Trait Development Lead - Cucurbitaceae

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 Trait Development Lead for the in the Trait Development Vegetables organization team in Woodland, California.

Role purpose

This position will develop the disease and pest resistance R&D strategy for the Cucurbitaceae crop such as Squash, Melon, Cucumber and other breeding targets.

The position will serve as project lead or member of a project team servicing Cucurbitaceae breeding targets, supplying his/her expertise for project success. She/he will provide technical leadership to the entire R&D community on their selected area of expertise. The role is interacting closely across functions and different expertise from quantitative breeding to data analyst via bioinformatic and others required areas of excellence.

This position will also support trait phenotyping capabilities to guide assays to assess resistance to pests and diseases for Cucurbitaceae crops which could be performed in open field, greenhouse or growth rooms. It includes coordination, support and guidance with laboratories to produce or manipulate pests and pathogens adhering strictly to relevant regulations.

International Business trips are to be expected (frequency: 20%).

Accountabilities

You provide technical leadership to the entire R&D community on their selected area of expertise.

The role involves close interaction across functions and different expertise, from quantitative breeding to data analyst via bio-informatic and others required areas of excellence.

This position also leads trait phenotyping capabilities to provide assays to assess resistance to pests and diseases for Cucurbitaceae crops which could be performed in open field, greenhouse or growth rooms. It includes coordination, support and guidance with laboratories to produce or manipulate pests and pathogens adhering strictly to relevant quarantine or GMO regulations.

Responsibilities include strategy development, the project and portfolio management, the identification and the characterization of new diseases resistance traits, the development and the application of tools for genetic studies and product development, the characterization of pests and pathogens populations and the capture of intellectual property.

You work in compliance with quarantine pests and diseases rules and guidelines to handle and manipulate plants and seeds which have been exposed to these pests and diseases.

Requirements

Critical knowledge

• PhD Required OR Master’s Degree with 5 to 10 years’ experience, specialized in plant pathogen interaction; expert knowledge in plant resistance to biotic stresses.
• Demonstrated understanding of plant breeding
• Knowledge of abiotic stresses
• Advanced knowledge in genetics, statistics, plant or crop physiology, and molecular marker development.
• English fluent (verbal/written)
• Inclusive and collaborative, you are involved in multi-cultural, multi-regional environment.

Critical experience

• 5 - 10  years of resistance breeding within academic or commercial sector

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities

• Ability to communicate effectively (Verbal and Written) in English
• Project/portfolio management
• Strategic project planning
• Bi-Lingual (French, English, Spanish)
• Ability to manage progress through others rather than direct management
• Multi-cultural, multi-regional understanding and appreciation
• Purposeful coaching/mentoring

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
• Competitive Vacation Policy Pro-rated up to 15 days first year, with 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
• Salary $91200 – 114000 USD

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. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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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.