Tree R&D Research Associate

Company: Terviva India Private Limited

Job Title:  Tree R&D Research Associate

Reports to: Tree R&D Manager, India

Location:  Ranchi, Coimbatore, or North East India

No. of positions required: 2

About us:  

Terviva is a fast-growing food and agriculture company, headquartered in Alameda, California, with operations in the USA (Florida, Hawaii), India, and Australia. Terviva partners with farmers and communities around the world to harvest and grow pongamia, a regenerative, permanent tree crop historically used in Asia for landscape plantings, agroforestry and reforestation. As an indigenous crop, pongamia provides shade, medicinal remedies, vegetable oil, soil amendments and other products.  Dubbed a “super tree,” pongamia requires minimal water input and naturally resists pests due to its innate bitter compounds. Terviva has planted proprietary varieties of pongamia trees on over 1,500 acres in Florida and Hawaii to validate agronomic performance and we are expanding operations in Australia and India. And after more than a decade of innovation, Terviva has discovered a way to remove pongamia's bitter compounds and transform pongamia beans into nutritious and sustainable food ingredients called Ponova®.  With a diverse product portfolio including food and fuel, farmers can supply multiple market segments as opportunities develop.   

Learn more at Terviva.com

OVERALL JOB PURPOSE

We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic R&D Research Associate to support our research efforts in plant genetics, quality, and reproductive biology. This is a hands-on role that involves assisting with field trials, management of seed & tree inventory, laboratory experiments, data collection, and general research support. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a passion for plant science. This position reports to the local Tree R&D Manager, and the role falls within Terviva's Trees and Impact Group, led by the Chief Commercialization Officer, who oversees and facilitates global activities with strong technical and commercial ties to Terviva's Florida-based Tree Operations.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Field Work: 
• Assist with the establishment, maintenance, and monitoring of field trials.
• Supervise scion collections and grafting process. 
• Implement irrigation, fertilization, and pest control practices as directed.
• Perform field measurements according to research protocols.
• Record data accurately and maintain detailed field notes.
• Manage seed & tree inventory. 
• Laboratory Work: 
• Collect and prepare leaf samples for analysis performed by third party vendors.
• Assist with laboratory experiments and data collection.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment.
• Data Management: 
• Enter data into spreadsheets and databases.
• Maintain accurate records of research activities and results.
• General Research Support: 
• Prepare research materials, equipment, and supplies.
• Assist with the maintenance of research facilities and equipment.
• Follow safety protocols and maintain a safe working environment.

PERSON SPECIFICATION 

Education & background:

• Education: Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Plant Science, Horticulture, Forestry, or a related field.
• Experience: 6+ years of experience in agricultural research or a related field.
• Skills: 
• Basic understanding of plant biology and growth.
• Ability to follow instructions and work independently.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data collection.
• Proficiency in using basic computer software (e.g., spreadsheets, databases).
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to guide third party service providers that conduct nursery or field activities.
• Willingness for extensive travel and work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Working at Terviva offers you:

• The opportunity to make an impact in a fast-growing mission-driven late stage start-up that believes in sustainability, equity and care for our environment and our communities.

• Competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience.
• Potential to earn annual bonus, stock options, commensurate with role and experience.

• Medical and life insurance benefits.

Next Steps:

To apply, please respond to the company position below by submitting an enclosed Job Application Form.

Please include your resume and a cover letter telling us about yourself, your experience and why you are well suited for this job with Terviva. 

Terviva is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based on race, creed, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status and sexual orientation or other applicable legally protected characteristics. Our leadership team is dedicated to this policy and all employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.