Entomology Assistant

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 Entomology Assistant for the Insect and Herbicide Trait Discovery Team in Durham, North Carolina (Research Triangle Park site).
 

Role Purpose
Support insectary management activities to maintain and generate insect colonies for Seeds trait research and development projects.

Accountabilities

• Conduct a series of tests and experiments to improve current processes and methods under supervision
• Provide support for insect colony maintenance including egg hatching, insect rearing, infestation, pupal collection, and mate insect strains
• Support insect artificial diet preparation
• Support general insect bioassay activities
• Collect notes across experiments by utilizing various data collection tools, analysing result based on defined criteria, and write reports on progress
• Performing all tasks in a manner compliant with and in support of all HSE safety and stewardship guidelines related company policies and practices
• Effectively communicating regularly with peers and supervisors regarding the status of projects and work activities
• Contribute to a congenial group environment, fostering scientific rigor, safety, and inclusion

• Associates Degree with 2+ years or B.S. degree with 0-2 years of experience in an agricultural/biology related discipline and/or equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates with relevant insect rearing experience are preferred.
• Knowledge surrounding the practices and procedures that impact insect rearing precision and accuracy.
• Understanding of basic genetic principles.
• Understanding of the basic elements of insect bioassays.
• Ability to complete tasks following the guidelines under supervision
• Ability to learn, use and support proprietary IT systems.
• Ability to learn and adhere to standard operating procedures with regulated materials

Preferred Requirements

• A basic understanding of entomology and genetics is desirable.
• Ability to use MS Office, especially Word, Excel, Power Point and other standard office software.
• Knowledge and/or experience around insect rearing equipment/process is desirable.
• Knowledge of plant care practices is desirable

• 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

Work Level:  2A/3B

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.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
(http://www.dol.gov/whd/regs/compliance/posters/fmla.htm)
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC)
(http://webapps.dol.gov/elaws/firststep/poster_direct.htm)
Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)
(http://www.dol.gov/whd/regs/compliance/posters/eppa.htm)

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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.