Research Biologist

Syngenta; Bracknell; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural innovation firm in the UK is seeking a Research Biologist to support Crop Protection Research by maintaining plant materials for chemical screening research. The successful candidate will engage in creating quality seeds and contribute to the development of new pesticide products. Ideal candidates will have a B.Sc. degree or relevant experience in horticulture and knowledge of seed biology. The role offers a stimulating work environment and extensive benefits including a generous pension scheme and up to 31.5 days of annual holiday.

Benefits

Generous pension scheme

Bonus scheme

Private medical insurance

Up to 31.5 days annual holiday

Qualifications

• Solid experience preferred in horticulture or scientific research.
• Knowledge of horticultural and general weed science is beneficial.
• Experience in seed production techniques is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Produce and maintain plant material and seeds for research.
• Assist with processing seeds to ensure quality.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures and regulations.

Skills

Horticulture/Scientific research experience

Knowledge of seed biology and germination methods

Detail-oriented

Strong analytical abilities

Excellent communication skills

Proactive problem-solving

Education

B.Sc. degree or A levels in relevant field

Job description

Company Description

Syngenta Crop Protection is a leader in agricultural innovation, bringing breakthrough technologies and solutions that enable farmers to grow healthy and nutritious food while taking care of the planet. We offer a leading portfolio of crop protection solutions for plant and soil health, as well as digital solutions that transform the decision‑making capabilities of farmers. Our 17,900 employees serve to advance agriculture in more than 90 countries around the world. Syngenta Crop Protection is headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, and is part of the Syngenta Group.

Our employees reflect the diversity of our customers, the markets where we operate and the communities which we serve. Regardless of your position, you will have a vital role in safely feeding an ever‑increasing population while taking care of our planet. Join us and help shape the future of agriculture.

Job Description

We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Biologist to support Crop Protection Research (CPR) by producing and maintaining plant material and seeds for use in chemical screening research. You will be part of Seed Supply and Early Profiling Screen (EPS) Operations within Technical Support, Weed Control Team, playing a pivotal role in the invention and development process for new active ingredients, while providing technical support for our existing range of pesticide products.

• Carrying out day‑to‑day production and maintenance of plant materials to a standard that meets customers’ requirements.
• Developing technical knowledge and skills through experience of a wide range of production techniques and seed treatment.
• Assisting with the processing of seeds using appropriate equipment to ensure seed quality and supply is maintained.
• Planning and ensuring delivery of protocols, primarily for the EPS platform but also be able to cover other areas within the team.
• Gaining knowledge of relevant Weed Control Research (WCR) projects associated with planning the EPS platform.
• Contributing to safety performance by maintaining a clean and safe personal working environment complying with all safety procedures and HSE regulations.
• Ensuring compliance by self and others with DEFRA, CBD, QMS and HSE regulations in glasshouses, growthrooms and labs.
• Demonstrating accountability and precision in work execution while maintaining accurate records and databases.
• Taking initiative in projects, problem‑solving, and team training while contributing valuable ideas in operations.
• Building strong cross‑functional relationships to ensure high customer satisfaction and operational excellence, while demonstrating strong work ethic and consistency.

Qualifications

• B.Sc. degree or A levels with solid experience in Horticulture/Scientific research is preferred with knowledge of Horticultural and/or Seed supply and general weed science.
• Knowledge of seed biology and germination methods with basic knowledge in plant genetics.
• Experience in seed production and general plant production techniques would be an advantage.
• Detail‑oriented professional with strong analytical and organizational abilities.
• Self‑motivated team player with excellent communication and adaptability skills.
• Proactive problem‑solver committed to improve WOWs.

Application Process

Due to exceptionally high interest in this position, we will only consider applications that include a covering letter explaining your motivation and suitability for the role. Please upload your CV and write your cover letter in the “Message to the Hiring Team” section on the application page or attach it along with your CV.

Site

Jealott’s Hill International Research Centre UK is situated in pleasant semi‑rural surroundings between Bracknell and Maidenhead and is the place of work for approximately 800 Syngenta scientists and support staff. Jealott’s Hill is one of the main global research and development sites and key activities include research into discovery of new active ingredients, new formulation technologies, product safety and technical support of our product range.

What We Offer

• Extensive benefits package including a generous pension scheme, bonus scheme, private medical & life insurance.
• Up to 31.5 days annual holiday.
• Campus environment.
• We offer a position which contributes to valuable and impactful work in a stimulating and international environment.
• The chance to work with and learn from highly qualified and experienced employees.
• A vibrant growth and learning culture and wide range of training options.

Equal Opportunity

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Learn more about our D&I initiatives here: https://www.syngenta.com/careers/working-syngenta/diversity-and-inclusion

Disability Confidence

Jealott’s Hill has Disability Confident certification. We are committed to making all stages of our recruitment process accessible to all candidates and our Jealott’s Hill site are a Disability Confident Level 2 Employer. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments throughout your application and we will do everything we can to support you.