Corn Breeding Scientist

Vylor; Ivesdale (IL); On-site; USD 130,000 - 137,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits from day one

Paid time off (4 weeks) + well-being

Parental leave (16 weeks)

Retirement plan and tuition assistance

Job summary

Vylor Inc. is seeking a Corn Breeding Scientist to lead and advance full-season corn inbred lines and hybrids. The role focuses on executing breeding research, coordinating with a regional team, and leveraging data analytics to drive product development objectives.

The position requires a PhD in plant breeding or genetics, strong communication, field experience, and proficiency in R/Python. Champaign, IL is preferred, with consideration for other centers based on qualifications.

Qualifications

• PhD in plant breeding or plant genetics; emphasis on genetics and data analytics preferred.
• Independent, self-directed scientist with strong research experience in plant genetics or breeding.
• Proficiency in quantitative genetics, population genetics, or genome-wide approaches is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct corn breeding research initiatives to develop yellow corn inbreds and hybrids.
• Lead multi-site breeding programs with regional scientists to deliver superior hybrids.
• Develop and deploy selection strategies for multi-trait improvements.
• Collaborate across teams to communicate results and accelerate product development.
• Work with field teams for planting, pollinating, harvesting, and data collection.

Skills

Plant breeding

Data analytics

R

Python

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in plant breeding or plant genetics

Tools

Job description

Join Vylor—Powering the Future of AgricultureAt Vylor, we’re advancing agriculture through breakthrough science—combining elite germplasm, cutting-edge biotech, and next-generation expertise in gene editing and molecular breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer, Brevant, and Hoegemeyer, delivering performance farmers rely on.Join us to help scale innovation globally and shape what’s next in crop science.We are seeking a Corn Breeding Scientist to join our team. This role will focus on the development of full-season corn inbred lines and hybrid products. The ideal location for this position is Champaign, IL, but consideration will be given to other Southern/Eastern breeding centers depending on candidate qualifications.What You’ll Do:Plans and conduct comprehensive corn breeding research initiatives which furthers the development of yellow corn inbreds/hybrids and associated research projects. Identifies internal and external customer needs. Work implies hands-on analysis, advanced breeding, training, and field activity.In conjunction with a regional team of scientists, lead a corn breeding research program that delivers superior hybrids, which provide performance improvements consistent with product development objectives.Leverage enabling breeding technologies to drive product development improvements.Advance novel methodology useful for the development of new corn hybrids.Contribute to leadership of the Research Center and effectively communicate with other scientists as necessary to ensure the success of all research activities at the Research Center.Develop and deploy selection strategies for multi-trait selection of traits of interest.Work both independently and as a member of a regional team to deliver products.What Skills You Need:PhD in plant breeding or plant genetics, with an emphasis in the areas of genetics and data analytics is preferred.An independent, highly motivated, and self-directed scientist is required.Comprehensive knowledge and applied research experience in plant genetics or plant breeding.Proficiency with one or more coding languages is preferred (R, Python).Strong verbal and written communication skills and a proven ability to work well in a team environment.Experience or familiarity with quantitative/population genetics, meta analysis, genome wide prediction methods, and other digital breeding methods.Preference given to those with experience in leveraging artificial intelligence into their daily work.Experience with field research processes and phenotypic data analyses and utilization is essential.Strong organizational skills to plan and coordinate experiments across projects and abilities to effectively share results across the organization are required.Excellent personal interaction skills required for effectively developing strong internal and external working relationships with a diverse group of people.We seek unique leaders who are strongly motivated by the desire to solve scientific questions; who are highly skilled quantitative scientists that excel at deeply investigating phenotypic and genetic information; and who can deliver results in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.Must be able to work in varying ergonomic environments including field activities such as planting, pollinating, harvest, and data collection.Benefits – How We’ll Support You:Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skillsBe part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better placeHealth benefits for you and your family on your first day of employmentFour weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidaysExcellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and fatherFuture planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement programLearn more about our total rewards package here - Vylor BenefitsCheck out life at Vylor! https://www.linkedin.com/company/vylorgenetics/Are you a good match? Apply today! We seek applicants from all backgrounds to ensure we get the best, most creative talent on our team.The salary range for this position is $130,212.00 to $137,446.00.This reflects a reasonable estimate of the targeted base salary for this role. This role is also eligible for an annual bonus. Based on factors such as geographic location and candidate qualifications, actual base pay is determined when an employment offer is made.Vylor is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to embracing our differences to enrich lives, advance innovation, and boost company performance. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, military or veteran status, pregnancy related conditions (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), disability or any other protected status in accordance with federal, state, or local laws.