Transformation Scientist - China

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 Transformation Scientist for the Pipeline Technology and Enablement, Transformation Group. The full-time position is in the Innovation Center, Beijing, China. Syngenta Biotechnology China (SBC), is one of company’s global Research and Development sites, mainly focusing on biotech research and product development for major crops. Located in Zhongguancun Life Science Park in Beijing, SBC officially started operations in 2008, and is now the home base for 200 highly qualified professionals. Working with top level scientists globally, we collaborate to deliver innovative solutions to farmers across the world. 

You will help meet the world’s most pressing needs by:

• Providing scientific expertise and driving transformation technology development efforts, required to deliver business objectives.

Accountabilities

• Contribute to the effective operation of transgenic event generation pipeline to support trait research and product development goals defined by a research program, function, or supervisor
• Lead process improvement, new capability development and IP capture efforts in plant genetic transformation and genome engineering 
• Develop fit-for-purpose transformation (stable and transient) systems for fast, cost-effective, and high throughput event generation and gene screening and validation
• Accurately maintain experimental records and perform all activities in compliance with Syngenta HSE, quality management, and ethics guidelines 
   

Requirements

• PhD in biological science such as molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, and biotechnology with experience in relevant plant biology field
• Experience in plant transformation, genome engineering, or gene function characterization with strong preference for candidates with field crop transformation experience
• Demonstrated expertise in developing and improving plant transformation methods and protocol Strong track record of delivering research and innovation through journal publications or patent applications
• Demonstrated ability to apply genetic and genomic knowledge to deliver scientific progresses and technical innovations in a cross functional environment
• Bilingual: Mandarin and English
• Domestic and occasional international travel required

Preferred Requirements

• Expert knowledge in plant tissue culture, plant genetic transformation, transgene expression, and genome engineering, preferably in field crop genetic modification
• Excellent knowledge in plant development, botany, plant physiology, genetics, genomics, breeding, biotechnology, and microbiology
• Excellent knowledge in Agrobacterium-mediated transformation and/or plant -microbial interactions
• Excellent analytical and communication skills in interpreting and presenting study results
• Experience in project management and people management

What We Offer:

• A platform with a combination of a booming agricultural industry in China domestic market and global resources and exposure, where you can fully develop your potential
• A culture that promotes Innovation and Entrepreneurial Spirit
• Competitive annual base salary (ABS) and short-term incentive (STI) plans
• Standard social benefits and housing fund package according to Chinese government policies, plus supplementary medical insurance 
• Minimum of 15 days annual leave, and up to 20 days, contingent upon the service years, and 12 days of paid sick leave per year
• Mobility assistance provided from overseas to China

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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Syngenta Seeds is one of the world’s largest developers and producers of seed for farmers, commercial growers, retailers and small seed companies. Syngenta seeds improve the quality and yields of crops. High-quality seeds ensure better and more productive crops, which is why farmers invest in them. Advanced seeds help mitigate risks such as disease and drought and allow farmers to grow food using less land, less water and fewer inputs. Syngenta Seeds brings farmers more vigorous, stronger, resistant plants, including innovative hybrid varieties and biotech crops that can thrive even in challenging growing conditions. Syngenta Seeds is headquartered in the United States.