Scientist in Systems Biology

We are hiring a Scientist in Systems Biology, who will be working at the forefront of advancing our understanding and application of systems biology, with a focus on modeling biological processes for technology innovation for crop improvement.

This holistic approach enables a deeper understanding of complex traits and the interplay of various processes across different species, tackling areas that have been too complex to unravel and offering insights into previously not well-understood biological phenomena. Affinity with AI is a plus.

KeyGene is a highly innovative global research company that develops and applies breakthrough technologies for the improvement of vegetables and other crops. Our work contributes directly to the success of our shareholders and other partners and supports the long-term agricultural needs of society. Our shareholders are four renown plant breeding companies, which produce more than 30% of the vegetable seeds sold worldwide.

Our Crop Data Science department is the company’s central hub for advanced data science. With our strong interdisciplinary and enthusiastic teams, we design, build, and apply highly innovative methods using systems biology and artificial intelligence (AI) to tackle diverse data challenges in genomics, trait research, digital phenotyping, and breeding strategies.

As a Scientist in Systems Biology, you will play a crucial role in developing and applying innovative, data-driven solutions for a variety of research applications. Your role will be tailored to your personal strengths and ambitions, allowing you to contribute to the strategic design of our biological models, develop novel methods, and deploy these to create value from data and solve domain-specific problems.

You will be part of a vibrant team in data science and bioinformatics. Its members share strong interests and competences in mathematics and statistics, machine learning, computer vision, data engineering, and more, and have a passion for connecting these with domain knowledge, from crop genomics to breeding.

• PhD in Systems Biology, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related field.
• Strong background in systems biology and modeling, with knowledge in data science and AI being a plus.
• A natural desire to stay up to date with the latest developments in systems biology and to engineer innovative solutions that change the way we improve the crops that feed the world.
• Prior knowledge of plant biotechnology and breeding is not required, but you must be eager to learn the basics and be able to communicate and collaborate successfully with domain experts.

• Hands-on experience with biological modeling tasks, technologies, and frameworks (e.g., network analysis, dynamic modeling, stochastic modeling) and programming languages (e.g., Python, R).
• Proven track record in the development and application of systems biology solutions in research and development.
• A curious, creative, enthusiastic, and “can-do” mindset.
• Self-starter, able to work both independently and in a collaborative, dynamic, cross-functional environment with varied teams and projects.
• Excellent communication skills in English and across all levels of expertise.

KeyGene offer

KeyGene offers a dynamic job with a competitive salary and benefits in an exciting, highly innovative, and ambitious research company. At KeyGene, you will become part of a passionate, inviting, and collaborative team. You will be able to work on the continuous development of our technology innovation and thus contribute to our internationally recognized position. The position is based in Wageningen (The Netherlands), a worldwide renowned center of agricultural research.

More information & how to apply

Additional information about the position can be obtained from Maureen van Eijnatten, Program Scientist Computational Biosystems, telephone +31 317 466866. For more information about the application procedure, please contact the HR department at careers@keygene.com.

If you are interested in this vacancy, please upload your letter of motivation and cv via the form below before Monday, March 17^th, 2025.