Researcher microbiology

Are you fascinated by how plants and beneficial microbes work together? In this role, you will contribute to the development of resilient young plants while collaborating with international partners across public and private research environments.

This is why you want to join us as Researcher Biologicals at Enza Zaden:

• You will contribute to the development of innovative seed treatments.
• You will work in a dedicated research team.
• You will have the opportunity to develop your skills in a data-driven process environment.

Make a difference as Researcher Biologicals

As a Researcher Biologicals, you will play a key role in developing novel seed treatment options against seed-and soil borne pathogens

• You plan, prepare and conduct evaluation experiments.
• You work ouwith internal and external partners in developing appropriate testing methods to check the efficacy of the treatments, the resulting germination traits and field performance.
• You build implementation and quality control protocols for selected candidate treatments.
• You contribute to the Enza Zaden product form portfolio.

You will be based at our headquarters in Enkhuizen, joining the Seed Research department as part of a close-knit team of eleven, consisting of five Assistant Researchers, two Senior Researchers, and four Researchers. You will report to one of the Senior Researchers and play a key role in advancing our research goals. In this position, you will work closely with a variety of stakeholders, including internal teams, processing partners, product development, and external collaborators, helping to translate innovative research into tangible results.

What you bring as a future colleague

You are a motivated young professional with a green mindset and several years of relevant hands-on experience in plant and/or microbial research. Passionate about plant–beneficial microbe interactions, you are eager to further develop your expertise while actively contributing from day one. You thrive at the interface of science and application and enjoy making a tangible impact in an international, collaborative environment.

In addition, you also have:

• An MSc degree in Microbiology, Phytopathology or Plant Science
• At least 3 years professional experience and experience in plant- beneficial microbe interactions.
• Experimental experience with microorganisms and molecular methods
• Strong analytical skills and a sharp eye for detail.
• Strong inter-personal skills – working in functional relationships.
• A product-oriented mindset.
• Strong communication skills in English (Dutch is a plus).

Enza Zaden as your employer

With more than 3,000 passionate team members across the world, we're on a daily mission to develop the finest vegetable varieties. Our goal? To deliver seeds with that special something: vegetables with better taste, better yields, and better resistance. On our mission to feed the world, we challenge ourselves to gain deeper insights and find the next breakthrough. We grow and innovate together, and everyone’s contribution is valued. Throughout our 86 years, our family values, passion, independence and our focus on innovation have truly set us apart. Over 480 million people eat our vegetables every day, something we are very proud of! Our passion isn't just a trademark; it's our driving force, propelling our rapid growth. If you're ready to explore your potential and thrive in a supportive environment, we welcome you to develop your talents with us. The combination of entrepreneurship, initiative and a healthy dose of determination has made Enza Zaden great and brought us where we are today. Enza Zaden is and always will be in motion: in the past, present and future.

What can you expect from us
As a family-owned company, we support you to thrive in all areas of life, so that you can be successful inside and outside of work. We offer: 

• Flexible work arrangements;

• Access to a variety of wellbeing programs and healthy food options; 

• 25 paid vacation days (employees have the option to buy extra vacation days equivalent to two times their weekly working hours); 

• 1 paid vitality day for all, plus extra days as your age increases; 

• Contribution for overnight stays if you live further away from Enza Zaden;   

• Laptop + smartphone. 

 
We aspire to be a good employer that cares for our employees, both during and after their careers at Enza Zaden. Our most important benefits include: 

• Active partnership in your professional development (personal growth); 

• Tailor-made leadership development programs and global e-learning platform; 

• Employer sponsored retirement benefits. 

Join us for a career that grows with you! Are you curious to know more about Enza Zaden click on this link to our website. 
 
Get in touch 
Apply now using the application button. You will receive an automatic confirmation of your application within minutes, and we will respond to your application within 10 working days.  
  
Do you have any questions about our application process? Please feel free to reach out to: Jasmijn Kaagman, [email protected]
 
Good to know

• A business case assessment is part of the application process;

• This position cannot be filled on an interim basis; 

• Enza Zaden is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on background, identity or personal characteristics.