Group Leader - Fungicide

The role holder shall report to the Director of Biology and shall lead a team of highly qualified research scientists in fungicide research in R&D, direct and supervise multiple In-Vitro / In-Vivo testing projects in compound screening, Mode of action, Toxicology and Bioavailability, thereby advancing small molecule lead optimization projects.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Provide strong and scientific and technical leadership in the design, execution, analysis and interpretation of a broad range of assays, elucidate mechanism of action at the molecular , cellular level, and understand disease biology.
2. Responsible for research, planning and implementing new programs and protocols in the different functions of invitro biology and monitoring the overall progress of the molecules from discovery to early development.
3. Well versed with different screening methodologies (Food poison technique, liquid testing at In-vitro level and Greenhouse screening cascade) of compounds according to pest and chemistry involved.

Strategic

• Active support of the philosophy, values and strategy of PI Industries.
• Efficient contribution to the overall success of PI R&D by driving innovation according to objectives and targets being set by the PI R&D management team.
• Fulfilling requirements from business (reflected in research targets), biology (reflected in biological efficacy profile).
• Support of Development functions within the frame of given expertise and resources, for instance reflected in requirement for human and environmental safety and for regulatory affairs.
• Identifying proprietary research results and taking appropriate measures to maximize the value of intellectual property for PI R&D (patent applications).

Project Execution

• Establishing a state-of-the-art biological research at R&D (personnel, skills and capabilities, technical facilities, operations and operational relationships)
• Manage the interfaces of in Biological research to early Development (e. g. field testing, human safety, environmental safety)
• Explain the overall research objectives and outcomes expected to team members.
• Mentor team to resolve any technical queries from team related to research activites.
• Review and approve research results and ensure correctness and validity of analysis and findings

Educational Qualification

• Ph.D. in Agriculture (Entomology/ Plant Pathology) from a reputed University / Institute with excellent academic credentials.
• Candidates who have been leading team involved in entomological research in Public/private institutions
• Research publications and/or patents appreciated
• Deep knowledge of Crop Protection, crop Knowledge, Understanding of Laboratory/Green house & Field experiments & crop physiology

Experience

• At least 15 years of post-academic industry research experience.