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 Assessment team is seeking a Trait Assessment Scientist in El Ejido, Almer铆a.
This role will support the delivery of robust disease resistance evaluations and phenotyping innovations by designing and validating cutting-edge protocols, integrating molecular and bioinformatics tools, and leading epidemiological monitoring efforts. The successful candidate will work on both discovery projects and commercial variety advancement, operating in state-of-the-art facilities while fostering a collaborative environment and contributing to global trait prioritization strategies.
Accountabilities:
Protocol Development & Optimization
- Design, develop, and validate robust phenotyping protocols for evaluating disease resistance across crop varieties.
- Optimize screening methods to ensure high-quality, reproducible resistance assessments.
- Define and validate standards and work instructions for Trait Assessment processes within Syngenta's quality system.
Molecular & Bioinformatics Integration
- Develop and implement molecular tools (PCR, qPCR, sequencing) for monitoring emerging plant health threats.
- Integrate bioinformatics techniques to support phenotypic evaluations, epidemiology studies, and data-driven decision-making.
- Utilize digital phenotyping tools and scales to capture and deliver biotic data effectively.
Epidemiological Monitoring & Disease Scouting
- Perform disease scouting and track pathogen dynamics to assess disease severity in field and controlled environments.
- Contribute data-driven insights to inform trait prioritization strategies and adapt protocols to emerging threats.
Operational Management & Coordination
- Plan, coordinate, and oversee execution of Trait Assessment operational tasks, including management of staff, interns, and seasonal workers.
- Ensure operations comply with best biosafety and HSE practices in modern infrastructure.
- Contribute to the maintenance and optimization of Trait Assessment equipment and facilities.
Data Analysis & Reporting
- Analyze and interpret complex phenotypic datasets using bioinformatics and statistical tools.
- Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for project teams, leadership, and global or regional stakeholders.
- Participate in technical networks to share insights and learnings across crops and locations
Innovation & Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to enhance Trait Assessment platforms and pathogen detection methodologies.
- Drive implementation of state-of-the-art technologies, methods, and procedures to promote a culture of innovation.
- Build and maintain relationships with external experts and research collaborators to stay at the forefront of scientific advancements.
Leadership & Team Development
- Foster a collaborative environment by sharing expertise and providing coaching or mentoring to team members.
- Support the professional development of colleagues and assume supervisory responsibilities as needed.
- Influence and navigate the needs of diverse global stakeholders with different backgrounds, cultures, and languages.