Job description

You will:

• Provide the intern the opportunity of being exposed to the Seed Parent Characterization activities, allowing him/her to apply academic background and assist in the department activities from trial design, preparation, maintenance, harvesting, lab tasks, and data analysis 
• Develop a good understanding about new corn hybrid development, and parent characterization activities, by taking a lead role for one of the Seed Parent Characterization’s locations 
• Strengthen new product advancements through the assessment of important traits for seeds production  
• Take the lead on the project management and execution according to the assigned project. Assure that field activities (planting, plot maintenance, and harvest) for research plots are executed. This includes routine site/farm maintenance activities such as planting plots, applying treatments, collecting observations and in-season data, and maintaining the plots throughout the growing season.  
• Support other Seed Parent Characterization, as well as agronomic trial activities  
• Develop and maintain two-way communication with project managers, Seed Production Research (SPR) Scientists, Agronomists and Parent Seed colleagues. Additionally, look for communicating with people from different areas, from breeding all the way to commercial seeds production, aiming to gain a good understanding of the whole chain 
• Assist with managing and developing part time workers 
• Analyze data and prepare a report and presentation for the assigned project 
• Make sure all activities are developed according to the Company safety procedures and recommendations, and promote environmentally sustainable solutions 

Company Description

We invite you to help us shape the future of agriculture. At Syngenta, we believe every employee has a role to play in safely feeding the world and taking care of our planet. To support that challenge, the Seeds Production Research team is currently seeking a Seeds Production Research Parent Characterization Intern in Slater, IA. As an intern, you will be responsible for designing experiments, field and lab preparation, routine maintenance, and data analysis. You will be provided the opportunity of being exposed to research activities, allowing you to apply academic background and ultimately be exposed to both Production & Supply and Research & Development at Syngenta. 

As an intern at Syngenta, you have the opportunity to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry, and work on real projects finding real solutions. Work with us and you’ll get:  

• Competitive wages (hourly salary range of $21 - $40 per hour)
• Ongoing career development resources   
• The opportunity to work on meaningful, innovative projects that solve problems 
• A culture that celebrates diversity & inclusion, promotes professional development, and offers flexible work options to meet both your work and personal needs 

Estimated Duration: May 2025-August 2025

Qualifications

What you must have: 

• A High School diploma or equivalent 
• Enrollment in a Bachelor’s Degree program in Agronomy, Biology, Ag Business, or another closely related field of study with a graduation date of December 2025 or later
• Must be continuing education upon completion of internship term
• A valid Driver's License 

What you might also contribute to the team: 

• Prefer a student with a Sophomore or Junior standing  
• May be required to lift up to 30 pounds 
• Communication-The ability to communicate information well (both written and spoken) is highly desired 
• Detail Oriented-All procedures and policies must be understood and followed 
• Autonomous-An independent individual who is self-motivating and needs little supervision 
• Confidence- Not afraid to ask bold questions and be curious 
• Eagerness to learn and grow in the role  
• Previous internship and/or co-op experience related to Agriculture is preferred but not required 
• Familiarity with working on a farm, working with crops, or working outdoors is preferred but not required 

To apply:

Please click HERE to learn more and to apply online.

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.