PhD vacatures

DLF is the global leader in grass seed and forage crop solutions. DLF is looking for a Senior Grass Breeder for their Breeding Station in Moerstraten, they are seeking a results-driven and inspiring professional to further strengthen our world-class R&D organisation.

Entrepreneurial researcher, inspiring team leader with knowledge of modern technology

In this key role, you will be responsible for the development and testing of a broad portfolio of forage grasses. You will design and implement multi-year breeding and product development programs—primarily in forage grasses—fully aligned with DLF’s global R&D strategy.

• Overseeing a comprehensive breeding programme focused on developing high-performing varieties for commercial markets:
  • Create long-term breeding strategies supported by detailed annual trial plans;
  • Apply advanced evaluation, selection, and pollination techniques throughout the process;
  • Use data-driven insights to guide decision-making at every breeding phase.
• Planning and conducting field trials across multiple locations to assess genotype performance under varying environmental conditions.
• Interpreting and integrating field trial results to strengthen breeding decisions and refine variety advancement.
• Working closely with operational teams to coordinate, support, and execute all breeding activities effectively.
• Producing clear reports, presentations, and technical documents to share progress, outcomes, and innovations within the breeding programme.

• Master’s or PhD degree in Plant Sciences, preferably specializing in Plant Breeding, Crop Science, Horticulture, or Biology.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience as a Breeder, Senior Breeder, Breeding Manager, or a comparable role. Experience with grass seed is an advantage but not essential.
• Experience working in R&D in a commercial seed production environment.
• Knowledge of field trial design, data analysis and statistics.
• Expertise in designing complex plant breeding strategies and strong background in advanced breeding technology, and proven knowledge of and experience with population breeding is an advantage.
• Excellent command of English, both spoken and written.
• Open to international applicants; relocation support can be discussed.
• Ability to work in an international team-based environment with multidisciplinary teams.
• Commercial understanding is important in this role.
• Willing to travel mainly Europe but sometimes overseas.
• Leadership experience is preferred; leadership potential is required but collaboration more important.
• Collaborative, working closely together with the global team.
• Strong people manager capable of leading, motivating, and coaching employees at different levels.
• Able to analyze complex information and translate it into effective breeding programs.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to interact professionally across operational teams, management, and external partners.
• Robust personality with an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Pragmatic, intellectually strong, and results-oriented with a no-nonsense approach.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and data management skills.

The DLF Breeding station in Moerstraten Noord-Brabant.

A dynamic and varied full-time job with opportunities for personal development and advancement at a reliable international organization. Excellent salary and other allowances in a small and stable team. Employment conditions are appropriate to the position within this ambitious company.

DLF has outsourced the recruitment and executive selection for the position of Senior Grass Breeder exclusively to Up&Up Talent Solutions.

For more information about the organisation, please go to the website of DLF.