Applied Research Lead

For more than 40 years, Fall Creek Farm & Nursery has cultivated exceptional blueberry plants for customers all over the globe. Our products are second to none, in part, because we have high standards, superb growing conditions, and most importantly, good people.

Join us as we grow! We have an immediate opening on our Research and Development team for an experienced Applied Research Lead. This position supports the development and deployment of new blueberry varieties and will be responsible for leading the company's North American applied research initiatives.

Other responsibilities:

• Works with breeders in programs around the world to trial advanced material, provide data and feedback, and influence release decisions that support Fall Creek’s goal of bringing the best varieties to market.
• Collaborates with the Product Manager, Applied Research Leads, and Breeders to develop Variety management guides for industry professionals.
• Conducts in-depth research and analyses of production/growing issues of key customers and reports findings to internal teams.
• Leads physiological trait dissection and subsequent translation of findings into breeding applications in collaboration with Variety Development and Molecular Biology teams.
• In conjunction with Fall Creek's IT department, assumes a leadership position in the development of Fall Creek's custom research database.
• Provides training as appropriate to the Sales & Grower Support team on new and/or improved production practices and developments in Fall Creek genetics.

What you possess for consideration:

1. Typically requires a MS in horticulture, crop science or related discipline with research specializing in the associated fields, or BS degree and 3+ years of horticultural support experience.
2. Understanding of plant physiology, soil and water chemistry, plant nutrition, fertigation systems, irrigation design and field management.
3. Experience with perennial or woody crops, preferably in fruits, and a willingness to learn the blueberry industry.
4. Familiarity with plant breeding.
5. Experience working with Microsoft Office Suite including general database knowledge.
6. Ability to work as part of a team and collaborate with other scientists, breeders, and professionals in the industry in achieving goals.
7. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Ability to effectively present information in formal and informal settings to peers, customers and industry leaders. Some understanding of the Spanish language desired.
8. Ability to prioritize work within established guidelines and follow through on a variety of requests.
9. Ability to work with and manage a high level of detailed information.
10. Demonstrated track record of teamwork in a multicultural environment and ability to work effectively with diverse communities.
11. Ability to travel domestically and internationally.

Position requires an executed Proprietary Information, Assignment of Inventions and Restrictive Covenants Agreement