Breeding Specialist - Cucumber High Tech - BASF | Nunhems

Your Job 

Together with the Breeder and a broad network of experts, you help translate scientific insights into practical breeding solutions that create value for growers, customers, and consumers worldwide. 

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  Design, execute, evaluate, and document breeding trials and screening activities that support the development of commercially successful cucumber varieties. 

  
  

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  Analyze breeding and marker data, translate findings into actionable insights, and contribute to decisions that strengthen the breeding program. 

  
  

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  Maintain accurate breeding records and continuously improve data management processes and digital tools. 

  
  

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  Support the implementation of new breeding technologies and innovative methodologies to increase efficiency and accelerate progress. 

  
  

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  Coordinate the maintenance and increase of elite foundation seed in close collaboration with breeding and production teams. 

  
  

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  Collaborate on multidisciplinary projects and act as a trusted partner to the Breeder, including providing support when needed during periods of absence. 

  
  

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  Coordinate breeding activities with technicians, specialists, farm teams, laboratories, and research partners while providing technical guidance and expertise. 

  
  

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  Develop a deep understanding of germplasm and hybrid performance, using this knowledge to contribute to hybrid evaluation and future breeding strategies. 

  
  

Your Team 

You will be part of our Cucumber High Tech breeding team within R&D, based at our global headquarters in Nunhem, the Netherlands. You will report to the Breeder Cucumber High Tech and work closely with colleagues across multiple disciplines, including Molecular Breeding, Phytopathology, Production, Farm Teams, Product Development, Seed Production, Quality Assurance, and Sales. 

Our work is highly collaborative and international. We combine scientific expertise, innovation, and practical breeding knowledge to develop vegetable varieties that help shape the future of sustainable food production. You will be surrounded by passionate colleagues who enjoy sharing knowledge, challenging ideas, and celebrating success together. 

Your Profile 

What knowledge and experience make you successful in this role? 

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  Bachelor's degree in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Biology, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field. 

  
  

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  Solid knowledge of genetics, plant breeding principles, and horticultural practices. 

  
  

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  Experience working with data analysis, statistics, and breeding-related databases or digital tools. 

  
  

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  Strong computer skills, including spreadsheet applications and statistical software. 

  
  

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  Ability to collaborate effectively with scientific and technical experts from different disciplines. 

  
  

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  Strong communication skills in English and Dutch. 

  
  

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  Willingness to work in greenhouse environments and travel within the Netherlands and occasionally internationally. 

  
  

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  Ability to work under pressure, prioritize effectively, and manage multiple priorities at the same time. 

  
  

What can you expect?  

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  A varied role within an engaged and supportive team  

  
  

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  Plenty of opportunities to learn and develop yourself  

  
  

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  A position combining in-depth content and practical involvement  

  
  

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  Salary between €3,900 and €4,700 gross per month, depending on experience and knowledge  

  
  

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  Travel accounts for approximately 10–15% of your time  

  
  

Practical information  

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  Working hours: 38 hours per week  

  
  

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  Location: Nunhem  

  
  


• Please note that we already have a preferred candidate for this position. However, we warmly invite everyone who believes they are a strong fit for the role to apply.