Agronomic Research Scientist

ISU Research Park; Slater (MO); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Syngenta in Slater, IA seeks an agronomy-focused researcher to lead corn and soybean variety trials, from study design to field mapping and data analysis. You will deliver agronomic content that strengthens NK and Golden Harvest as trusted advisors in the market.

You will build cross-functional relationships with sales and agronomy teams, manage field activities, and present findings to internal teams, dealers, customers, and industry influencers, while ensuring equipment efficiency and timely

Qualifications

• Ph.D. and/or M.S. in Agronomy or related field preferred.
• BS in Agronomy with 5+ years of agronomy research and data analysis considered.
• 5+ years in a commercial or R&D agronomy role with sales understanding.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Knowledge of statistical principles and data analysis.
• Knowledge of seed technologies and crop protection.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with sales and agronomy teams to identify regional needs.
• Lead the lifecycle of research studies from design to field mapping for trials.
• Oversee field activities including planting, maintenance, harvest, and data collection.
• Analyze yield and agronomic data; prepare reports and present findings.
• Maintain research equipment precision and seasonal maintenance.
• Coach teams to align objectives with company strategy.

Skills

Agronomy research

Statistical analysis

Data presentation

Communication skills

Leadership/management

Education

PhD or MS in Agronomy

BS in Agronomy with 5+ years experience

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

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.