Trait Assessment Scientist

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 Trait Assessment team is seeking a Trait Assessment Scientist in El Ejido, Almería.

This role will support the delivery of robust disease resistance evaluations and phenotyping innovations by designing and validating cutting-edge protocols, integrating molecular and bioinformatics tools, and leading epidemiological monitoring efforts. The successful candidate will work on both discovery projects and commercial variety advancement, operating in state-of-the-art facilities while fostering a collaborative environment and contributing to global trait prioritization strategies.

Accountabilities:

Protocol Development & Optimization

• Design, develop, and validate robust phenotyping protocols for evaluating disease resistance across crop varieties.
• Optimize screening methods to ensure high-quality, reproducible resistance assessments.
• Define and validate standards and work instructions for Trait Assessment processes within Syngenta's quality system.

Molecular & Bioinformatics Integration

• Develop and implement molecular tools (PCR, qPCR, sequencing) for monitoring emerging plant health threats.
• Integrate bioinformatics techniques to support phenotypic evaluations, epidemiology studies, and data-driven decision-making.
• Utilize digital phenotyping tools and scales to capture and deliver biotic data effectively.

Epidemiological Monitoring & Disease Scouting

• Perform disease scouting and track pathogen dynamics to assess disease severity in field and controlled environments.
• Contribute data-driven insights to inform trait prioritization strategies and adapt protocols to emerging threats.

Operational Management & Coordination

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee execution of Trait Assessment operational tasks, including management of staff, interns, and seasonal workers.
• Ensure operations comply with best biosafety and HSE practices in modern infrastructure.
• Contribute to the maintenance and optimization of Trait Assessment equipment and facilities.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze and interpret complex phenotypic datasets using bioinformatics and statistical tools.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for project teams, leadership, and global or regional stakeholders.
• Participate in technical networks to share insights and learnings across crops and locations

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to enhance Trait Assessment platforms and pathogen detection methodologies.
• Drive implementation of state-of-the-art technologies, methods, and procedures to promote a culture of innovation.
• Build and maintain relationships with external experts and research collaborators to stay at the forefront of scientific advancements.

Leadership & Team Development

• Foster a collaborative environment by sharing expertise and providing coaching or mentoring to team members.
• Support the professional development of colleagues and assume supervisory responsibilities as needed.
• Influence and navigate the needs of diverse global stakeholders with different backgrounds, cultures, and languages.