Research Scientist Agronomy

Position Purpose

The Research Scientist Agronomy is responsible for planning, coordinating, analyzing, and reporting agronomic research trials to support the development of new active ingredients and formulations in crop protection. The role involves close collaboration with internal cross-functional teams and external CROs to ensure high-quality data generation, robust statistical analysis, and timely delivery of insights across multiple projects and programs.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Responsibilities

• Remain at the cutting quality edge of agronomy and crop protection research relevant to new active ingredient (a.i.) field development.
• Continuously update personal knowledge, scientific expertise, and technical skill sets through literature review, training programs, and professional development initiatives.
• Proactively apply emerging scientific knowledge and innovative methodologies to improve trial design, execution, and data interpretation.

2. Operational Responsibilities

A. Trial Coordination and Execution

• Coordinate testing of new active ingredients against target insects, diseases, and nematodes across laboratory, greenhouse, and field environments.
• Manage and oversee trials conducted at domestic and international CRO locations in alignment with project objectives.
• Prepare detailed trial plans and protocols, and closely follow up with Product Development (PD) and MultiFunctional Teams (MFT) to ensure accurate trial execution.
• Plan and coordinate sample requirements, budgeting, and payments for Phase2 studies in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
• Monitor trial progress, ensure protocol compliance, and troubleshoot operational challenges as needed.

B. Data Analysis and Reporting

• Collect, validate, and manage trial data in a structured and timely manner.
• Perform statistical analysis of experimental data to derive meaningful insights and conclusions.
• Prepare highquality research reports, summaries, and presentations for internal decisionmaking and project reviews.
• Present trial results to cross-functional project teams and contribute scientifically to multiple projects and programs simultaneously.

3. Sample Logistics and Management

• Coordinate with crossfunctional departments for the preparation of formulated samples, including quantification reports, sample requests, labeling, packing, and dispatch.
• Ensure timely and accurate shipment of samples to national and international trial locations.
• Utilize digital sample management systems to ensure full traceability, inventory control, monitoring of sample movement, and compliance with regulatory and internal requirements.

4. Documentation and Knowledge Management

• Accurately document experimental findings in electronic notebooks (Signal/ARM), research reports, and internal publications.
• Maintain organized records to support knowledge dissemination, audits, intellectual property, and regulatory submissions where applicable.

5. Process Adherence and Continuous Improvement

• Adhere strictly to all safety, information security, quality, and compliance norms associated with research activities.
• Actively participate in process improvement initiatives aimed at increasing efficiency, data quality, and operational excellence under the guidance of the Director New Product Agronomy.

6. People and Collaboration Responsibilities

• Take ownership of personal professional development through continuous learning opportunities within and outside the organization.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues, CRO partners, and cross-functional teams to ensure timely achievement of research objectives.
• Contribute positively to a culture of scientific rigor, teamwork, and knowledge sharing.

Profile Requirements

Educational Qualification

• PhD / MSc in Agriculture or allied subjects (Plant pathology/Entomology/Crop Protection) or a related discipline.

Experience

• 2-10 years of post-academic industrial research experience
• Experience in agricultural field trials, crop protection research, or product development is preferred.
• Strong understanding of experimental design, statistics, and data interpretation.
• Capable for CRO management, sample logistics, and digital research systems is an advantage.

The Industry to be hired from

• Agro Chemical / Seed / Agriculture Universities or Institutes

Functional Competencies

• Subject knowledge of field development of crop protection products
• Crop Protection Market Knowledge
• Research experimental skills
• Project Management capability
• Data Compilation, analytical and interpretational skills

Behavioral & Leadership Competencies

• Drive for Result
• Process Adherence / System Orientation
• Customer focus
• Communication & Executive Presence in cross functional and cross hierarchical project matrix
• People Focus
• Scientific Business Acumen & Decision Making