Head of Weed Control Research Biology

TN United Kingdom; Bracknell; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an experienced Head of Weed Control Research Biology to lead a dynamic team in Bracknell. This role offers the chance to shape innovative research strategies and develop the next generation of weed control solutions across major cropping systems globally. With a focus on scientific excellence and collaboration, you will drive the integration of novel technologies and a digital-first mindset in the field. Join a stimulating environment that values growth, learning, and impactful contributions to agriculture.

Benefits

Pension Scheme

Private Medical Insurance

Life Insurance

Annual Holiday (up to 31.5 days)

Opportunities for Growth and Learning

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in Agri-science with senior-level research experience.
• Extensive knowledge in global cropping systems focused on weed control.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Weed Control Research Biology group of ~35 staff.
• Drive innovation in weed management strategies and technologies.

Skills

Weed Science

Leadership

Project Management

Cross-functional Collaboration

Communication

Education

Masters in Agri-science

PhD in Agri-science

Job description

Job Title: Head of Weed Control Research Biology, Bracknell

Location: Bracknell, UK

Category: Education

EU Work Permit Required: Yes

Job Reference: 353729c2d4dc

Job Views: 11

Posted: 28.04.2025

Expiry Date: 12.06.2025

Job Description

We have an exciting opportunity for an inspirational leader and experienced weed scientist understanding selective and non-selective weed control solutions in corn, soybean, cereals, and rice. The role involves leading our Weed Control Research Biology Group as Head of Weed Control Research Biology. You will be a member of the Crop Protection (CP) Research Biology Leadership Team and Weed Control Research Portfolio Team. With an entrepreneurial mindset, you will champion digital, data, and pioneering innovation approaches to discover and develop the next generation of weed control solutions (chemistry, biologicals, and alternative management strategies). You will shape and define research strategies and guide projects across major cropping systems globally. Additionally, you will act as a key link between research activities and the broader global weed control business, influencing research targets, evaluating competitor technologies, and integrating emerging technologies into product concepts. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing the Weed Control Research Biology group (~35 staff), emphasizing scientific excellence and biology capabilities to deliver innovative research projects.
• Contributing to the leadership of the Crop Protection Research Biology function and supporting the execution of the R&D strategy.
• Maintaining excellence in weed control biology expertise.
• Fostering innovation by integrating new scientific and technological trends, including novel technologies and alternative weed management solutions.
• Driving the adoption of a digital-first mindset, utilizing advanced phenotyping and automation technologies.
• Maximizing the impact of research biology in supporting the weed control portfolio.
• Collaborating cross-functionally on holistic weed management strategies.
• Partnering with R&D functions to develop innovative strategies addressing key challenges.

Qualifications

What we are looking for?

• Masters or PhD in Agri-science or a related field, with senior-level research/development experience focusing on weed science and management approaches.
• Extensive knowledge and practical experience in key cropping systems globally, focused on weed control.
• Strong leadership skills to set clear directions, ensure high performance, and develop team members.
• Experience working in cross-functional, international project teams.
• An innovative, solution-oriented mindset committed to continuous improvement.
• Excellent influencing, communication, collaboration, and networking skills, with proven project management abilities.
• Knowledge of finance, budgeting, and resource planning.

Additional Information

Our site

Jealott's Hill International Research Centre UK, situated between Bracknell and Maidenhead, is a major global R&D site with about 800 staff. It focuses on discovering new active ingredients, formulation technologies, and product safety.

What we offer

• Extensive benefits including a pension scheme, bonus, private medical & life insurance.
• Up to 31.5 days annual holiday.
• A stimulating, international environment contributing to impactful work in agriculture.
• Opportunities for growth, learning, and training.

Syngenta is ranked among the top employers in agriculture and is committed to diversity and inclusion. We support accessibility throughout our recruitment process and encourage candidates to request reasonable adjustments.