Careers


Location: Des Moines, IA

Job Description

At Syngenta, our goal is to build the most collaborative and trustworthy team in agriculture, providing top-quality seeds and innovative crop protection solutions that improve farmers' success. We invite you to help shape the future of agriculture and play a role in safely feeding the world while caring for our planet. 

Syngenta's Analytics & Data Sciences team is seeking a Digital Phenomics Intern in Des Moines, Iowa. This internship provides practical experience applicable to careers in agricultural technology, plant sciences, or graduate research programs. You'll gain exposure to industry-leading phenotyping infrastructure and contribute meaningful insights to active breeding programs.

As part of Syngenta's Emerging Talent Program, you will gain hands-on experience, exposure to day-to-day business operations, and opportunities to apply your academic knowledge to real-world challenges while developing your professional skills.

Duration:  May 2027 – August 2027

Accountabilities 

  • Support phenotyping platform operations including sensor deployment, image acquisition, and field data collection across greenhouse and field environments.

  • Contribute to image processing workflows, trait extraction algorithms, and analytical pipeline optimization using advanced computational tools.

  • Lead an independent research initiative focused on phenotyping methodology validation or trait measurement innovation, culminating in a presentation to research leadership.

  • Partner with plant breeders, agronomists, and data scientists to integrate phenotypic insights into breeding decisions and product development.

  • Maintain detailed experimental records, standard operating procedures, and technical documentation to ensure reproducibility.


Qualifications

 

Required  

  • Currently enrolled as a graduate student in an accredited college/university.

  • Pursuing degree in Plant Breeding, Plant Science, Agronomy, Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Biology, Plant Pathology, Horticulture, Entomology, Weed science Crop Science, or related discipline.

  • Hands-on experience with agricultural research, remote sensing, field trials, or crop production systems beneficial.

  • Programming proficiency in Python and/or R for data analysis and visualization.

  • Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.

  • Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

  • Effective communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences.

ISU Research Park
The Iowa State University Research Park (ISURP) serves as a launchpad for startups, a growth center for scaling businesses, and an R&D hub for major corporations.

ISURP’s location provides direct access to 3,000 acres of contiguous university-owned test ground, offering unparalleled opportunities for ag-tech development, field trials, and large-scale research projects. The adjacent airport, robust infrastructure, and collaboration with Iowa State's BioCentury Research Farm (BCRF) create a unique environment where research seamlessly transitions to real-world application.

By fostering collaboration between industry leaders, Iowa State University, and emerging talent, ISURP plays a crucial role in building the workforce of tomorrow—right here in Ames, Iowa.
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