Director of Plant Sciences

About Switch

Switch Bioworks is an early stage agricultural biotech company focused on advancing sustainable farming through next-generation biofertilizers. Our bespoke microbial products are designed to reduce synthetic fertilizer use while maintaining crop yields and improving soil health. We are seeking a driven Director to lead testing programs that translate laboratory discoveries to the field and deliver repeatable product value to farmers. If you meet the qualifications and are driven to help farmers make a better living, feed more people, and nurture the land and environment on which we all rely, we would love to hear from you.

Position Summary

The Director of Plant Sciences is a hands-on strategic and collaborative member of the R&D management team who leads all aspects of translational plant-microbe research from the lab to the field. The primary objective is to develop and execute a strategy for gathering product performance data required to advance Switch microbial product candidates from the lab through field trials. The role requires an experienced leader with a strong scientific background, excellent management skills, and a proven track record of successful project execution in Agricultural Biotechnology or a related field. The Director will be responsible for setting strategic direction, overseeing research initiatives, managing a team of scientists, and providing on-site oversight of greenhouse and field trials, closely collaborating with internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

● Develop and implement strategic research plans for plant science initiatives.

● On-site oversight of the design, execution, and analysis of grow room, greenhouse, and field trials.

● Lead and manage a team of scientists, including hiring, training, performance reviews, and professional development.

● Identify, establish working relationships, and manage CROs for greenhouse and field studies.

● Identify and evaluate scientific advancements, trends, and opportunities to accelerate research and product development.

● Manage budgets, resources, and timelines for plant science projects.

● Collaborate cross functionally to integrate plant science advancements into new products and solutions.

● Prepare and present scientific reports, publications, and presentations to internal and external audiences.

● Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and industry standards.

Qualifications

● MS/Ph.D. in Plant Sciences, Agronomy, Microbiology, Soil Chemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field.

● Minimum of 7 years of leadership experience in commercial plant science research and development.

● Expertise in the design, execution, and management of translational grow room, greenhouse, and field studies.

● Experience with biological fertilizers or other biological products.

● Deep expertise in experimental design, statistical methods, and data collection and analysis tools (e.g., ARM Software, R).

● Strong track record of managing and mentoring scientific teams, with experience managing remotely highly desired.

● Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.

● Willingness and ability to travel frequently to Midwest trial sites.

● Excellent communication, interpersonal, presentation and skills.

● Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.

● Experience with intellectual property and regulatory affairs.

● Authorized to work in the U.S.

Location

It is desired that the Director of Plant Sciences be local to field and greenhouse sites to facilitate the demand for frequent presence and hands-on participation (U.S. Corn Belt). Periodic travel to Switch headquarters, in San Carlos, CA in the San Francisco Bay Area, will be expected to build strong working relationships with the greater team. The role is expected to involve approximately 25% travel to trial locations and 25% travel to Switch headquarters in San Carlos, CA, to maintain close collaboration with the broader team.