Plant Scientist

About Us
At Syngenta, we believe every employee has a role to play in safely feeding the world and taking care of our planet. To support that challenge, Greenhouse Seed Production Team is currently seeking a Plant Scientist, to be located in Durham, North Carolina. 

Role Purpose

• Conduct biology and trait research activities in greenhouses, growth chambers, and laboratories
• Support greenhouse seed production activities for corn and soybean 
• Seek opportunities to optimize operational efficiency associated with plant care and seed production
• Deliver project milestones using science based approaches
• Work 40 hours per week including weekend and holidays
• Perform all activities in accordance with Syngenta Health, Safety, and Environmental Policy  

Accountabilities

• Perform activities including planting, watering, tissue sampling, pollination, harvesting, discarding, and seed processing
• Scout and apply pesticides and biologicals to control diseases and pests
• Initiate and monitor environmental controls in growth rooms 
• Make observations and record data in databases and other record keeping tools
• Work with third party collaborators. Daily work and travel to local third-party greenhouse facilities may be required
• Actively participate in cooperative team tasks and initiatives
• Stay current on developments in greenhouse technology through literature, seminars, and workshops
• Collaborate with various projects to ensure high-quality biomaterial and data deliveries on time
• Engage with facility support teams to optimize project-based plant growth conditions
• Willing to work on a rotational basis as a weekend team member 

Requirements

• Minimum of a BS degree in in agricultural sciences, plant biology, or a closely related field
• Prior experience working with GM/GE biomaterials and biotechnology
• Experience working with corn and/or soybean
• Proficiency in use of standard Microsoft Office software
• Excellent record keeping skills and demonstrated attention to detail
• Commitment and adherence to regulatory compliance, stewardship, quality management practices is essential
• Good interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills 
• Demonstrated excellence as a team player
• Willing and able to work on a rotational basis as a weekend team member 
• Must be able to work as needed on Holidays
• Demonstrated ability and motivation to work in unsupervised situations
• Ability to perform all physical aspects required in greenhouse activities
• Willing to obtain a NCDA pesticide license within 3-6 months of being hired
• Function within a multiple team organization and contribute to a positive workforce

Preferred Requirements

• Prior experience working with greenhouse and GMO biomaterials
• Prior experience working with major field crops like corn and soybean
• Understanding of project timelines and deliverables

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 
• Paid Vacation, 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.

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 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.