Production Research Associate

About the Role

Bayer is looking for a Production Research Associate to contribute to the advancement of production research through well-managed field trial work and strong support for research programs. The role reports to the SSA Research and Testing Mission Coordinator and focuses on producing reliable data and practical insights that help improve seed production systems.

The position supports regional and global proof-of-concept initiatives, helps strengthen operational performance, and contributes to solutions that improve seed production yield, quality, and consistency. It also involves working closely with internal teams and using data analysis to support decisions and research recommendations across the seed production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, set up, run, monitor, and complete production research field trials across multiple locations in Zambia in line with approved methods, protocols, and quality requirements.
• Assist in delivering regional and global proof-of-concept projects through careful trial design, disciplined implementation, and alignment with production research goals.
• Identify ways to improve processes, remove inefficiencies, and strengthen the effectiveness of the testing system by reviewing trial results and performance feedback.
• Support the use of new technologies across the genetic, trait, and technology pipeline to improve research delivery and seed production capability.
• Work with global teams and internal stakeholders to exchange insights, incorporate feedback, and assess the practical value and strategic relevance of trials and research activities.
• Use data analysis tools and methods to track, review, and interpret field trial outcomes and turn the findings into actionable recommendations.
• Share progress updates, findings, and risks with internal stakeholders in a clear and timely way, and present trial and proof-of-concept results in concise formats that support decision-making.
• Help build site capability by training and supporting the growth of talent resources, including interns and contract staff.

Health, Safety and Environment

• Support HSE activities in line with ISO 45001 and Bayer safety standards, with attention to legal compliance and the identification of safety risks using the HIRA approach.
• Follow all applicable laws, Bayer safety policies, and operational procedures.
• Promote Bayer’s safety culture and established best practices.
• Take part in risk assessments and job safety analyses, and record safety observations and near misses.
• Participate in 5-Why problem solving to identify corrective and preventive actions.

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Science degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience, or a Master of Science degree with at least 2 years of relevant experience, in agricultural research, plant physiology, plant breeding, or a related agricultural discipline.
• Practical experience designing and carrying out field and laboratory trial programs.
• A record of introducing new ideas and using modern technologies to improve research execution and outcomes.
• Knowledge of seed production operations is an advantage.
• Experience working in team-based settings and the ability to influence and collaborate within matrix organizations and varied stakeholder groups.
• Strong focus on results and the ability to drive outcomes across cross-functional teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for working with a wide range of audiences and situations.
• Willingness to work effectively in field-based conditions.
• Flexibility to travel up to 40% of the time for operational and research needs.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality work and meeting performance targets.
• Strong data analysis and interpretation skills, with the ability to convert findings into useful recommendations, are preferred.
• Basic knowledge of seed production, pest and disease identification, and control practices is an advantage.
• Exposure to Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing methods is beneficial for continuous improvement work.

Additional Information

Application period: 17 June to 1 July 2026

Reference code: 873927

Division: Crop Science

Location: Zambia, Lusaka

Functional area: R&D other jobs

Position grade: E13

Employment type: Regular

Work time: Standard

Reasonable accommodations may be available for persons with disabilities during the application or interview process. Requests can be directed to [email protected].

Bayer Zambia Ltd, Reg. No. 80055, Plot 10103, Mumbwa Road, P.O. Box 37131, Lusaka. Recruitment contact email: [email protected].

Bayer states that it welcomes applications from all people and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, age, physical characteristics, social origin, disability, union membership, religion, family status, or pregnancy.