Researcher

FGV Holdings Berhad is Malaysia’s leading global agri-business and the world’s largest producer of Crude Palm Oil (CPO). FGV’s operations stretch across more than 10 countries in Asia, the Middle East, North America and Europe, and are focused on three main business sectors namely Plantation Sector, Logistics & Support Business (LSB) Sector and Sugar Sector. FGV is the world’s third biggest oil palm plantation operator, has the world’s largest bulking and storage facilities for vegetable oil and is Malaysia’s top refined sugar producer.

In line with our business expansion, we would like to invite qualified and candidates to fill the following position at FGV R&D Sdn Bhd

Job Description

Position Summary

The Researcher is responsible for leading and supporting the Elaeis oleifera improvement program, focusing on hybrid and backcross breeding activities. The role involves developing superior breeding populations with improved agronomic performance, disease tolerance, oil quality, and adaptability through strategic breeding and genetic evaluation. The Researcher will manage breeding trials, conduct phenotypic and genetic analyses, and contribute to the long-term development of advanced oil palm planting materials aligned with the organization’s breeding objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Technical and Research Responsibilities

• Lead and implement Elaeis oleifera hybrid and backcross breeding programs.

• Design and execute breeding strategies, mating schemes, and population development for genetic improvement.

• Conduct phenotypic evaluation and characterization of breeding materials and progenies.

• Identify and select superior palms based on yield performance, vegetative traits, bunch quality, oil characteristics, and other targeted traits.

• Support the development of next-generation breeding populations and conservation activities for Elaeis oleifera germplasm.

• Analyze breeding and trial data for selection decisions and advancement of breeding materials.

• Monitor field trials and ensure breeding activities comply with established research protocols and standards.

• Collaborate with laboratory, agronomy, and field teams to support integrated research activities.

2. Project and Operational Management

• Plan, coordinate, and monitor breeding and research activities according to project timelines and objectives.

• Prepare and manage research budgets, field requirements, and resource allocation.

• Coordinate with internal departments and external research collaborators to strengthen research outcomes and efficiency.

• Supervise and provide technical guidance to research assistants and field personnel.

• Maintain proper documentation and records for breeding populations, crossing activities, trial evaluations, and research progress.

3. Reporting and Scientific Contribution

• Prepare technical reports, breeding updates, and presentations for management review.

• Produce scientific publications, technical papers, and research documentation related to Elaeis oleifera improvement.

• Present research findings during internal meetings, technical discussions, and scientific conferences.

• Contribute to continuous improvement and innovation in oil palm breeding programs.

 

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, Biotechnology, Agriculture, or related disciplines.

• Knowledge in oil palm breeding, genetics, and plantation management.

• Experience in hybrid breeding, backcross breeding, or breeding trial management is an advantage.

• Ability to conduct field evaluation, data analysis, and interpretation of breeding results.

• Familiarity with statistical and genetic analysis tools is preferred.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary research environments.