Research Investigator

Corteva Agriscience • Johnston, IA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

We’re looking for a passionate and innovative Research Scientist to join the Herbicide Tolerant Trait Assay Discovery and Characterization (HT-ADC) team within Trait Discovery and Optimization. This role is central to advancing Corteva’s herbicide tolerance pipeline by developing and executing high-throughput phenotypic assays that support trait discovery and lead candidate selection. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge trait discovery efforts, collaborate with a high-performing team, and grow your career within Corteva’s innovative biotechnology space. If you’re passionate about scientific discovery and ready to make an impact, we encourage you to apply. This is a site-dedicated position based at Corteva’s Global Business Center in Johnston, IA. Purpose: The HT-ADC team develops and optimizes assay platforms to identify and characterize genes related to herbicide tolerance. These assays enable biological testing of trait concepts, strengthen Corteva’s HT pipeline, and support the delivery of lead candidates for product development. Success in this space is built on strong cross-functional collaboration across multiple teams within Trait Discovery and Optimization, as well as with external partners when appropriate, to align milestones, share insights, and deliver impactful results.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or M.S. in plant sciences or related fields (weed science preferred).
• Strong foundation in plant physiology, herbicide biology and mechanisms of action, resistance mechanisms in weeds, and biotechnology.
• Proven communication and collaboration skills across scientific disciplines.
• Proactive, creative mindset with the ability to work independently and in teams.
• Experience in rapid trait testing, automation, imaging, and/or high throughput platforms.
• Ability to perform in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to productively collaborate with researchers of multiple scientific backgrounds and perspectives
• Agility to learn and pivot based on highly uncertain research outcomes
• Ability to maintain complete, accurate, and timely records of experimental data and procedures
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Copilot, among others)

Nice To Haves

• Computer knowledge on database entries, imaging & image processing, knowledge/experience in programming languages is an asset

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments aligned with HT trait discovery goals
• Develop and optimize assay platforms to identify and characterize herbicide tolerance genes
• Apply scientific principles to solve complex biological problems and support trait advancement
• Design and refine experimental approaches to test herbicide tolerance hypotheses and optimize assay performance and clearly communicate to technical teams for seamless execution
• Envision, develop and implement rapid trait testing, automation, imaging, and/or high throughput platforms.
• Analyze and interpret data and communicate outcomes with recommended actions
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols, data integrity standards, and regulatory guidelines in all research activities
• Prepare technical reports and contribute to scientific publications or intellectual property filings
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies relevant to HT traits
• Identify opportunities to improve assay platforms and propose novel approaches to accelerate trait discovery
• Conduct hands-on work in laboratory and greenhouse settings (100% site-based)
• Safely handle and apply discovery chemistry, solvents, and commercial herbicides
• Understand functionality and operation of instrumentation including liquid handlers, imaging systems, and automated platform
• Partner with HT discovery teams and DAT leaders to support biological testing
• Communicate experimental designs and results clearly to internal and external stakeholders
• Collaborate across departments and locations to manage multiple projects effectively
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to a collaborative, learning-focused team culture

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