Plant Scientist

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 RTP group is currently seeking a Plant Scientist, to be located in Durham, North Carolina.

Role Purpose

• Work with various projects, and functional groups such as transformation, plant analyses, growth facilities on T0 pipelines for both maize and soybean (planning and execution).
• T0 processes including database and inventory management, sampling support, as well as data acquisition, storing and reporting (SPIRIT, GENIE, SSP, Bench ling, etc.)
• Key contact for Crop Lab T1 seed production and delivery.
• Conduct T+ efficacy testing, collect data, and report on results
• Has developed breadth and/or depth of skills in greenhouse processes, procedures and systems.
• Acts as the technical expert in greenhouse; provides subject matter guidance to other team members.
• Design, execute and coordinate experiments in greenhouses, growth chambers, and laboratories
• Collect data and load data into databases; interpret data and present results to projects and stake holders for data-driven decisions.
• Work 40 hours per week during weekdays and weekend.
• Perform all activities in accordance with Syngenta Health, Safety, and Environmental Policy.

Accountabilities

• Coordinate T0 pipeline activities with cross-functional teams, including transformation, greenhouse, plant analysis and project teams, to maintain a highly efficient pipeline with the timely delivery of plant materials.
• Manage various databases particularly for T0 maize and soybean pipelines, in a timely manner to support data-driven pipeline activities.
• Perform activities including planting, watering, tissue sampling, pollination, harvesting, seed processing, and seed inventory management; scout and apply pesticides and biologicals to control diseases and pests.
• Develop new procedures/standards subjects; design, test and implement innovative ideas and concepts to optimize plant growth and development.
• Provides appropriate documentation for, ensuring the capture of intellectual property.
• Able and willing to work during weekends and holidays.

• Degree in plant biology, crop sciences or closely related discipline from an accredited university; Minimum entry qualification of Bachelor’s degree with 10+ years of experience, M.Sc. degree with 6+ years of experience, and Ph.D. degree with 2+ years of experience.
• Experience in major field crops such as corn and soybean.
• Prior experience working with greenhouse and biotechnology.
• Proficiency in use and management of various databases.
• Experience of supervising / coaching less experienced staff.
• Good planning, organizing, and analytical skills.
• Excellent record keeping skills and demonstrated attention to detail.
• Demonstrated excellence as a team player across multiple teams.
• Excellent knowledge of plant biology, plant physiology and agronomy for field crops, particularly in maize and soybean.
• Strong initiative and results orientation, with positive and proactive work ethics.
• Excellent analytical, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Embrace Syngenta quality management and stewardship practices

Preferred Requirements

• Understanding of project timelines and deliverables.
• Understanding of genetics and biotechnologies.
• Knowledge of greenhouse equipment and operations.
• Ability to identify plant diseases and pests.

• 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

Work Level: 3A

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 28,000 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. Join us and help shape the future of agriculture.