Agronomic Research Scientist

Syngentagroup; Slater (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental & Vision

401k with match

Paid Vacation

Paid Holidays

Education Assistance

Job summary

Syngenta in Slater, IA seeks an accomplished agronomy research scientist to lead corn and soybean variety studies. You will design and execute field trials, manage data collection, and collaborate with sales and agronomy teams to deliver technically robust recommendations.

You will analyze results, prepare technical reports, and present findings to internal and external stakeholders, driving informed decisions and brand credibility.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Agronomy or related field preferred; otherwise MS with 5+ years of agronomy research experience.
• Strong statistical data analysis and field trial design skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to present findings to diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead agronomy research studies on corn and soybean varieties in Slater, IA.
• Design, prioritize, and execute field trials including plot planning and treatments.
• Coordinate field activities, data collection, and staff supervision across sites.
• Analyze yield and agronomic data; prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Communicate findings to sales, agronomy teams, dealers, and customers.

Skills

Agronomy research

Statistical data analysis

Communication skills

Project coordination

Field trial planning

Education

Ph.D. in Agronomy or related field

M.S. in Agronomy (with 5+ years experience)

Tools

R

SAS

Excel

Job description

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 Sales Team is seeking a (position title) in Slater, IA. This role will support Syngenta's marketing and sales objectives by conducting comprehensive agronomic research studies on corn and soybean varieties, delivering value-added agronomic content that strengthens NK and Golden Harvest brand positioning as trusted agronomic advisors in the marketplace.

Accountabilities

• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with sales and agronomy teams across Eastern Commercial Units to identify regional needs and deliver targeted agronomic solutions.
• Lead the complete research lifecycle, from study design and prioritization through pre-planting preparations, including technology agreements, seed treatment, plot planning, and field mapping for corn and soybean variety trials.
• Oversee all field activities, including planting, plot maintenance, harvest operations, treatment applications, data collection, and supervision of part-time research personnel across multiple research sites.
• Conduct statistical analysis of yield and agronomic data; prepare technical reports and presentations; and confidently present research findings to internal teams, dealers, customers, and industry influencers.
• Maintain research equipment precision and efficiency through routine maintenance, seasonal preparation, and innovative equipment design to support accurate treatment applications and data collection.

Qualifications and Experience

• Ph.D. and/or M.S. in Agronomy or a related field strongly preferred.
• Candidates without postgraduate training, but holding a B.S. in Agronomy with five or more years of experience conducting agronomy research trials and statistical data analysis, will be considered.
• 5+ years of experience in a commercial or R&D agronomy role, with a strong technical background and understanding of sales/commercial aspects.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to deliver key messages clearly and concisely.
• Good personnel and facility management skills.
• In-depth understanding of statistical principles and data analysis.
• Knowledge of farming best practices, seed technologies, and crop protection.
• Ability to skillfully plan, organize, and monitor performance to meet deadlines.
• Ability to coach people to excel by giving clear, direct, and skillful feedback.
• Ability to help teams understand how objectives are aligned with company strategy and how they add value.

What We Offer

• A culture that celebrates belonging and collaboration, promotes professional development and strives for a work-life balance that supports the team members. Offers flexible work options to support your work and personal needs.
• Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts your first day.
• 401k 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.
• Syngenta has been ranked as a top employer by Science Journal. Learn more about our team and our mission here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVCN_51GbNI
• 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.
• WL: 4A
• #LI-Hybrid