Laboratory Manager

Sohni Dharti International is Pakistan's largest hybrid seed producing company with a rapidly growing international presence. We specialize in hybrid seeds of maize, oilseeds, fodder, and vegetables, integrating cutting-edge agricultural technologies with deep-rooted traditional practices. Our mission is to enhance agricultural sustainability and empower farmers through innovation and collaboration.

We are hiring a Laboratory Manager to oversee and lead the operations of our Biotechnology Lab, Seed Testing Lab, and Tissue Culture Lab at our Harappa research station. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring high standards of quality, research excellence, and regulatory compliance across all lab functions.

• Supervise and coordinate the operations of all three labs: Biotechnology, Seed Testing, and Tissue Culture
• Ensure timely execution of lab procedures related to seed health testing, genetic purity, seed vigor, tissue culturing, and molecular diagnostics
• Develop, implement, and enforce SOPs and quality standards across all lab units
• Oversee routine and advanced experiments in biotechnology, including DNA analysis, marker-assisted selection, and pathogen diagnostics
• Manage micropropagation protocols and operations in the Tissue Culture Lab
• Ensure accurate seed germination, purity, and health testing as per national and international seed standards (ISTA/ISO)
• Maintain equipment calibration, lab hygiene, and biosafety standards
• Train, manage, and evaluate lab technical staff
• Coordinate with the R&D and Production departments to ensure research objectives are met
• Ensure proper documentation, record-keeping, and data analysis for all lab activities
• Prepare and present reports to senior management and support regulatory audits

• Ph.D. in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Plant Breeding & Genetics, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience managing or working in a seed/plant-related laboratory setting
• Hands-on knowledge of DNA extraction, PCR, ELISA, tissue culture, and seed quality testing protocols
• Strong understanding of ISTA rules, biosafety regulations, and QA/QC standards in laboratory environments
• Experience in managing a multidisciplinary lab team.
• Excellent organizational, documentation, and communication skills.

• Prior experience in the seed industry or agriculture biotechnology sector
• Familiarity with PEQ stations, R&D trial support, and hybrid development programs
• Experience in the seed industry or agricultural research is a plus