Seeds Production Research Intern

We invite you to help us shape the future of agriculture. 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, the Seeds Production Research team is currently seeking a Seeds Production Research Intern in Slater, IA. As an intern, you will be responsible for designing experiments, field and lab preparation, routine maintenance, and data analysis. You will be provided the opportunity of being exposed to research activities, allowing you to apply academic background and ultimately be exposed to both Production & Supply and Research & Development at Syngenta. 

As an intern at Syngenta, you have the opportunity to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry, and work on real projects finding real solutions. Work with us and you’ll get:  

• Competitive wages  (hourly salary range of $18 - $30 per hour) 
• Ongoing career development resources   
• The opportunity to work on meaningful, innovative projects that solve problems 
• A culture that celebrates diversity & inclusion, promotes professional development, and offers flexible work options to meet both your work and personal needs 

Estimated Duration: May 2024-August 2024

Possible to extend through December as co-op opportunity 

You will: 

• Provide the intern the opportunity of being exposed to the Seed Parent Characterization activities, allowing him/her to apply academic background and assist in the department activities from trial design, preparation, maintenance, harvesting, lab tasks, and data analysis 
• Develop a good understanding about new corn hybrid development, and parent characterization activities, by taking a lead role for one of the Seed Parent Characterization’s locations 
• Strengthen new product advancements through the assessment of important traits for seeds production  
• Take the lead on the project management and execution according to the assigned project. Assure that field activities (planting, plot maintenance, and harvest) for research plots are executed. This includes routine site/farm maintenance activities such as planting plots, applying treatments, collecting observations and in-season data, and maintaining the plots throughout the growing season.  
• Support other Seed Parent Characterization, as well as agronomic trial activities  
• Develop and maintain two-way communication with project managers, Seed Production Research (SPR) Scientists, Agronomists and Parent Seed colleagues. Additionally, look for communicating with people from different areas, from breeding all the way to commercial seeds production, aiming to gain a good understanding of the whole chain 
• Assist with managing and developing part time workers 
• Analyze data and prepare a report and presentation for the assigned project 
• Make sure all activities are developed according to the Company safety procedures and recommendations, and promote environmentally sustainable solutions 

• A High School diploma or equivalent 
• Enrollment in a Bachelor’s Degree program in Agronomy, Biology, Ag Business, or another closely related field of study 
• A valid Driver's License 

What you might also contribute to the team: 

• Prefer a student with a Sophomore or Junior standing  
• May be required to lift up to 30 pounds 
• Communication-The ability to communicate information well (both written and spoken) is highly desired 
• Detail Oriented-All procedures and policies must be understood and followed 
• Autonomous-An independent individual who is self-motivating and needs little supervision 
• Confidence- Not afraid to ask bold questions and be curious 
• Eagerness to learn and grow in the role  
• Previous internship and/or co-op experience related to Agriculture is preferred but not required 
• Familiarity with working on a farm, working with crops, or working outdoors is preferred but not required 

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) 

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.