Syngenta is a global leader in agriculture; rooted in science and dedicated to bringing plant potential to life. Each of our 30,000 employees in more than 90 countries work together to solve one of humanity’s most pressing challenges: growing more food with fewer resources. A diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace environment are enablers of our ambition to be the most collaborative and trusted team in agriculture. Our employees reflect the diversity of our customers, the markets where we operate and the communities which we serve. No matter what your position, you will have a vital role in safely feeding the world and taking care of our planet. Join us and help shape the future of agriculture.

Through leading innovations, we help farmers around the world meet the challenge of feeding a growing population and taking care of our planet. We are currently seeking an Herbicide Traits Senior Scientist for our Insect & Herbicide Trait Discovery team in Durham, NC at our Research Triangle Park Innovation Center.

Role Purpose

In this role the incumbent will Lead Herbicide Tolerance Trait research and development activities including trait optimization and evaluation in controlled growth environment and field. Develop and apply novel genetic and plant phenotyping methods to support research and development projects. The selected individual will provide scientific leadership and drive innovation and execution within and across diverse functions, projects and/or networks in the areas plant-herbicide interactions, genetics, development and physiology.

Accountabilities

• Provide scientific and technical leadership to cross-functional teams comprised of members from Seeds Research, Seeds Development, Seeds Commercial, and Crop Protection Research
• Lead multiple multi-disciplinary projects by working with cross functional teams
• Independently develop innovative herbicide trait phenotyping methods at the molecular, biochemical, tissue, plant and population level for corn, soy, and/or other key crops
• Develop and implement innovative technologies to enhance efficiency and productivity
• Develop and implement proxy and surrogate assays for key herbicide traits
• Seek out, identify, communicate and encourage examples of best practice from internal and external sources of information

Critical success factors & key challenges

• Disciplined and rigorous approach to hypothesis-driven research, process improvement and change management
• Innovative mind-set combined with technical expertise
• Sound analytical and problem solving / solid IT skills
• Adhere to health, safety and environment standards
• Effective communication skills in English
• Ability for knowledge transfer to key stakeholders

Knowledge, experience & capabilities

Critical knowledge

• Ph.D. in weed science, plant genetics, physiology, or related field, and 4+ years professional experience in the areas of herbicide traits
• Excellent knowledge leveraging plant biology/physiology and genetics, particularly in corn and/or soy
• Experience in developing quantitative, trainable and scalable protocols by applying deep knowledge of genetics, experimental design, statistical analysis and fit-for-purpose plant phenotyping approaches
• GM Herbicide Trait discovery and development
• Strong technical leadership with a team-oriented natural way of working
• Fluency in English language both written and orally

Critical experience

• 8+ years of experience conducting experiments in wet lab, controlled growth and/or field environments
• 6+ years of experience applying state-of-the-art omics and/or genetics technologies to identify genes affecting Biotech traits.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems through innovative approaches
• Advanced expertise of principles and activities in genetic experimental setup
• Experience in cross functional and multi-cultural project team environment

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities

• Ability to function at a high level without supervision
• Ability to handle both technical project leadership as well as laboratory / greenhouse / field scientific activities
• Team-Oriented – Team Player
• Highly motivated and results oriented

Critical leadership capabilities

• Collaboration: Fosters a sense of collaboration and works effectively with others across the organization to achieve goals.
• Judgement: Makes timely and sound decisions on everyday issues and problems by applying accurate logic, appropriate knowledge, expertise, and common sense.
• Creativity and Innovation: Generates and champions new ideas, approaches, and initiatives and creates an environment that nurtures and supports innovation.
• Execution & results orientation: Demonstrates initiative and a strong commitment to achieving meaningful results, meeting or exceeding goals, and acting on opportunities to create value.
• Self Awareness: Demonstrates understanding of personal strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and limits.

• All applicants must be eligible to work in the US
• Travel – 5-10% (Domestic & International)
• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in challenging environments with exposure to heat, sunlight, pollen and dust

What We Offer:

• Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts the same day you do
• 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution
• Open Vacation Policy with a minimum of 15 days of vacation and up to 30 days with manager approval, 9 Paid Holidays
• Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts among others
• A culture that promotes work/life balance, celebrates diversity, and offers numerous family-oriented events throughout the year

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC)

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Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)

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