Research Scientist - Greenhouse

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 a Scientist I for the Greenhouse team in Durham, North Carolina. (RTP Innovation Center) Role purpose

• Design, execute and coordinate experiments in greenhouses, growth chambers, and laboratories
• 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
• Collect data and load data into databases; interpret data and present results in order to make contributions to decisions in the work program content, procedures or problem resolution
• Uses existing procedures to solve standard problems; analyses, information and standard practices to make judgments
• Work 40 hours per week during weekdays and weekend (within team rotations)
• Perform all activities in accordance with Syngenta Health, Safety, and Environmental Policy

Accountabilities

• Perform activities including planting, watering, tissue sampling, pollination, harvesting, seed processing, seed inventory management, and shipments; Scout and apply pesticides and biologicals to control diseases and pests
• Apply depth and/or breadth of knowledge and experience to recognize greenhouse problems and find solutions
• Collect data and work with databases; interpret and present the data to projects and stake holders; Clear communication of work and results with supervisor and team
• 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
• May also lead small multi-disciplinary projects
• Willing to work during weekends and holidays

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Understanding of project timelines and deliverables
• Functioning as a member of a multiple function team
• Embrace Syngenta quality management and stewardship practices

Critical knowledge

• Excellent knowledge of plant biology, plant physiology and agronomy
• Understanding of genetics and biotechnologies
• Knowledge of greenhouse equipment and operations
• Ability to identify plant diseases and pests

Critical experience

• Degree in plant biology, crop sciences or closely related discipline from an accredited university; Prior experience working with greenhouse and biotechnology. Minimum entry qualification of Bachelor’s degree with 6+ years of experience, and PhD/MS degree with3 years of experience 
• Experience working with a major field crop such as corn and soybean
• Proficiency in use of standard Microsoft office software; Experience in using databases
• Experience of supervising / coaching less experienced staff

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities

• Good planning and organizing skills
• Demonstrated excellence as a team player
• Ability to work with a variety of crops
• Demonstrated ability and motivation to work in unsupervised situations
• Computer skills such as working with databases, environmental controls, and Microsoft Office
• Excellent record keeping skills and demonstrated attention to detail
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to perform all physical aspects required in greenhouse activities
• Commitment and adherence to specific stewardship and quality management practices is essential

Additional information

• Eligible to work in the US
• Occasional domestic and international travels to field sites, project meetings, and scientific conferences

• 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

WL3A
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.