Research Investigator, Protein Biochemistry & Structural Biology

Corteva Agriscience • Indianapolis, IN

5d • Onsite

About The Position

Corteva Agriscience is seeking an innovative and collaborative scientist to join the Mode of Action & Bioanalytical Center of Expertise in Indianapolis, Indiana. This role will advance small molecule discovery and development (SMDD) for Crop Health in the R&D pipeline. The successful candidate will apply expertise in protein biochemistry, assay development, and structural characterization to generate critical insights that guide discovery and development decisions. This scientist will work across biology, chemistry, structural biology, and computational sciences to accelerate the delivery of next-generation crop health solutions.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Chemical Biology, or a related field with 2+ years; or M.S. with 5+ years; or B.S. with 7+ years of relevant experience.
• Expertise in protein purification and characterization
• Expertise in structural biology, including X-ray crystallography and/or single-particle cryo-EM.
• Demonstrated ability to independently drive scientific projects and solve complex technical challenges.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and data interpretation skills.
• Track record of scientific achievement through research, publications, patents, or impactful project contributions.

Nice To Haves

• Develop and execute biochemical and biophysical assays for target characterization, hit identification, and mode-of-action investigations.
• Expertise in integrating structural, computational, biochemical, and pharmacological data to assess target tractability and inform discovery decisions.
• Familiarity with structural biology methods and computational tools used in modern discovery research.

Responsibilities

• Design, produce and characterize challenging proteins to support target validation, target engagement, and structural biology studies.
• Leverage structure-based design, target engagement approaches, and cell-based pharmacology assays to advance SMDD.
• Apply biochemical, structural, and computational insights to evaluate targets, establish druggability hypotheses, and guide discovery strategies.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, translating findings into actionable recommendations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional discovery teams to advance screening, lead generation and optimization, and mode-of-action projects.
• Communicate scientific results, strategies, and key decisions to project teams and leadership.
• Contribute to laboratory innovation, protocol development, and a culture of scientific excellence and safety.

Benefits

• Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skills
• Be part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better place
• Health benefits for you and your family on your first day of employment
• Four weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidays
• Excellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and father
• Future planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree