Senior Scientist: Biochemistry and Protein Science

Job Description

Role Purpose:

We are seeking a Senior Research Scientist with experiences in protein engineering to join the Trait Discovery team of Syngenta Group Beijing Innovation center, China.  The primary responsibilities of this role are to provide technical leadership and scientific expertise in protein engineering and characterization to innovate in gene discovery, protein optimization and mode-of-action studies for insect control traits. The candidate will lead and work in a collaborative environment, providing significant contributions to the cross-disciplinary innovations for the optimization and development of the next generation traits for Seeds business.

Accountabilities:

• Provide technical leadership and scientific expertise on the characterization and optimization of insecticidal proteins in vitro  
• Stay current with scientific literature and technological advances in protein biochemistry, engineering and insect trait research to drive innovation and science excellence on the next-generation insect-control trait discovery and mode-of-action studies
• Drive innovative ideas into project proposals, design and run scientific experiments, and handle experimental trouble shooting
• Lead project scientific strategies and team members to ensure timely project delivery through cross-team collaboration and drive timely alignment with technical experts and key stakeholders
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, prepare technical reports, and present findings to project teams and stakeholders. 
• Drive continuous improvements in project and experimental strategies and methods through data analysis and adoption of emerging technologies to enhance research capabilities
• Performs all activities in compliance with company quality management, IP and HSE guidance

Qualifications

Knowledge, experience & capabilities:

• Ph.D. in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or a related major
• Postdoc or work experience in industry or academia is required
• People management experience is preferred
• Years’ experience in protein engineering is required 
• Experience with insecticidal proteins, trait discovery, or agricultural biotechnology is highly desirable
• In-depth knowledge and proficiency in protein expression, purification and common characterization techniques
• Proficient in using bioinformatics tools.  Programming skills are a plus
• Proven track record of data-driven decision makings, trouble shooting, ideation and new scientific proposal development   
• Proven track record of driving research and collaboration across teams and project management experiences
• Ability to lead and drive progress by working in a multidisciplinary team
• Strong writing and oral communication and interpersonal skills, in both Chinese and English
• Self-motivated, hard working, multi-task, down-to-earth, mature and team-oriented

Additional Information

Note: 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, gender identity, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

 To learn more visit: www.syngenta.com