and vectoring technologies across assigned research programs.
- You will develop and implement efficient vectoring and molecular characterization workflows, ensuring optimal use of resources and cost efficiency while maintaining competitive timelines.
- You will lead a functional team of technicians and researchers that will support you in this implementation.
- You will use your excellent know-how to scout, propose, implement, and oversee state-of-the-art innovative protein technologies for high-throughput molecular characterization of our most relevant crops.
- You will contribute to the development and implementation of research strategies within assigned research programs, with associated internal and external activities, including management of external collaborations.
- You will proactively report on progress of assigned research programs and on new developments or opportunities in the field of molecular characterization to Group Leader, Program Leaders and other relevant stakeholders.
- You will proactively acquire, maintain and share relevant scientific networks and information and represent the company in external seminars.
- You will organize learning activities in the field of molecular biology, lead others into proposing innovative workflow improvements and support the development of the innovative ability and competence of the group.
- You will contribute to the strategic research portfolio development in support of the scientific leadership of Trait Research and you will act as a BASF internal consultant within the area of molecular characterization and vectoring.
- You will act as a role model with respect to ensuring compliance with the relevant company standards (Quality, Health, Safety, Environment, Biosafety, Stewardship, Regulatory, IP,...)

**QUALIFICATIONS**
- You are an experienced scientist, with a PhD degree in Biotechnology, Biochemistry or other relevant Life Sciences (or equivalent through experience).
- You have a minimum of 3 years of experience in protein-based analysis for the characterization of transgenic, mutagenized and/or genome edited plants.
- You are experienced in proposing and leading research projects, and you drive results.
- You have strong project and stakeholder management skills.
- You have experience with and are able to translate scientific know-how into strategic and practical advice for Program leaders and Molecular Biology team members.
- You have hands-on experience with protein characterization methods such as Mass Spectrometry, ELISA and Western blot in plants.
- You have solid understanding of the protein characterization field and its technologies.
- You are eager to follow up on the new developments in this field and to implement and further develop those towards high-throughput or automated workflow components that enable utilization on an industrial level.
- You act with entrepreneurial drive, overcoming obstacles and driving change.
- You have excellent team coaching skills, you can motivate and inspire others and act as a leader beyond allocated responsibility.
- You are able to build a culture of innovation by creating an environment that supports creativity and by inspiring, coaching, training and developing people to spark innovation.
- You have cross-functional work experience and can work effectively in multi-disciplinary environments.
- You have strong networking skills and can interact and cooperate with stakeholders on different levels within an organization.
- You have excellent communication and presentation skills, incl. public speaking.
- You are digitally savvy, you are familiar with information technology and its use to support business objectives and you have experience with digitalizing molecular characterization processes.
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