Research Scientist

Syngenta Group•Durham, NC

2d•$64,000 - $96,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Scientist is a key member of the soybean trait introgression team and supports GM/GE trait pipeline processes and broader greenhouse operations. The role contributes to the timely delivery of high-quality trait introgression materials aligned with project objectives and generates reliable experimental data to inform plant selection and generation-advancement decisions. All work is performed in accordance with Syngenta’s Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies and applicable procedures.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in plant biology, agronomy, or a closely related discipline from an accredited university.
At least 3 years of experience.
Good knowledge of plant physiology, including soybean.
Knowledge of soybean material traceability and data management.
Knowledge of greenhouse equipment and operations, and integrated pest management (IPM).
Experience working with a major field crop such as soybean or corn.
Experience in soybean cultivation and crossing under well-controlled growth environments.
Demonstrated expertise in soybean crossing, with high efficiency and consistently strong crossing success rates.
Ability to work consistently and accurately, with strong attention to detail, documentation, and traceability.
Ability to communicate clearly, coordinate effectively across teams, and raise risks early.
Ability to take ownership of commitments and adapt approaches as priorities or conditions change.
Ability to respond effectively to unexpected biological or operational issues while maintaining quality and meeting delivery commitments.

Responsibilities

Execute assigned soybean crossing, backcrossing, and generation-advancement activities according to approved protocols and project timelines.
Manage plant growth, flowering schedules, and plant health through greenhouse care and coordination of integrated pest management activities.
Maintain accurate plant identification, cross labeling, and pedigree records, and ensure sample and seed traceability through harvest, processing, and storage.
Collect, validate, and enter experimental data into designated databases; summarize and present results.
Coordinate assigned trait introgression activities with greenhouse, breeding, analytical, and trait teams; communicate progress and promptly escalate technical issues.
Support routine greenhouse operations, including planting, irrigation, tissue sampling, controlled pollination, harvesting, seed processing, and pest management.
Work on a rotational basis as a weekend team member and work on holidays as needed.