Reference: 18041459

Job function: R&D
Employment type: Permanent
Contract type: full-time

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.

Role purpose :

• Reporting to the principal scientist in the Trait Development Vegetables organization, you develop the disease and pest resistance R&D strategy for the Cucurbitaceae crop.
• You will serve as project lead in team servicing Watermelon and some others Cucurbitaceae breeding targets, supplying your expertise for project success.

The position is to be based in Woodland, California (May consider Durham/Research Triangle Park, NC location)

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.
• You report to your management on the progress of your activities and alert your supervisor to any problems encountered.

Requirements

Critical knowledge

• PhD or Master Degree with 5 to 10 years’ experience, specialized in plant pathogen interaction; expert knowledge in plant resistance to biotic stresses.
• Advanced knowledge in genetics, statistics, plant or crop physiology, and molecular marker development.
• Knowledge of abiotic stresses
• English fluent (verbal/written)
• Project portfolio management & planning.
• Ability to manage progress through others rather than direct management
• Inclusive and collaborative, you are involved in multi-cultural, multi-regional environment.

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

To apply

Please click HERE to learn more and to apply online.

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.