Team Lead – Technology Development

We are looking for a talented and experienced scientistto design anddeliverinnovative crop biotechnology projects through leadership ofthe trait enablementarm of the Technology Development(TechDev)team. 

Job Purpose 

OurTechDevteaminnovatesacross gene editing,RNAi,planttransformation and assay development to support Tropic’s crop improvementprogrammes and accelerate research into real-world impact. 

In this role, you will own the delivery of key, high-profile technology projects to support gene editing and RNAi implementation in crops.To achievethis, you willlead andmanage the trait enablement team ofup to seven researchers and technical experts. 

Youwill combinescientificexpertisewith people and project management skills toplan andimplement a portfolio ofcutting-edge projects.You will be an excellent communicator who willcontribute to team-wide scientific strategy, mentorcolleagues and help shapeTechDev’s direction. 

Responsibilities 

• Own a portfolio of projects including gene editingoptimizationandnovelRNAistrategies in crops
  
• Manage people andbe responsible fortheir professional development 
  
• Manage resource, mitigaterisks and deliver projectson time
  
• Communicate progress, risks and recommendations clearly to colleagues and stakeholders at all levels.
  
• Contribute to TechDev’s scientific strategy and direction beyond your own workstream.
  
• Mentor colleagues, share expertise generously and champion a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
  
• Maintain rigorous records and champion safe, high-quality laboratory practice.
  
  

Requirements 

Technical 

• PhD or equivalent in Molecular Biology, PlantBiotechnology or related field, withadditionalrelevantpostdoctoral or industry experience
  
• Proven ability to lead a team to deliver high-quality technical outputs under time pressure
  
• Proven ability to design andtroubleshoot complexscience plans
  
• Critically assess dataandmake evidence-based recommendations and decisions
  
• Expertise in crop transformation, geneediting or RNAi, particularly in an industry setting, is an advantage
  
  

Transferable 

• Demonstrableownership and accountabilityfor your work, and your team’s performance
  
• Proven management skills and drive to supportthe professional development of your team and colleagues
  
• Adaptable to evolving business needs, and able to deliver in a fast-paced, ambitious environment.
  
• Proactive, curious and innovative – someone who contributes beyond their ownproject and actively improves the team around them.
  
• Clear communicator tokey stakeholders, meticulousrecord-keeper and genuine team player.
  
  

About Us 

Tropic is one of the world’s leading agricultural gene-editing companies. Our team is dedicated to the development and commercialization of high-performing varieties of tropical crops to provide significant benefits to growers,processors and consumers globally, tackling real-world problems around food security and sustainability.   

We use our proprietaryGEiGS® platform andcutting-edge gene editing tools to develop improved varieties with higher yields, diseaseresistance and sustainability traits.TheTechDev team is a central hub for the development and implementation ofnew technologies thataddress global agricultural challenges.  

Why Join Tropic? 

• Lead atechnologyteam, with direct impact on Tropic’s pipeline and science strategy. 

• Science with real stakes – crops that feed and sustain billions. 

• Tailoredcareer development as the team and company scales, with cross-functional visibility across R&D. 

• Social events throughout the year. 

• Competitive package including Private Medical Care, Medical Cash Plan, 25 days annual leave and Life Assurance. 
  

Further Information 

•  Location – Norwich, UK
  
•  Contract – Full Time, Permanent
  
•  Closing Date –28th September 2026
  

Ready toshape ambitious science with real-world impact? Apply here.