Trait Genetic Nursery Associate Scientist - Minnesota

Have you thought about how to feed the fast growing world population? We have.

And we are looking for top talent to join our team!

 

Syngenta is a world-leading agribusiness committed to sustainable agriculture through innovative research and technology.  The company is a leader in crop protection, and ranks third in the high-value commercial seeds market.  Sales in 2007 were approximately $9.2 billion.  Syngenta employs over 21,000 people in more than 90 countries.  Syngenta is listed on the Swiss stock exchange (SYNN) and in New York (SYT). 

 

Trait Genetic Nursery Associate Scientist – Stanton, MN – Job Id # 992

 

Role Purpose –

The Trait Genetics Nursery Associate will manage the Trait Genetics Nursery, genetic germplasm, phenotyping and inventory in support of gene discovery and functional characterization studies. The Associate will be an integral part of a multi-disciplinary Discovery Team supporting the development of Native Trait enhanced products and maize germplasm improvements

 

Accountabilities

Manage the Trait Genetics maize Genetics Nursery in Slater, including nursery trial design, seed preparation, planting, designing and implementing the mating designs, managing tasks performed by summer pollinating crews, harvesting, material advancement and inventory. • Manage the IT needs for the Trait Genetics materials, including designing trials, mapping trials, updating pollinations, advancing new materials and creating inventories in SPIRIT (the Syngenta global plant breeding computer system). • Managing all aspects of the maize genetics nursery including planting preparations, seed filling, planting, field maintenance, plant staking/tagging, sample collections, shoot bagging, making pollinations, collecting phenotypes, recording pollinations, harvesting and shelling. • Manage tissue sample collections from the field and/or greenhouse. • Participate in off-season nurseries and/or greenhouse experiments. • Performing all tasks and behaving in a manner compliant with and in support of all safety related company policies and practices, including completing all required Company training courses and attending local safety meetings.

 

 

Knowledge, experience & capabilities –

 

Critical knowledge • MSc in a relevant agricultural or biological scientific discipline or BS with significant experience equivalent years of experience. • Demonstrated knowledge of plant breeding, plant genetics, and crop nursery management. • Preferred knowledge of maize biology, maize genetics or maize breeding. Critical experience • Minimum of four years of hands-on experience working in plant breeding or plant genetics. • Direct experience with working in a crop breeding or genetics nursery. • Direct experience with pedigree, nursery management and inventory computer systems. • Experience with data collection devices and systems for recording field notes and plant phenotypes. Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities • Ability to work independently and be self-motivated. • Ability to provide day-to-day work instructions to regular employees and oversee tasks performed by third-party contract labor. • Ability to work in a team structure with individuals of diverse expertise and backgrounds. • Excellent oral and written communication skills. • Effective time management and multi-tasking skills, meeting deadlines. • Ability to adapt to changing demands and learn new skills as the position requires. • Highly organized and pays close attention to details. • Strong computer skills, especially Microsoft office (Excel, Access) and ability to learn the Syngenta global plant breeding computer system. • Ability to exercise judgment within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions

 

Critical success factors & key challenges • Ability to manage and run a maize genetic research nursery and inventory. • Ability to work independently, often with little supervision. • Ability to complete projects, interpret results and communicate findings to the supervisor and team. • Ability to work as part of a team that is geographically separated. • Ability to be flexible in approach and thinking to solve problems.

Additional Info-

• A minimum of 2 years in current position is required (requirement for internal applicants only)

• All applicants must be eligible to work in the US. PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: • Work under pressure of deadlines • Work in the seed handling lab or at a computer for long periods of time. • Work outside in maize genetic nursery under diverse weather conditions (high and low temperatures). • Some travel by car or plane. • Capable of lifting up to 50 pounds. • Capable of working long hours during time-critical periods of the growing season.

WORKING CONDITIONS WHILE PERFORMING ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: • Typical field, greenhouse, laboratory, office environments. • Domestic travel required with occasional overnight stays • Travel outside continental U.S. may be required. • Stays at off-season nursery locations may extend to two to three weeks. • Potential pollen, fungal spores, chemical pesticides in the field or greenhouse.¾allergens

Syngenta offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including market-based pay, health/dental insurance, a generous 401(k) program, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and relocation assistance.

 

Qualified candidates should apply today! Please submit your application online at www.syngentacareers.com. EOE