Agronomic Research Scientist

Syngenta Group•Waterloo, NE

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Syngenta Seeds Field Crops is a global agricultural technology company focused on supporting farmers through seeds, biotechnology, precision breeding, and digital platforms. The Agronomic Research Scientist will support Syngenta’s marketing and sales objectives by conducting agronomic research on corn and soybean varieties and developing value-added agronomic content that strengthens NK and Golden Harvest brand positioning as trusted agronomic advisors. The position is based in Waterloo, Nebraska, and supports sales and agronomy teams across Eastern Commercial Units. The role manages the full research lifecycle, including study design, trial preparation, field operations, data collection and analysis, and communication of findings. It also maintains research equipment and oversees part-time research personnel at multiple research sites.

Requirements

A Ph.D. and/or M.S. in Agronomy or a related field is strongly preferred; candidates with a B.S. in Agronomy and five or more years of experience conducting agronomy research trials and statistical data analysis will also be considered.
At least five years of experience in a commercial or R&D agronomy role, with a strong technical background and understanding of sales and commercial aspects.
Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to deliver key messages clearly and concisely.
Good personnel and facility management skills.
In-depth understanding of statistical principles and data analysis.
Knowledge of farming best practices, seed technologies, and crop protection.
Ability to plan, organize, and monitor performance to meet deadlines.
Ability to coach people to excel by giving clear, direct, and skillful feedback.
Ability to help teams understand how objectives align with company strategy and how they add value.

Responsibilities

Build and maintain collaborative relationships with sales and agronomy teams across Eastern Commercial Units to identify regional needs and deliver targeted agronomic solutions.
Lead the research lifecycle, from study design and prioritization through pre-planting preparations, including technology agreements, seed treatment, plot planning, and field mapping for corn and soybean variety trials.
Oversee field activities, including planting, plot maintenance, harvest operations, treatment applications, and data collection.
Supervise part-time research personnel across multiple research sites.
Conduct statistical analysis of yield and agronomic data.
Prepare technical reports and presentations and present research findings to internal teams, dealers, customers, and industry influencers.
Maintain research equipment through routine maintenance, seasonal preparation, and innovative equipment design to support accurate treatment applications and data collection.