Plant Health Scientist Nematologist

Bayer•Chesterfield, MO

37d

About The Position

We are seeking a highly experienced Plant Nematologist to join our Plant Breeding team within the Crop Science R&D organization. This senior-level role requires demonstrated industry experience and deep expertise in nematode biology and management. Beyond technical excellence, the successful candidate will guide scientific and technical strategy for nematode-related research, ensuring alignment with global Crop Science priorities. The role will also serve as a connector across regions, fostering collaboration with internal and external experts to accelerate innovation and impact worldwide. The primary responsibilities of this role, Plant Health Scientist Nematologist, are to: Design, develop, and execute nematode-focused Plant Health trials for germplasm improvement and trait characterization in controlled environments and fields; Work across crops on high-throughput phenotyping, analytical, and genomic projects to accelerate nematode resistance screening and discovery; Develop and apply nematode risk assessment methodologies to inform Breeding and broader Crop Science strategies and communicate implications for product deployment, such as race shifts; Communicate research outcomes through peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and internal reports to inform decision-making and strengthen scientific leadership; Lead strategic projects to implement Precision Breeding innovations for nematode resistance, collaborating with Breeding and commercial teams to optimize germplasm improvement and product advancement; Serve as a global connector for nematode expertise, building networks with internal teams and external experts, harmonizing best practices, and driving integrated strategies across geographies; Collaborate with universities and research institutions on pipeline screening, including managing material transfer agreements; Integrate nematode research findings into broader agricultural initiatives within Crop Science R&D globally; Demonstrate creativity in problem-solving, applying advanced analytics and technologies to address complex nematode-related challenges; Support health, safety, compliance, and business conduct standards of the company.

Requirements

Master’s degree
Proven expertise in nematode biology, epidemiology, and integrated management strategies
Demonstrated experience developing and executing nematode screening protocols in controlled environments and fields
Strong background in data analytics and applied statistics for plant health and nematode data
Experience leading technical teams and collaborating across diverse functions
Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
Ability to work in dynamic, cross-functional teams focused on delivering innovative solutions and operational efficiencies
Experience with high-throughput phenotyping and advanced breeding methodologies
Familiarity with global regulatory and compliance requirements for nematode research
Demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Nematology, or related field with a minimum of 5 years of industry experience, or Master’s degree with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and execute nematode-focused Plant Health trials for germplasm improvement and trait characterization in controlled environments and fields
Work across crops on high-throughput phenotyping, analytical, and genomic projects to accelerate nematode resistance screening and discovery
Develop and apply nematode risk assessment methodologies to inform Breeding and broader Crop Science strategies and communicate implications for product deployment, such as race shifts
Communicate research outcomes through peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and internal reports to inform decision-making and strengthen scientific leadership
Lead strategic projects to implement Precision Breeding innovations for nematode resistance, collaborating with Breeding and commercial teams to optimize germplasm improvement and product advancement
Serve as a global connector for nematode expertise, building networks with internal teams and external experts, harmonizing best practices, and driving integrated strategies across geographies
Collaborate with universities and research institutions on pipeline screening, including managing material transfer agreements
Integrate nematode research findings into broader agricultural initiatives within Crop Science R&D globally
Demonstrate creativity in problem-solving, applying advanced analytics and technologies to address complex nematode-related challenges
Support health, safety, compliance, and business conduct standards of the company