Biology Experimentalist

Syngenta is a leading science-based agritech company; dedicated to bringing plant potential to life. Each of our 30,000 employees in more than 100 countries work together to solve one of humanity’s most pressing challenges: growing more food with fewer resources. A diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace environment are enablers of our ambition to be the most collaborative and trusted team in agriculture.

Our employees reflect the diversity of our customers, the markets where we operate and the communities which we serve. No matter what your position, you will have a vital role in safely feeding the world and taking care of our planet. Join us and help shape the future of agriculture

Jealott's Hill International Research Centre is situated in pleasant semi-rural surroundings between Bracknell and Maidenhead and is the place of work for approximately 800 Syngenta scientists and support staff. Jealott’s Hill is one of the main global research and development sites and key activities include discovery and research of novel chemical active ingredients, biocontrol products, formulation technologies, with related product safety and technical support of our product range and seeds research.

About this role:

Syngenta’s Discovery Biology group have an opportunity for a Biology Experimentalist to join their team. In this role you will be responsible for running assays, including preparing materials and equipment, and collecting data, for high throughput screening of chemicals and biologicals against a variety of weeds, insect pests and fungal pathogens to find starting points for herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides of the future. Additionally, you will also run high throughput, biochemistry bases in vitro assays to determine the mode of action of these potential pesticides

Please see below a more detailed outline of the position:

• Each week you will run a variety of different high throughput whole organism or in vitro assays that generate data to support our research projects. To do this you will use state of the art automation and digital technologies, and work alongside numerous teams to contribute towards the delivery of results.
• Your role will be to run these assays to a high standard and build expertise within specialised areas of Discovery biology. You will use your knowledge and experience to identify problems and work with colleagues to troubleshoot and improve existing procedures.
• Assess and record data from biological screens ensuring it is accurately transferred to a computer database using a variety of in house and commercial software.
• Maintain insect and pathogen cultures for the biological screens.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to share observations from routine work, contributing towards problem solving and improving ways of working
• Work proactively to develop technical knowledge to compliment observations and improve ability to contribute insights to technical discussions
• Work to maintain a safe and co-operative working environment through high personal standards and attention to HSE standards and guidelines.
• Take on additional roles and responsibilities, when necessary, to progress your personal development in the role

Knowledge, experience & capabilities

• Likely to be technically trained to HNC/HND/degree level or equivalent, ideally with some laboratory experience on high throughput screening. More experienced candidates without formal qualifications may be considered.
• A broad understanding of biology that could include knowledge of biochemistry, cell biology, weed science, entomology, plant pathology, crop science/agricultural science would be advantageous
• Relevant practical laboratory experience is essential, particularly if in areas of biological screening.
• Demonstrated experience of working effectively within different team environments would be very advantageous.
• Well demonstrated practical laboratory skills. Both manual dexterity and good observational skills are required
• Ability to work well within a variety of team environments
• Good IT skills for data handling
• A demonstrated ability for attention to detail and ability to work consistently to required standards.
• Good self-organisational skills

Knowledge, experience & capabilities

• Likely to be technically trained to HNC/HND/degree level or equivalent, ideally with some laboratory experience on high throughput screening. More experienced candidates without formal qualifications may be considered.
• A broad understanding of biology that could include knowledge of biochemistry, cell biology, weed science, entomology, plant pathology, crop science/agricultural science would be advantageous
• Relevant practical laboratory experience is essential, particularly if in areas of biological screening.
• Demonstrated experience of working effectively within different team environments would be very advantageous.
• Well demonstrated practical laboratory skills. Both manual dexterity and good observational skills are required
• Ability to work well within a variety of team environments
• Good IT skills for data handling
• A demonstrated ability for attention to detail and ability to work consistently to required standards.
• Good self-organisational skills