About the Opportunity
The successful candidate will lead a team to conduct and develop assays to characterize berry plant (strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blueberry) response to a range of important diseases and pests in Mexico. This role serves to phenotype plant responses to key pathogens and pests of the berry crops to characterize the commercial and pre-breeding plant materials. This position will work collaboratively with the breeding, applied research, entomology and farming colleagues in planning and executing multi-year research work projects in laboratory, greenhouse and experimental fields and test plots. This is a great opportunity to utilize existing discipline knowledge and experience while furthering developing pathology and entomology skills in collaboration with breeding, molecular science, and plant health professionals. Responsibilities Plant resistance assays: Plan and carry out resistance assays using the established protocols for key target pathogens and other biotic stresses on all berry crops for Driscoll's varieties either at laboratory, greenhouse or experimental fields. Coordinate with Host Resistance Senior Scientist and team to develop and/or optimize existing assays for new or emerging pathogen and pests. Conduct inoculations, maintain plants, and evaluate response in trials. Manage workflow: Responsible for creating work strategy for the team, managing subordinates and day-to-day execution of the work. Work cross-functionally with the breeders, applied research, entomologists and farming colleagues to achieve a common goal. Data management and reporting: Capture, manage and analyze data for accurate reporting. Write reports in a timely manner. Share data and report to senior scientist and collaborators and communicate any appropriate observations that should inform analysis. Be able to move work forward by working independently or as a collaborative team member depending on project. Pursue host resistance work while building knowledge of the company, processes and customers to maximize connectivity within enterprise and drive benefit realization. Work cross-functionally as needed to achieve Driscoll's Mission. General plant pathology, entomology, and laboratory/field work: Strive for excellence in procedures to support Plant Health team goals, maintain facilities, and other duties as assigned. Candidate Profile PhD in a plant pathology, entomology, microbiology, or related field in plant health with at least 2 years' industry experience relevant to the position OR Master's degree with 5 years' experience in Plant Pathology, Entomology, Plant Medicine, or others relevant to biotic stress phenotyping. Knowledge and experience in molecular biology, basic bioinformatics and high throughput phenotyping would be a plus. Familiarity with microscopy and microbiological techniques, and disease and pest resistance screening. Ability to work in laboratory, greenhouse, and crop fields. Knowledge of plants and their cultivation in greenhouse and field. Detail oriented, and developed and demonstrated organizational skills. Ability to successfully work independently being a self-starter in a growing company, as well as in collaboration with other functional business units as required. Attention to detail and ability to manage and analyze data. Strong English fluency in speaking and writing, excellent communication and presentation skills. Mexico driver's license and ability to be covered under company vehicle insurance required. Some travel is required for data collection from test plots and experimental fields. Be able to work in hot and humid conditions when needed. Be able to lift 40 lbs. weight. Be able to walk and work in uneven terrain. Protect Driscoll's confidentiality and proprietary information and material. Represents Driscoll's in an ethical and business-like professional manner in all interactions with growers, co-workers, suppliers, customers and the business community at large. Hold valid passport and willingness for occasional international travel.