Senior Scientist I Team Leader

Company Description

At Syngenta Seeds Field Crops, we're shaping the future of agriculture and empowering farmers to meet the ever-growing demand for food and fuel. We’re a global Ag Tech powerhouse, headquartered in the United States, with passionate, local experts collaborating with farmers to deliver solutions that create market opportunities. We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for unmatched in-field performance. Our seeds help mitigate risks such as disease, insect, weed, and extreme weather pressures, all while promoting sustainable farming practices that protect and enhance our planet. Join our mission of revolutionizing food security and transforming agriculture.

Job Description

This role is responsible for leading a team of scientists focused on transgenic event generation and the development of innovative crop genetic engineering capabilities to enhance major field crops. As a key leader within the organization, the position advances Syngenta’s genetic engineering technologies that support both genetically modified (GM) and genome-edited (GE) crop development, while driving the creation and implementation of novel approaches that deliver high-quality trait products with speed, efficiency, and scientific rigor. The Senior Scientist applies advanced scientific principles and state-of-the‑art technologies to develop new genome engineering and transgene expression solutions that strengthen biotech trait research and development programs. Additionally, the role is responsible for developing new methods and protocols, integrating emerging technologies, and continuously improving the team's capabilities and operational efficiency to accelerate innovation and product advancement.

Accountabilities

• Leads a team of scientists in transgenic event generation and the development of novel crop genetic engineering capabilities for improvement of major field crops.
• Provides scientific expertise and leadership required to design and deliver studies defined by a group, project, or supervisor.
• Develops new methods and protocols and brings new cellular and molecular technologies to improve function capability and efficiency.
• Initiates, evaluates, and implements changes to established protocols or systems.
• Delivers results in fast‑changing business and/or regulatory environments.
• Uses best practices and knowledge to improve capabilities, process or service.
• Contributes to product, process or service improvements.

Qualifications

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

Desired Qualifications

• Rich experience in recombinant DNA technology, cellular biology, microbiology, genome editing, plant transformation.
• Excellent experience in plant development, plant physiology, plant breeding, genetics, applied genomics, biochemistry and agricultural biotechnology.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills in interpreting and presenting study results.
• Proficiency with standard software (e.g., Excel and PowerPoint); familiarity with applied genomics tools, bioinformatics tools, NGS analysis and DNA manipulation software.
• Demonstrated experience in leading a dynamic technical team.
• Problem‑solving ability in the context of recombinant DNA technology and genetic engineering technology development.
• Flexibility in handling new job assignments and achieving results in a rapidly changing work environment.
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to influence without authority; effective communication across the organization and business units.
• Ability to lead technology development independently, deliver high‑quality results with data‑driven interpretation, and work in a fast‑changing environment with dynamic priority shifting.

What We Offer

• A culture that celebrates belonging and collaboration, promotes professional development and supports work‑life balance.
• Flexible work options to support personal and professional needs.
• Full benefit package (Medical, Dental & Vision) starting day one.
• 401(k) 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.
• Recognition as a top employer by Science Journal.