Research Scientist- Maize Transformation

About Us

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 Research Scientist for the Transformation team in Durham, North Carolina. 

Role purpose

• The role of this job is to contribute to the effective operation of maize transformation pipeline to support trait research and product development goals
• Provide scientific expertise and support transgenic event generation pipeline efforts required to deliver business objectives defined by a research program, function, or supervisor 
• Responsible for process improvement and new capability development including maize genetic transformation and precision genome engineering  
• Lead to design and execute complex experiments to generate scientific/technical data alone or working with scientists in group 
• Actively contribute to process improvement and integration of new technologies 
• Provide subject matter guidance to other team members and uses existing procedures to solve process problems or bottlenecks 
• Professionally interpret data and present results to enable decision-making and deliver business goals in a timely fashion.
• Is results-oriented and able to work in a team environment
• Mentor and train junior scientists to achieve technical excellence

Accountabilities 

• Follow existing processes, procedures and systems to independently design and execute complex experiments 
• Deliver results in fast changing business environments
• Proactively initiate and implement improvements to established protocols or systems to improve function capability and efficiency in consultation with supervisor
• Provide scientific expertise and leadership required to design and deliver studies defined by project or supervisor.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and enter data into databases strictly following Syngenta policy and guideline
• Be responsible for initiating, evaluating, and implementing changes to established protocols or systems
• Perform all activities in accordance with all applicable Syngenta Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies

Critical knowledge

• Expert knowledge in plant tissue culture, plant genetic transformation and transgene expression, preferably in field crop genetic transformation
• Excellent knowledge in plant development, botany, plant physiology, genetics, genomics, breeding, biotechnology and microbiology
• Excellent knowledge in molecular biology, gene expression and genome engineering
• Excellent knowledge in Agrobacterium-mediated transformation and/or plant -microbial interactions

Critical experience

• Minimal qualifications of Master’s degree with 3+ years of experience or Ph.D. degree with 1 -3 years of postdoc experience 
• 4+ years of experience in plant tissue culture and plant transformation with strong preference for candidates with field crop transformation experience
• Demonstrated expertise in developing and improving plant transformation methods and protocols.
• Strong track record of delivering research and innovation through journal publications or patent applications
• Demonstrated ability to deliver scientific results in a cross functional environment

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities

• Excellent analytical and communication skills in interpreting and presenting study results
• Proficiency in use of standard Microsoft Office software (e.g., Excel and PowerPoint); 
• Demonstrated problem-solving ability in plant transformation researches
• Demonstrated experience in working effectively as a member of a dynamic technical team
• Flexibility in handling new job assignments and achieving results in a rapidly changing work environment
• Ability to drive change, work independently, and set priorities
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills; 
• Independent design and implementation of experimental studies

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
• 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
   

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.

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Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC)
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Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)
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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. 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.