Senior Scientist I Team Leader

Syngenta Group•Durham, NC

17h•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Scientist I Team Leader leads a team of scientists focused on transgenic event generation and the development of innovative genetic engineering capabilities to improve major field crops. The role advances genetic engineering technologies that support genetically modified and genome-edited crop development, and develops approaches for delivering high-quality trait products with speed, efficiency, and scientific rigor. The position applies advanced scientific principles and state-of-the-art technologies to develop genome engineering and transgene expression solutions for biotech trait research and development. It also develops methods and protocols, integrates emerging technologies, and improves team capabilities and operational efficiency to accelerate innovation and product advancement. The role provides scientific expertise and leadership to design and deliver studies, evaluates and implements changes to protocols or systems, and contributes to product, process, and service improvements in changing business and regulatory environments.

Requirements

Ph.D. degree with at least 6 years of hands-on experience in plant molecular biology and genetic engineering, or related biotechnology experience.
Experience leading a team in a research operations environment.
Experience working with research collaborators and partners.
Experience in genomics, molecular biology, and gene-editing technologies.
A track record of delivering research and innovation through journal publications or patent applications.

Nice To Haves

Rich experience in recombinant DNA technology, cellular biology, microbiology, genome editing, and plant transformation.
Excellent experience in plant development, plant physiology, plant breeding, genetics, applied genomics, biochemistry, and agricultural biotechnology.
Excellent analytical and communication skills for interpreting and presenting study results.
Proficiency with standard software such as Excel and PowerPoint; familiarity with applied genomics tools, bioinformatics tools, NGS analysis, and DNA manipulation software.
Demonstrated experience leading a dynamic technical team.
Demonstrated problem-solving ability in recombinant DNA technology and genetic engineering technology development.
Flexibility in handling new job assignments and achieving results in a rapidly changing work environment.
Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with individuals across the organization and business units, with the ability to influence without authority.
Ability to lead technology development independently, deliver high-quality results with data-driven interpretation, and work in a fast-changing environment with shifting priorities.

Responsibilities

Lead a team of scientists in transgenic event generation and the development of novel crop genetic engineering capabilities for major field crops.
Provide scientific expertise and leadership to design and deliver studies defined by a group, project, or supervisor.
Develop new methods and protocols and introduce cellular and molecular technologies to improve functional capability and efficiency.
Initiate, evaluate, and implement changes to established protocols or systems.
Deliver results in fast-changing business and regulatory environments.
Use best practices and knowledge to improve capabilities, processes, or services.
Contribute to product, process, or service improvements.