Research Scientist in Insect Control

As a world market leader in crop protection, we help farmers to counter these threats and ensure enough safe, nutritious, affordable food for all – while minimizing the use of land and other agricultural inputs. Syngenta Crop Protection keeps plants safe from planting to harvesting. From the moment a seed is planted through to harvest, crops need to be protected from weeds, insects and diseases as well as droughts and floods, heat and cold. Syngenta Crop Protection is headquartered in Switzerland.

Health Promotion Switzerland recognizes Syngenta's commitment to the health and well-being of its employees and awards the "Friendly Work Space" label to all its Swiss sites. At Syngenta, employee health and well-being are key to the company.

Role Purpose: 

This position focuses on insecticide research and insect control through Screening Operations. The role combines hands-on laboratory work with scientific analysis, emphasizing the development and execution of screening methods for both routine and specialized testing. The scientist will drive digital transformation initiatives while working collaboratively across teams.

Accountabilities: 

• Planning and executing scientific experiments independently while managing schedules 
• Supporting experimental programs in consultation with management and scientific experts 
• Conducting routine insecticide screening with consistent high quality and throughput 
• Developing and optimizing screening methods and protocols for insect control applications 
• Implementing and advancing digital solutions, particularly image analysis for trial evaluation to replace visual assessments 
• Documenting experiments, interpreting data, and proposing follow-up actions 
• Maintaining comprehensive lab journals for test reproducibility 
• Managing laboratory equipment, instruments, and facilities 
• Developing and improving methods, SOPs, and risk assessments 
• Providing technical training and guidance to team members 
• Participating in cross-functional projects and establishing networks 
• Communicating results through reports and presentations 
• Contributing to operational efficiency improvements through cross-functional collaboration 
• Ensuring HSE and biosafety compliance with Syngenta standards 

• Apprenticeship, BMS, or BSc in Agrobiology, Entomology, or related technical field 
• Fluency in English and German 
• 2-3 years laboratory experience (experience in insect control/crop protection is advantageous)
• Strong digital literacy with willingness to drive digitalization initiatives 
• Self-motivated with strong personal drive and initiative 
• Excellent adaptability and openness to new approaches and technologies 
• Strong commitment to continuous learning and knowledge acquisition 
• Excellent knowledge sharing and collaboration skills 
• Ability to work effectively across different functions 
• Team-oriented mindset  
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and methods

We offer a variety of financial and non-financial benefits including:

• We offer a position which contributes to valuable and impactful work in a stimulating and international environment
• A superb working environment with an open culture and diverse workforce where new ideas are always welcome
• The opportunity to work with and learn from highly qualified and experienced employees and gain scientific and technical excellence
• Learning culture (Together we Grow) and wide range of training options
• You will profit from a competitive pension fund plan, attractive bonus system, onsite doctor, fitness room, canteen, and other benefits (Family friendly initiatives, Child and Family allowance…)

Please send your complete application with CV, motivation letter, diploma and work certificates (if applicable).

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