Analyst Phytopathology

The Company

Founded in 1898 and rooted in the Netherlands, HZPC has become a global market leader in innovative breeding, seed potato trading and concept development. Our ambition is a sustainable growth. We offer innovative potato varieties that are optimized for local cultivation conditions. We share knowledge and provide solutions that dynamically anticipate the climatic, cultural and commercial challenges that the whole area of food has to deal with. With 400 employees in 19 countries and exporting to more than 90 countries, we contribute to the availability of responsible food for the well-being of millions of people worldwide.

All our R&D activities are largely carried out in Metslawier. In this advanced Knowledge centre more than 100 colleagues from all over the world work on a daily basis to develop new varieties, improve current breeds and expand our knowledge in all sorts of specialisms. In addition, various activities are carried out from our Research hub in Wageningen. You can find more information on our website: www.hzpc.com.

Role Description

Analyst Phytopathology
Metslawier

Your contribution:
Doretta Boomsma (Program leader Plant Pathology): “We are looking for a pro-active colleague who understands the phytopathological field and wants to use this knowledge within the practice of potato cultivation and breeding. Within the team Plant Pathology we are working on the development and implementation of resistance tests that support the search for resistant potato varieties. By using your practical knowledge and experience in the field of plant pathogen interactions in potato breeding, you can contribute to a sustainable potato cultivation worldwide! Do you share this ambition? Then we hope you will apply!

Your opportunity:
As Analyst Phytopathology you are responsible for supporting the researchers in the development and validation of resistance tests on potatoes; this includes disease tests in the greenhouse, climate cell and in the field. Tests will be developed on the entire potato plant, as well as on tubers, roots, stems and/or leaves.

You use your knowledge and experience in plant diseases to accurately study the interplay between potato plant and pathogen and to recognize resistance and/or tolerance. This is to support potato breeding and seed production. You monitor the quality of the protocols to be implemented and work with the researchers to further optimize these protocols. You will also have a bridging function between research and application through the validation and implementation of newly developed protocols.

The position is part of the research team: Plant Disease Studies (Plant Pathology) within R&D. The working field of this team is broad and focused on as well fungi, bacteria, nematodes and viruses.

Requirements

We are looking for an enthusiastic and proactive colleague for our department of Plant Pathology who recognizes him or herself in the following:

• Minimally hbo focused on phytopathology/botany with some years of work experience as an analyst.
• Affinity with field and greenhouse tests.
• Interest in and preferably experience with plant pathogen interactions.
• Good knowledge (verbal and written) of the Dutch and English language.
• Independence in organizing and planning the work.
• You are a result-oriented team player.

Other information

What we offer:
At HZPC we attach great importance to personal initiative and personal development. You enter an informal work environment where you get the space to further develop yourself.

We offer:

• A full-time employment.
• A group of enthusiastic and experienced colleagues from specialized departments.
• Good secondary employment conditions, including a 13th month, premium free pension, travel allowance and a collective variable gratification.
• A position in an international environment in a healthy and growing organization.

Your reaction:
For more information about this position you can contact: Doretta Boomsma (Program Leader Plant Pathology) +31 6 - 51 87 28 66 or doretta.boomsma@hzpc.nl).

For more information about the process you can contact: Petra Kool (Human Resources) +31 612 44 2110 or Petra.Kool@hzpc.com)

Are you enthusiastic? Then send us your application (CV and motivation) before the 29th of September 2019 via the online application form.

This vacancy is announced internally and externally at the same time. Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.