Germplasm Development Scientist- Subtropical Corn

Role purpose

• · To be part of Sub-Tropical segment breeding program to enhance Syngenta's germplasm and seed product performance
• · Manage breeding projects for developing competitive inbreds and profitable hybrids
• · Leverage Syngenta's global R&D capabilities and technologies
• · Transform business strategy into breeding priorities
• · Foster cross-functional synergies for successful commercialization

Accountabilities

Breeding Program Leadership

• ·Spearhead Sub-Tropical corn breeding program in India
• · Collaborating with multiple teams (Global and regional germplasm development teams, Applied team, Breeding operations team, Portfolio planning team) for product development

Technical Responsibilities

1. Project Management

•  Design and implement breeding projects
•  Champion modern breeding methods
•  Plan crosses and testing protocols
•  Manage pipeline advancement decisions

2. Communication & Reporting

•  Update development of lines and hybrid status
•  Maintain pipeline and advancement statistics
•  Monitor KPIs and program efficiency

3. Technology Integration

•  Implement Genomics-assisted breeding (GAB)
•  Utilize DH and modern breeding tools
•  Participate in global protocol improvements
• Coordinate with regional seed operations

Business accountabilities

1. Pipeline & Product Development

• · Drive genetic gain to deliver superior commercial products meeting market demands
• · Manage breeding pipelines from concept to commercial release
• · Ensure product development aligns with Target Product Profile (TPP) and market requirements
• · Meet annual advancement targets for new hybrids/varieties
• · Optimize breeding cycle time and resource utilization
• · Maintain competitive advantage through innovative breeding strategies

2. Resource & Investment Management

• · Manage annual breeding program budget effectively
• · Optimize resource allocation across projects
• · Drive cost-efficient breeding operations
• · Make data-driven decisions on project investments

3. Business Impact & Value Creation

• · Contribute to market share growth through superior genetics
• · Develop products that command premium pricing
• · Support commercial teams with technical product knowledge
• · Protect intellectual property through proper documentation
• · Build long-term germplasm value for sustainable business growth

Knowledge, experience & capabilities

• · Ph.D. or Masters in Plant Breeding and Genetics /or equivalent experience
• · Minimum 8 years of successful breeding experience
• · Proven commercial breeding success

Critical knowledge

• · Advanced plant breeding and corn germplasm expertise (specific to Sub-Tropical and Temperate market segments)
• · Strong GWS and marker applications knowledge
• · Statistical and field plot techniques
• · Cross-cultural business operations

Critical experience

• · R&D team leadership
• · Complex project management
• · Matrix environment operations
• · Cross-functional collaboration

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities

• · Leadership and innovation capabilities
• · Strategic thinking and decision-making
• · Excellent organizational abilities
• · Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• · Advanced computer proficiency
• · R&D process understanding

Critical leadership capabilities

Strategic Leadership

• Goal setting
• Impactful communication
• Change management

Operational Excellence

• Innovation culture development
• Customer focus
• Performance management
• People development

Collaborative Leadership

• Cross-boundary collaboration
• Team building
• Organizational development

Critical success factors (KPIs)

• · Advancement of commercially viable hybrids
• · Implementation of cutting-edge breeding methodologies and make data driven decisions
• · Delivery of high quality breeding lines

Key challenges

• · Technical Challenges – Developing market segment germplasm and adapting to rapid technological changes
• · Operational Challenges – Seasonal time pressure and Data management
• · Market Challenges - Time to market demands and Changing farmer preferences

Additional information

Travel Requirements

• · Field visits to research stations
• · Multi-location trial inspections
• · Internal team meetings and collaborations
• · Stakeholder meetings
• · Research station audits

Mobility

• Extended periods in field conditions
• Walking through corn crop fields
• Ability to work in various weather conditions

Professional Development

• Continuous learning opportunities
• Scientific publication support
• Conference participation
• Skill development programs
• Leadership training