Principal Scientist I Crop Protection Research Chemistry (m/f/d)

Company Description

Syngenta Group, a global leader in agricultural technology and innovation, employs 60,000 people across more than 100 countries to transform agriculture through tailor‑made solutions for farmers, society, and our planet.

Our diverse portfolio encompasses seeds, crop protection, nutrition products, agronomic solutions, and digital services, all designed to help farmers produce healthy food, feed, fiber, and fuel while conserving natural resources and protecting the environment.

Our mission is to address critical challenges such as climate change and food security through sustainable practices and cutting‑edge solutions, while safeguarding the planet's resources.

At our R&D Center in Stein AG, Switzerland, the Crop Protection Research (CPR) Chemistry team is at the forefront of innovation.

Here, you will design and synthesize novel products that promote crop health and contribute to the evolution of agricultural practices.

Your work will play a crucial role in advancing our mission to ensure global food security through sustainable solutions.

Syngenta has been ranked as a top employer by Science Magazine and it has been awarded with the "Friendly Work Space" label to all its Swiss sites.

Job Description

• Lead and contribute to research projects, applying state‑of‑the‑art research programs to identify and optimize novel bioactive ingredients interacting with relevant biological targets for crop protection.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams with local and global experts to drive research programs to develop sustainable crop protection solutions.
• Advance project delivery through scientific investigations, applying expertise in molecular design, physical organic chemistry, and synthetic problem‑solving.
• Formulate and experimentally test data‑driven hypotheses, deconvolute complex structure–activity relationships (SAR) by integrating empirical and predictive data to drive Multi‑Parameter Optimization toward key project milestones
• Drive scientific advancement and technological innovation in modern agrochemical discovery by proactively developing and applying cutting‑edge skills and technologies, while fostering a culture of continuous learning, creativity, and strategic foresight.
• Embed digital, data, and AI capabilities into project workflows to accelerate discovery and improve predictive decision‑making.

Qualifications

What we are looking for

• Scientific Foundation: Ph. D. in Organic Chemistry or Medicinal Chemistry; postdoctoral or industry experience is an advantage.
• Technical Expertise: Deep expertise in synthetic organic chemistry; direct application to bioactive small molecule research is strongly preferred and highly valued.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Leadership: Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated success in steering multidisciplinary scientific teams, driving consensus, and delivering project milestones across complex matrix environments.
• Innovation Mindset: Self‑driven and curious, with a proactive approach to adopting emerging technologies and advancing project goals.
• Communication: Excellent command of English, adept at conveying complex scientific findings to diverse technical and non‑technical audiences.

What you bring to our team

• Technical curiosity for life sciences, including small molecules and new chemical modalities.
• Enthusiasm for applying and championing cutting‑edge science and digital technologies.
• Creativity, curiosity, and strong decision‑making skills with a commitment to continuous learning.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities
• Collaborative mindset with strong communication skills to build productive relationships within Syngenta and with international collaborators
• Dedication to welcoming different perspectives and fostering a diverse, inclusive and open work environment
• Additional Information
• We provide access to state‑of‑the‑art research facilities and technologies, enabling you to apply and expand your expertise in agrochemical design principles, synthetic organic chemistry, and active ingredient optimization.
• We cultivate a superb working environment with an open culture and diverse workforce, where new ideas are always welcome.

We embrace flexible work arrangements and foster work‑life balance.

• We foster a digitally enhanced research environment throughout our R&D processes.

This offers you the opportunity to develop digital data analysis skills, positioning you at the forefront of drug discovery.

• We invest in your professional growth and development through a multidisciplinary training program tailored to foster a rewarding career in crop protection.
• We are part of a strong regional Science hub, offering you the opportunity to interact with a rich community of scientists in life sciences, further enhancing your professional network and knowledge exchange.
• 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…)

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.

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