Quantitative Genetics Researcher

HZPC Research BV is seeking a motivated and talented PhD/MSc researcher to join our Biometrics and Quantitative Genetics group on a full-time, permanent basis at our Metslawier/Wageningen location. The aim of this role is to analyze potato breeding data and support both polyploid outcrossing and diploid inbreeding systems in making data-driven decisions to accelerate the potato breeding program. As part of our genetics team, you will collaborate closely with research and breeding teams within HZPC Research BV, fostering an innovative environment to develop new ideas and approaches for advancing potato breeding initiatives.

Your Opportunity
You will support our breeding programs by applying your expertise in statistical data analysis within the Quantitative Genetics and biometrics team. Working closely with senior scientists, you’ll undertake hands-on projects involving phenotypic and genomic data for genomic prediction and mapping studies. By organizing, analyzing, and visualizing data, you will contribute to informed decision-making within our breeding programs, enabling the development of better varieties for a sustainable and healthy future.

Your Profile

• A PhD in Quantitative Genetics, Plant/Animal Breeding, or a related field. Alternatively, a Master's degree with at least 3 years of relevant experience in a breeding company or academic setting.
• Proficiency in managing large datasets for genomic prediction, Genomic selection, plant/animal quantitative genetics, envirotyping, crop modeling, and genotyping technologies.
• Hands-on experience in QTL mapping and GWAS analysis for polyploid and diploid populations.
• Advanced programming skills in open-source languages such as R, Python, or Julia.
• Expertise in mixed-effects model regression and machine learning techniques.
• Fluency in English is essential; knowledge of Dutch is a plus.
• Highly organized, with strong communication abilities and a team-oriented mindset.
• Capable of working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks effectively.
• Independent working style with strong project management capabilities.

What We Offer
At HZPC, we value personal initiative and professional development. Joining us means becoming part of an informal and supportive work environment where you can continue to grow.

We offer:

• A full-time, permanent contract with options for remote work.
• Comprehensive employment benefits, including a 13th month, premium-free pension, travel allowance, and collective variable pay.
• Opportunities to hone your analytical skills and work with empirical data.
• Collaboration with a team of enthusiastic and experienced colleagues from specialized departments.
• An international work environment within a healthy and growing organization.
• Access to various training programs through the HZPC Academy.
• A flexible work arrangement requiring at least three days per week on-site in Metslawier or Wageningen.

Our Organization
Founded in 1898 and rooted in the Netherlands, HZPC is a global leader in innovative potato breeding, market development, trading, and concept development. Committed to sustainable growth, we deliver potato varieties optimized for local cultivation conditions and provide dynamic solutions to address climatic, cultural, and commercial challenges in food production. Our mission is to ensure the availability of responsible food for millions worldwide.

Our R&D activities are primarily based in Metslawier, where over 100 colleagues from around the world collaborate daily to develop new varieties, improve existing breeds, and expand our expertise across various specializations. We also conduct activities from our research satellite in Wageningen and stay on top of new developments

For more information, please visit our website: www.hzpc.com

Your Reaction
We look forward to receiving your online application (CV and cover/motivation letter**) through our application system.

** Kindly specify your preferred location in the cover letter (Metslawier, Wageningen, or no preference) along with your expected annual salary.
For more details about the job profile, contact:

• Mohammad Ghanbari (Scientist, Biometrics and Quantitative Genetics) at mohammad.ghanbari@hzpc.com

For information about the application process, reach out to:

• Ronald Peereboom (Manager, People and Culture) at ronald.peereboom@hzpc.com