Research Scientist Plant Pathology / Plant Microbiology

Position: Research Scientist Plant Pathology / Plant Microbiology
Location: Hyderabad
Function: Biologicals R&D | Early Research
Level: E3 – E4

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate and innovative Research Scientist - Plant Pathology / Plant Microbiology to join our Biologicals Early Research team. The role focuses on the discovery, screening, and characterization of biological candidates including microbial-derived compounds, peptides, biomolecules, and other biological inputs for applications in crop protection, crop growth enhancement, nutrient use efficiency, and stress management.

The incumbent will play a key role in developing robust screening platforms, evaluating plant-microbe interactions, conducting disease bioassays, and generating scientific insights that support the advancement of next-generation biological solutions for agriculture.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute in vitro and in vivo studies involving microorganisms, biomolecules, and secondary metabolites.
• Develop, maintain, and troubleshoot microbial cultures, inoculum preparation, and pathogen propagation systems.
• Conduct disease screening, bioassays, and plant-microbe interaction studies under controlled conditions.
• Establish reliable and scalable biological screening methodologies.
• Analyze experimental data using statistical tools and present insights to multidisciplinary teams.
• Maintain high standards of laboratory practices, documentation, and data integrity.
• Collaborate closely with Molecular Biology, Profiling, Greenhouse Screening, Formulation, and Project Management teams.
• Support assay development, mechanistic studies, and candidate prioritization activities.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to scientific capability building.
• Ensure adherence to safety, quality, and compliance standards.

Candidate Profile

Education

• Ph.D. or Master's in Plant Pathology, Plant Microbiology, Crop Physiology, or related disciplines from a reputed institute/university.

Experience

• Ph.D. with 0-3 years of relevant experience

Preferred Industry Background

• Biologicals R&D
• Agri-biotech
• Crop Protection
• Peptide/Biomolecule Research
• Agricultural Research Institutes

Required Skills

• Strong expertise in Plant Pathology and Microbiology.
• Experience in microbial culture handling, propagation, and characterization.
• Knowledge of plant-pathogen interactions and microbial modes of action.
• Hands-on experience in biological screening and assay development.
• Strong experimental design, analytical, and statistical interpretation skills.
• Understanding of agricultural sustainability, crop health, and crop protection technologies.
• Excellent scientific communication and collaboration skills.

What We Are Looking For

Scientific curiosity and innovation mindset
Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities
High accountability and results orientation
Excellent documentation and data integrity practices
Ability to work in fast-paced, multidisciplinary research environments

Join us in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture through cutting-edge biological innovations.

Location: Hyderabad | Function: Biologicals – Early Research | Employment Type: Full-Time | Level: E3-E4