Description
The Department of Citrus is seeking a single source provider for the development of new citrus varieties. The provider will be responsible for researching, evaluating, and prioritizing new citrus varieties for Florida's citrus industry, including those needed for consumer market expansion and disease and pest tolerance. The provider will also be responsible for negotiating on behalf of Florida's citrus industry to acquire rights to new citrus varieties and structuring agreements for the sublicensing of these varieties to Florida growers. The contract is expected to be for a period of one year, from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027.
Key aspects of the job include:
• Providing timely and affordable access to new varieties for Florida citrus growers
• Establishing accountability within goals and objectives directed toward the development, acquisition, and management of new citrus cultivars
• Scouring the earth for varieties with strong potential as breeding stock and commercial applications
• Establishing research priorities specific to Florida's new variety efforts and acquiring sufficient funds
• Negotiating on behalf of Florida's citrus industry to acquire rights to new citrus varieties
• Monitoring and structuring agreements to enhance the health, well-being, and future viability of Florida's citrus industry
• Continuously assessing the supply and demand balance for citrus sales worldwide to seek opportunities for Florida