Research Associate: Head of Seed Testing Laboratory

Research Associate: Head of Seed Testing Laboratory Reckenholz, Switzerland | 80-100% Your contribution organize and lead the laboratory operations in technical and personnel terms be responsible for the planning and implementation of seed quality analyses at a technical and organizational level guarantee the availability and conformity of laboratory infrastructure, equipment, and material according to international ISTA guidelines enforce and further develop quality and work standards, maintain and optimize the quality management system within the framework of the laboratory's ISTA accreditation train and educate employees regarding practical and theoretical specialist knowledge of seed examinations represent the laboratory in national and international specialist committees (for example VDLUFA and ISTA) What makes you unique University degree (MSc) in biology, agronomy, or a similar field of study as well as several years of experience in a contract laboratory experience in organizing a laboratory and leading a laboratory team are an advantage, as are knowledge in the field of seed quality and seed certification strong quality awareness and experience working in an accredited laboratory independent and structured way of working, resilient, goal- and team-oriented personality with assertiveness willingness to complete internal training to become a seed specialist (on the job) knowledge of two official languages and English In a nutshell The seed testing laboratory of Agroscope examines more than 6,000 seed samples of around 200 plant species annually for various quality parameters. Based on the international accreditation with the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA), the standardized analysis protocols are observed. As the head of the laboratory, you contribute significantly to ensuring that agriculture has access to flawless seed. What we offer Working for Switzerland We are committed to the success model of Switzerland and work for the well-being of the population. Lived diversity Thanks to equal opportunities, we develop our competencies and contribute different perspectives. Healthy at the workplace We support and advise our employees in the area of physical and mental health. All benefits Good food, healthy environment Agroscope is the federal competence center for research in the agricultural and food industry. The researchers carry out their activities at various locations in Switzerland. The headquarters is in Bern-Liebefeld (from 2026: Posieux FR). Agroscope is located within the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research WBF. Additional information The Seed Quality research group ensures that only pure and high-quality seed reaches the market. It certifies seed fields and examines seed lots in the laboratory according to legal requirements. It constantly develops its knowledge of seeds and makes it available to various national and international specialist committees. Questions about the position Balmer Deputy Head of Competence Area jpidd02a413jm jit0834jm jiy26jm