Company Description National Institute for Genomics and Advanced Biotechnology (NIGAB) is a national research institute dedicated to agricultural innovation across plants, animals, and microbes. The institute operates 28 state-of-the-art biotechnology laboratories, supported by glasshouses and containment facilities, to advance cutting-edge research and applications. Since 2007, NIGAB has earned national and international recognition for its contributions to agricultural biotechnology, focusing on increasing plant and animal productivity and developing value-added bioproducts to support national food security. Its work includes GMO development, marker-assisted selection, new breeding technologies, and genome editing using CRISPR platforms, alongside next-generation sequencing for gene discovery and varietal identification. NIGAB also serves as a reference laboratory for molecular diagnostics, GMO testing, and quality assurance of export commodities, and leads impactful tissue culture programs such as virus-free banana production.
Role Description The Owner at NIGAB is a full-time, on-site leadership role based in Islāmābād, Pakistan. The individual in this role provides strategic direction for the institute’s research agenda, oversees the development and implementation of biotechnology and genomics programs, and ensures alignment with national food security and sustainable development objectives. Day-to-day responsibilities include guiding senior scientific and administrative teams, approving major research initiatives and collaborations, managing resource allocation across laboratories and facilities, and maintaining high standards in regulatory compliance, bioethics, and biosafety. The role also involves representing NIGAB to government bodies, international partners, and funding agencies, building long-term partnerships, and fostering an inclusive, high-performance research culture. The Owner is expected to drive innovation, support talent development, and ensure that NIGAB’s research outputs are translated into practical solutions for agriculture and the broader economy.
Qualifications

• Strong background in agricultural biotechnology, genomics, or a related life science discipline, with deep understanding of plant, animal, and microbial research.
• Proven experience in leading research institutions, large scientific programs, or complex R&D organizations, preferably in agriculture or biotechnology.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute long-term strategies, including setting research priorities, managing budgets, and overseeing multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of emerging technologies such as genome editing, next-generation sequencing, marker-assisted selection, and advanced breeding techniques.
• Familiarity with national and international regulatory frameworks, biosafety standards, and ethical considerations related to GMOs and biotechnology.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, including experience working with government agencies, academia, industry partners, and international organizations.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and decision-making abilities, with a commitment to gender-neutral, inclusive, and non-discriminatory leadership practices.