R&D Scientist 1

Syngenta Group; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Syngenta Crop Protection in Arkansas is seeking an R&D Scientist 1 to lead and support field research trials, evaluate insect, weed, and disease control products, and provide data-driven recommendations for product development and label expansion.

You will collaborate with universities, CROs, and growers, communicate complex results clearly, and travel up to 25% within the region while supporting regulatory labeling initiatives.

Qualifications

• MS degree in Weed Science, Entomology, Plant Pathology, Nematology, or related Agricultural Science field; PhD preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience with an MS or 3 years with a PhD in agricultural research.
• Proven experience conducting field efficacy trials evaluating insect, weed, disease control products, biologicals, biostimulants.
• Strong knowledge of agronomy, crop production systems, and agricultural research methodologies.
• Hands-on experience operating agricultural equipment, including planting, tillage, and application equipment.
• Ability to travel up to 25% within the assigned territory (Arkansas and Missouri).
• Must be able to work extended hours during peak field research seasons; proficiency with MS Office.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage field research trials across crops for crop protection products and biologicals.
• Design, implement, and oversee efficacy trials; ensure high-quality data collection for product development.
• Analyze results and provide technical recommendations to drive product advancement and label expansion.
• Collaborate with universities, extension partners, CROs, and growers to deliver impactful research.
• Provide technical expertise through training, demonstrations, and scientific documentation.

Skills

Field trial design

Data analysis

Project management

Communication skills

Education

MS in Weed Science / Entomology / Plant Pathology / Nematology / related Agricultural Science

PhD preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

At Syngenta Crop Protection,we'repioneering solutions that safeguard global food security while championing sustainable agriculture. As a world market leader headquartered in Switzerland, we empower farmers with innovative crop protection technologies that defend against nature's toughest challenges. We unite advanced science with digital solutions to develop intelligent crop protection that maximizes yields while minimizing environmental impact. Join our mission of revolutionizing plant protection fromseedto harvest.

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 Crop Protection Team is seeking an R&D Scientist 1 inArkansas.

Accountabilities

• Lead and manage field research trials focused on crop protection, including insect, weed, disease, seed treatment, and biological solutions across a diverse range of crops.
• Design, implement, and oversee internal and external efficacy trials while ensuring high-quality data collection to support product development and label expansion.
• Analyze research results and provide technical recommendations that drive product advancement, new applications, and innovative agricultural solutions.
• Collaborate with universities, extension partners, contract research organizations, and growers to deliver impactful research and strengthen industry partnerships.
• Provide technical expertise through training, demonstrations, and scientific documentation to support product positioning, customer education, and regulatory labeling initiatives.

Qualifications

• M.S. degree in Weed Science, Entomology, Plant Pathology, Nematology, or a related Agricultural Science field required; Ph.D. preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience with an M.S. or 3 years with a Ph.D. in agricultural research, including applied field sciences.
• Proven experience conducting field efficacy trials evaluating insect, weed, disease control products, biologicals, biostimulants, and related technologies.
• Strong knowledge of agronomy, crop production systems, and agricultural research methodologies.
• Hands-on experience operating or working with agricultural equipment, including planting, tillage, and application equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, solve complex problems, make sound decisions, and develop innovative solutions that support business objectives.
• Strong communication, organizational, and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, collaborate across teams, and effectively present technical information.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to travel up to 25% within the assigned territory, with occasional travel outside the region. (Arkansas and Missouri)
• Must be able to work extended hours during peak field research seasons as needed.Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship from Syngenta.

Additional Information

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 is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training,promotionor any other employment practices for reasons ofrace, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.