Scientist II

Syngenta Group • Durham, NC

5h • Onsite

About The Position

At Syngenta, our goal is to build the most collaborative and trustworthy team in agriculture, providing top-quality seeds and innovative crop protection solutions that improve farmers' success. To support this mission, Syngenta's Trait Construction Team is seeking a Scientist II in Durham, NC. In this role, you will play a critical part in ensuring the integrity and quality of vectors and Agrobacterium strains used in our GM and GE event generation pipeline. You will manage and curate vector-related data, perform advanced NGS-based validation, and deliver high-quality materials to support downstream processes in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biology with 5+ years of working experience, or Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with 1-3+ years of lab experience in molecular biology lab.
• Proven expertise in molecular techniques, including plasmid DNA extraction, restriction enzyme digestion, PCR and gel electrophoresis, DNA sample preparation for next-generation sequencing (NGS), DNA assembly-based vector cloning, and transformation of plasmid DNA into E. coli and Agrobacterium.
• Expertise in using bioinformatics software for map design & annotation, sequence analysis, BLAST searches and NGS data analysis.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Demonstrated strong troubleshooting skills & problem-solving ability to daily work.
• Good analytical and communication skills in interpreting and presenting results and data.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in handling multi-tasks and good time management skills.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills (written and verbal).
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine molecular biology techniques, including plasmid DNA extraction from Agrobacterium and E coli, restriction enzyme digestion, PCR and gel electrophoresis, DNA sample preparation for next-generation sequencing (NGS), DNA assembly-based vector cloning, and transformation of E. coli and Agrobacterium.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design fit-for-purpose approaches for vector validation and Agrobacterium material generation.
• Review vector maps and verify construct designs to ensure compliance with intended purposes and established guidelines.
• Serve as the gatekeeper to ensure accurate, standardized data and information documented in internal data systems for vector and Agrobacterium strain.
• Contribute to data process improvements, data system enhancements, and the development of new LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) capabilities.
• Work with LIMS and internal databases to enable seamless data flow and integration.
• Utilize public and proprietary bioinformatics tools for BLAST searches, sequence analysis, and NGS data analysis.
• Maintain compliance with quality management system requirements, ensuring accurate QC documentation in Syngenta's data systems.
• Work independently and collaboratively to deliver high-quality data and materials under tight timelines.
• Communicate progress and results effectively with project and functional teams.

Benefits

• A culture that celebrates belonging and collaboration, promotes professional development and strives for a work-life balance that supports the team members.
• Offers flexible work options to support your work and personal needs.
• Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts your first day.
• 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution.
• Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts, among other benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level