Job Summary
The R&D Manager is responsible for leading the Company's Research & Development function by driving innovation in **seaweed-based bio-fertilizers, bio-stimulants, specialty plant nutrition products, and sustainable agricultural solutions**. The role oversees new product development, formulation optimization, laboratory research, field validation, regulatory compliance, technology transfer, and commercialization while ensuring alignment with the Company's strategic business objectives.
Key Responsibilities
1. Research & Product Development
* Lead the development of innovative **seaweed-based bio-fertilizers, bio-stimulants, plant growth promoters, and specialty agricultural inputs**.
* Develop and optimize new formulations to improve crop productivity, nutrient uptake, soil health, and plant stress tolerance.
* Enhance existing products by improving efficacy, shelf life, stability, and manufacturing efficiency.
* Evaluate new raw materials, seaweed species, natural extracts, and bioactive ingredients for product development.
* Monitor industry trends, scientific advancements, and emerging technologies to identify new business opportunities.
2. Seaweed Extraction & Formulation Development
* Develop and standardize seaweed extraction processes for maximum recovery of bioactive compounds.
* Design liquid, soluble, granular, and concentrated formulations suitable for different crops and agricultural applications.
* Optimize formulation parameters to improve product stability, compatibility, and field performance.
* Establish technical specifications and formulation standards for commercial production.
3. Laboratory Management
* Manage laboratory operations, research facilities, equipment, and technical resources.
* Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
* Ensure laboratory safety, calibration of equipment, and compliance with quality systems.
* Supervise laboratory personnel and maintain research documentation.
4. Product Validation & Field Trials
* Design and execute laboratory, greenhouse, and multi-location field trials.
* Evaluate product performance under different climatic and soil conditions.
* Analyse trial data and recommend formulation improvements.
* Collaborate with agricultural universities, research institutions, consultants, and progressive farmers for validation studies.
5. Production Support & Technology Transfer
* Coordinate technology transfer from laboratory to commercial production.
* Support Production in process optimization, troubleshooting, and product standardization.
* Ensure consistency in manufacturing processes and product quality.
* Recommend improvements to enhance operational efficiency and reduce production costs.
6. Regulatory & Quality Compliance
* Ensure compliance with the **Fertilizer (Control) Order (FCO)**, applicable agricultural regulations, and statutory requirements.
* Prepare technical documentation required for product registration and regulatory approvals.
* Work closely with the Quality Assurance team to establish product specifications and quality standards.
* Support internal, customer, and regulatory audits.
7. Project Management
* Plan, execute, and monitor multiple R&D projects simultaneously.
* Define project objectives, milestones, budgets, and timelines.
* Monitor project progress and ensure timely completion within approved budgets.
* Prepare project reports and present updates to senior management.
8. Team Leadership
* Lead, mentor, and develop the R&D team.
* Establish performance objectives and monitor team productivity.
* Promote a culture of innovation, collaboration, continuous improvement, and scientific excellence.
* Identify training and development needs of team members.
9. Cross-Functional Collaboration
* Collaborate with Production, Quality Assurance, Procurement, Supply Chain, Sales, Marketing, and Finance teams.
* Provide technical guidance for product positioning, customer demonstrations, and technical training.
* Support Procurement in evaluating new suppliers and raw materials.
* Assist Sales and Marketing with technical presentations, product literature, and customer support.
10. Documentation & Reporting
* Maintain research records, laboratory notebooks, validation reports, and product documentation.
* Prepare technical reports, management presentations, and R&D performance dashboards.
* Ensure confidentiality of proprietary formulations, research findings, and intellectual property.
Educational Qualification
**Essential**
* M.Sc. / M.Tech. / Ph.D. in:
* Biotechnology * Agriculture
* Microbiology * Soil Science
* Agricultural Microbiology * Biochemistry
* Marine Biotechnology * Life Sciences
* Chemical Engineering or related discipline
**Preferred Certifications**
* Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) * Project Management
* ISO 9001 / ISO 17025 * Regulatory Affairs
* Product Development
Experience
* Above 10 years of experience in Research & Development within the **Bio-Fertilizer, Seaweed Extract, Agricultural Bio stimulant, Specialty Fertilizer, or Agri-Input industry**.
* Minimum *3–5 years* in a managerial or team leadership role.
* Proven experience in product formulation, process development, field validation, regulatory compliance, and commercialization.
Pay: ₹40,000.00 - ₹50,000.00 per month
Work Location: In person
