Job objective

Our organization keeps moving. This results in a fast-changing and, therefore, challenging environment. As a Project Lead Artificial Intelligence and Data Science you strengthen the R&D Trait Genetics group. With your solid background in bioinformatics you lead projects, work packages and activities on the design of algorithms and pipelines using high throughput phenotyping methods like imaging data. You translate these pipelines into solutions for our global breeding and research programs. In addition, you are responsible for setting up, developing and maintaining the IT solutions for our Trait Genetics team. Collaboration is key for this job position. You will work closely with breeders and scientists from different backgrounds (including bioinformatics, biology, genetics, phytopathology and trait discovery)  to develop tailored solutions that meet their needs. You will report to the Technology Lead Trait Genetics in the Breeding Technology Centre in De Lier.

Your tasks and responsibilities

·        Design, improve and maintain innovative software solutions for large data challenges within the global Dümmen Orange R&D portfolio.

·        Initiate and lead work packages and projects on developing pipelines for computer vision (preprocessing, segmentation, machine learning, deep learning, etc), which feed into genomic analyses and molecular breeding applications.

·        Deploy software tools and pipelines for routine breeding application through automation or for end-users through web-apps or Notebooks.

·        Perform scouting activities for novel tools and technologies.

·        Design, improve and maintain IT infrastructure and solutions for our Trait Genetics team.

·        Build and maintain an internal and external network of collaborations.

·        Provide functional and organizational leadership.

Your profile

·        PhD in a relevant field in computer science or biology with a strong computational focus (for example bioinformatics, data science) and preferably >2 years experience in industry.

·        You have a thorough understanding of the Linux operating system and are proficient in coding in Python and R (other programming languages are nice to have).

• Proven experience in advanced computer vision applications preferably using various deep learning approaches (for example for object detection and segmentation).
• Proven experience in analyzing large datasets and data visualization.

·        Experience with DevOps (Kubernetes, Docker), databases (SQL), workflow management (Airflow) and cloud computing (Azure) is desirable.

·        Experience with front-end development (Dash, Pyscript, Rshiny) is desirable.

• Prior knowledge of biology is not essential, but affinity with plant breeding and quantitative genetics is desirable.

·        Ability to work independently as well as in fast-paced multidisciplinary teams.

·        Inquisitive, innovative and critical mind-set and a creative and pro-active attitude.

·        Ability to communicate across disciplines and functions.

·        Excellent command of English and willingness to learn Dutch.