Reproductive Biology 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, Reproductive Biology Team is currently seeking a Reproductive Biology Scientist, to be located in Durham, North Carolina. 

Role Purpose

The purpose of this Scientist II role is to carry out plant reproductive biology research as a member of an interdisciplinary team focused on new breeding technologies.

The successful applicant will be a self-motivated individual with excellent interpersonal skills that enjoys working in a dynamic, fast-paced, and collaborative team environment.

She or he will have a scientific background in molecular biology, developmental biology, and tissue culture. Hands-on experience with gene editing, and assay design or optimization are preferable.

The candidate must be a quick learner, flexible, and able to work on different assignments as needed. This includes quickly acquiring background knowledge by reading scientific literature or interacting with peers.

The applicant will have a demonstrated ability to design and carry out innovative experiments and studies in the fields of cell culture, developmental, and reproductive biology.

They will independently and effectively execute, interpret, report and present results from laboratory studies; maintain accurate experimental records according to company policies; and share results with team members and other scientists in a timely fashion. The work is expected to be 70% in the lab, 5% in the greenhouse and 25% on meetings and reporting. 

Accountabilities

• Work independently and under limited supervision to plan and carry out experiments. 
• Be responsible for initiating, evaluating, and implementing changes to established protocols as required by project needs.
• Deliver results in a fast-changing business environment.
• Communicate effectively and work collaboratively with multifunctional supporting groups and as part of teams.
• Compile and communicate regular reports on research progress.
• Contribute to inventions, publications, and new approaches to existing research activities.
   

Requirements

• Masters Degree in Biology, Plant Biology, Plant Genetics, Plant Biotechnology or related field with 3+ years relevant experience; or bachelors degree in a related field and 5+ years relevant experience.
• Knowledge of modern biology laboratory techniques in molecular biology and plant cell culture required
• 2-5 years of laboratory work experience including:
• Analytical and communication skills in interpreting and presenting study results including public speaking
• Proficiency in use of standard software and familiarity with databases (Geneious, genome browsers, RNA-seq and protein databases)
• Demonstrated problem-solving ability in the context of plant biotechnology research
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems through innovative approaches
• Flexibility in handling new job assignments and achieving results in a rapidly changing work environment
• Possesses a high level of organizational ability and is familiar with experimental data recording.
• Performs research activities and other tasks as necessary in a laboratory environment, observing proper safety procedures. Willing to be responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining laboratory spaces and equipment as needed.
• Wants to work on basic biology and applied biology research projects for the improvement of agriculture and/or for the pursuit of knowledge in basic biology.
• Learning agility, judgment, planning, execution/results orientation and establishing trust 
• Align objectives to the business priorities 
• Provides support for individuals and teams to achieve excellence
• Senses and adapts to the changing environment for successful delivery

Preferred Requirements

• Knowledge of available computational/analytical tools in molecular biology, genetics, development, and biotechnology preferred.
• Knowledge of crop species (maize, soy) and Arabidopsis development preferred
• Experience with confocal or other microscopy instrumentation, and/or plate-reader based fluorescent assays.
   

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.

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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About Syngenta
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.