
Principal Scientist - Biokinetics
- Bracknell, Berkshire
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Leading and contributing to various stages of the insecticide discovery pipeline, with a focus on enhancing the Bioperformance profile of insect control products.
- Fostering a positive team culture that prioritizes HSE, effective data management, and innovative thinking in insect control research.
- Applying entomological knowledge to develop and optimize novel insecticides, considering insect biology, behaviour, and resistance mechanisms.
- Develop expertise in ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) and metabolism studies, focusing on understanding the pharmacokinetics and metabolism of novel insecticides in target insects, beneficial insects, plants, and other relevant matrices to improve biological performance.
- Design and conduct bioassays to evaluate the efficacy of potential insecticides against various insect pests, including resistant populations.
- Collaborating with analytical teams on method development for insecticide detection and quantification in various samples, and interpret complex data to optimize insecticide candidates for enhanced Bioperformance.
- Working within a matrix structure, managing multiple projects and reporting lines, while fostering collaboration with cross-functional teams to achieve insect control research goals.
- Ph.D. in Entomology, Agricultural Sciences, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field relevant to insect control research and Bioperformance.
- Post Doctoral work experience, either in Academia or Industry.
- Extensive experience in insecticide research or a related field, with the ability to manage and develop team members, while fostering a positive team culture.
- Strong understanding of insect biology, physiology, and behaviour, as well as crop protection discovery pipelines and factors influencing insecticide bioperformance.
- Experience in designing and conducting insect bioassays and interpreting results.
- Proven track record of scientific publications and presentations in fields related to entomology, insect control, and bioperformance.
- Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, with experience in using relevant software tools.
- Proven ability to thrive in a matrix organization, managing multiple insecticide discovery projects, with the ability to influence across diverse functional areas.
- Experience with analytical techniques such as LC-MS/MS or HPLC.
- Familiarity with ADME concepts and their application in insecticide research and Bioperformance optimization.
- Experience in studies involving multiple biological matrices (e.g., insects, plants, soil, mammals) relevant to insecticide development.
- Knowledge of insecticide modes of action, resistance mechanisms, environmental fate, and factors affecting Bioperformance.
- Familiarity with computational tools, modelling techniques and the mindset to enable them.
- Strong project management skills and ability to navigate complex organizational structures in the context of insecticide development programs.
- Extensive benefits package including a generous pension scheme, bonus scheme, private medical & life insurance.
- Up to 31.5 days annual holiday.
- We offer a position which contributes to valuable and impactful work in a stimulating and international environment.
- The chance to work as part of a global team to address the current and future needs of the agricultural sector and help feed an ever-increasing population.
- A vibrant growth and learning culture and wide range of training options.