Date of posting here May 21, 2008 Type of position full time Employer Syngenta Seeds, Inc Location Clinton, IL Salary DOE Closing date of competition 09/05/2008 Date position available 05/13/2008 Description of duties Role Purpose The purpose of the Soybean Trait Event Selection Manager is to define and manage, relative to specific trait, an efficient and robust transgenic event selection program utilizing lab, greenhouse, and field evaluations. The goal of the ESM is to provide results and recommendations for trait specific events as to their potential for commercialization, and further support regulatory activities to achieve commercial goals and timelines. Accountabilities Develop and manage an efficient and analytically detailed event selection program for Syngenta Soy Product development. The process should lead to selection of commercial events with maximal precision in the shortest possible time in order to meet aggressive commercial timeline goals. Recruit and manage trait conversion support personnel including both permanent staff and contract labor. Assist in development of annual project and functional budgets, and manage event selection function costs relative to planned costs. Continual interaction with Trait Head, SBI, CP, Seed RA, Trait Project Managers and Conversion Manager, and other functional groups relative to specific trait goals, timelines, trial types, QC requirements, etc. Plan and manage field trials both in-season and counter-season. Coordinate or perform lab or greenhouse assays as necessary. Plan and manage seed multiplication including sample collection for zygosity, QC, or other biochemical analyses. Develop and implement a plan to provide Regulatory groups with material for deregulation of traits. Manage and maintain up-to-date detailed project plans and summary files relative to event selection status and timeline goals. Work with Soy Trait summer nursery managers and winter nursery managers to plan and execute grow- outs of event lines for increase. Initiate initial trait line conversions relative to needs for event selection. This will involve close interaction with Trait Project Managers and Conversion Manager as these lines should feed initial trait product pipeline. Strictly adhere to all USDA and EPA Regulatory Compliance and Syngenta Stewardship as they apply including meticulous record keeping and retention policy. Function as site Soy Stewardship Officer relative to number 11 above. Manage all pertinent data collection, data transfer, data management and reporting for event selection activities. Qualifications sought Critical knowledge: A thorough knowledge of plant breeding and genetic methods. A thorough knowledge of soybean agronomy and genetics. Understanding of testing environments and herbicide and pest screening. General understanding of herbicide application methods helpful. General understanding of field and greenhouse trial design, and bioassay methodology. Working knowledge of molecular genetics and contemporary analytical as it pertains to transgenic plants and their breeding desired. Critical skills: Excellent organizational and planning skills. Excellent communication and team participation skills. Excellent problem solving skills. Ability to establish priorities and oversee multiple research activities simultaneously at peak work periods. Personnel management and development. Ability to use Microsoft Office, especially Outlook, Excel, and Word. Knowledge of MS Project a plus. Ability to use and support proprietary systems data and analysis (SPIRIT). Statistical design and analysis. Ability to work in a team and to communicate with individuals throughout the organization. Ability and motivation to learn new technologies. Ability to use professional concepts and company policies and procedures to solve a wide range of difficult problems in imaginative and practical ways. Ability to exercise judgment within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions. Critical experience: PhD in plant breeding, genetics, horticulture, or closely related field. MS with 5+ years of experience minimum. Demonstrated ability in greenhouse and field research process management Demonstrated ability to effectively manage and motivate staff and teams Experienced with herbicide and other trait screening and testing preferred Statistical design and analysis. Bioassay development. Application procedure   Submit what resume Submit to Qualified candidates should apply online at http://www.syngentacareers.com Additional Information EOE