Head of Molecular Design and Validation

We are seeking an experienced leader to head our combined SynBio and GSO functions within the Platform, ensuring they deliver reliable, scalable impact across technology development, product pipelines, and commercial interactions. Please note - this role is for internal applications only. Job Purpose The SynBio and GSO teams provide critical molecular design and validation capabilities that underpin successful product development with both internal and external client teams. Working across Technology Development, Product Development and Technology Client programs, these teams translate experimental concepts into robust, traceable, and scalable solutions. The Head of Molecular Design & Validation leads these two functions as a single integrated capability, with clearly delegated domain leadership. They are accountable for the performance and evolution of these capabilities and work closely with the Associate Director of Platforms to provide senior operational leadership, independent decision-making, and delivery of high-impact improvements for the wider organisation. The successful candidate will act as the senior accountable lead for gene editing, cloning and in vitro validation capabilities within Tropic, ensuring technical excellence across the organisation. Responsibilities

• Lead delivery across the combined SynBio and GSO portfolio, working with the PMO to balance demand and capacity.
• Hold senior accountability for delivery, overseeing quality, timelines, and risk, and act as the primary escalation point across both functions.
• Integrate SynBio and GSO into a coherent operating model aligned with long-term Platform and company needs.
• Own operating processes and continuous improvement across SynBio and GSO.
• Lead and develop the teams, including performance management, succession planning, and future capability scoping.
• Independently identify and deliver large, high-impact improvements that benefit the wider Platform and organisation, such as new validation approaches or efficiency programmes.
• Act as a senior partner to the Associate Director of Platforms, owning day-to-day leadership and contributing to cross-platform initiatives and decisions.
• Lead with an enterprising mindset, ensuring that overall business success is prioritized in decision-making.
  
  Professional background
• PhD in a relevant field (Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry) or similar directly related experience
• 5+ years working experience in developing and validating genetic tools in crop biotechnology
Core competencies
• Strong delivery track record leading specialist scientific teams in complex, multi-stakeholder environments.
• Ability to operate at scale, whilst leading a high-performing function with organisational reach.
• Business-orientated mindset, balancing cost, value, and long-term sustainablity.
• Enterprising approach, independently driving impact beyond immediate team boundaries.
• Clear accountability mindset, with comfort owning outcomes rather than activity.
Technical competencies Depth in all areas is not expected; the role requires breadth, judgement, and effective delegation to specialist leads. Relevant experience may include:
• Molecular biology techniques relevant to synthetic biology platforms
• Commercialisation of biotechnologies
• Diverse cloning technologies and applications
• In vitro validation of biotechnologies
• Genome editing and novel genetic technologies, including bioinformatic design
  
  Tropic is one of the world's leading agricultural gene-editing companies. Our team is dedicated to the development and commercialization of high-performing varieties of tropical crops to provide significant benefits to growers, processors and consumers globally, tackling real-world problems around food security and sustainability.
Our vision is to become a leading seed business with significant ownership of its products from the laboratory to the field, while maintaining constructive relationships with growers and consumers based on transparency and trust.

Diverse workforce operating in a dynamic working environment
• Excellent learning and career development opportunities
• Social events throughout the year
• Competitive compensation and benefits including: Private Health Care, Medical Cash Plan, 25 days annual leave and Life Assurance