Cell Biology Specialist

We are seeking a passionate and skilled professional to drive and execute our embryo rescue program in fruit crop trait introgression. In this role, you will drive innovation in our genetic improvement techniques, directly contributing to the development of enhanced crop varieties.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and execute the embryo rescue component of our Trait Introgression (TI) platform for fruit crops.
• Optimize TI processes in collaboration with Operations Lead, trait introgression scientists, breeding teams, and TI Operation Specialists.
• Manage resource planning and efficient execution of embryo rescue activities.
• Coordinate daily with Farm Operations team (crop caretakers, pollinators, cleaning specialists) to ensure smooth workflow.
• Maintain oversight of embryo rescue activities at the Cell Biology Lab.
• Perform critical tasks including fruit harvesting, embryo rescue, selection backup, plant sampling, and delivery to TI facilities.
• Prepare media for embryo rescue activities and functionally lead technicians in the Cell Biology Lab.
• Analyze regeneration data to continuously improve the embryo rescue process.
• Ensure timely delivery of plants for the next breeding cycle.
• Proactively communicate progress, challenges, and process improvements.
• Manage data registration and administration using relevant IT tools.

Syngenta Seeds is one of the world’s largest developers and producers of seed for farmers, commercial growers, retailers and small seed companies. Syngenta seeds improve the quality and yields of crops. High-quality seeds ensure better and more productive crops, which is why farmers invest in them. Advanced seeds help mitigate risks such as disease and drought and allow farmers to grow food using less land, less water and fewer inputs.

Syngenta Seeds brings farmers more vigorous, stronger, resistant plants, including innovative hybrid varieties and biotech crops that can thrive even in challenging growing conditions.

Syngenta Seeds is headquartered in the United States.

• Education: BS degree in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, Plant Sciences, or related field.
• Experience: Minimum 3 years in crop/germplasm management or TI in an R&D setting, preferably in commercial breeding programs.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proven expertise in embryo rescue techniques and in vitro culture.
  • Strong understanding of plant physiology and genetic improvement.
  • Experience in managing operational processes and resources.
  • Data and digital fluency for effective TI process management.
• Soft Skills:
  • Excellent communication skills in English & Spanish (additional languages are a plus).
  • Strong leadership capabilities and ability to work in multicultural teams.
  • Results-oriented with a commitment to continuous improvement.
  • Agility and flexibility in meeting critical timelines.
  • High ethical standards and transparent work style.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER

• A culture that promotes work/life balance, celebrates diversity and offers numerous events throughout the year.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• A role that contributes to valuable and impactful work in a stimulating and international environment.
• Learning culture and a wide range of development options, including access to learning platforms (Degreed and LinkedIn Learning)

Equal Opportunity

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.