Vice President, Research & Development

St. Louis Area, MO

A growing agricultural biotechnology company is seeking a Vice President of Research & Development to lead scientific strategy, technology development, and research execution across multiple plant biotechnology programs. This individual will oversee a team of scientists focused on developing innovative crop solutions and advancing technologies from research through product development.

This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for an accomplished scientist with deep expertise in plant tissue culture, plant transformation, molecular biology, and crop biotechnology. The successful candidate will combine strategic leadership with technical excellence while building and developing high-performing scientific teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development programs focused on innovative agricultural trait and crop improvement technologies.
• Direct and mentor multiple teams of scientists in the design, execution, and optimization of complex research initiatives.
• Drive the development, improvement, and implementation of plant transformation and plant tissue culture systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance research programs and achieve organizational objectives.
• Provide hands-on scientific leadership, including study design, problem solving, and technical guidance.
• Establish project priorities, timelines, and resource allocation to support key business goals.
• Communicate scientific findings, project updates, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership and stakeholders.
• Recruit, develop, and retain top scientific talent while fostering a collaborative research environment.
• Identify emerging technologies and scientific opportunities that can strengthen the company’s innovation pipeline.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Plant Genetics, Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in plant biotechnology, crop science, or agricultural research.
• Demonstrated success developing and optimizing plant transformation systems in an industry or large-scale academic environment.
• Extensive hands-on experience with plant tissue culture, regeneration systems, and plant transformation technologies.
• Experience working with agronomically relevant crop species.
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing multidisciplinary scientific teams.
• Strong record of scientific achievement through publications, patents, technology development, or product advancement.
• Working knowledge of plant breeding, molecular biology, gene editing, and gene expression technologies.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and strategic planning skills.
• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.

Location & Benefits

• Onsite position located in the St. Louis metropolitan area.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement savings plans, and equity participation opportunities.
• Competitive paid time off and holiday offerings.
• Opportunity to help shape the future of agricultural innovation.