Field Scientist

POSITION PURPOSE:

Act as a lead scientist in Herbicide Discovery & Development, responsible for identifying, assessing, and developing novel scientific concepts, technologies, and disruptive approaches for weed control in Brazil and Latam. This role requires a highly innovative mindset, with strong drive to improve processes, challenge the status quo, and consistently deliver beyond expectations, contributing meaningfully to the advancement of Corteva’s global herbicide pipeline.
The position plays a key role in defining scientific strategies, developing hypotheses, managing early stage development projects, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and may include technical and/or people leadership responsibilities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

•    Identify, propose, and develop new scientific concepts, mechanisms of action, and technologies for weed control, from ideation through early development stages.
•    Define experimental approaches, develop scientific hypotheses, and lead studies conducted in greenhouse, field, and laboratory environments.
•    Manage and lead Herbicide Discovery & Development projects, coordinating technical resources, support teams, and cross‑functional interfaces.
•    Act with a disruptive and innovative mindset, continuously improving experimental processes, trial designs, workflows, and use of analytical and digital tools.
•    Evaluate new active ingredients, combinations, formulations, and application strategies with a focus on efficacy, selectivity, sustainability, and technical feasibility.
•    Work closely with Biology, Chemistry, Formulation, Development, Regulatory, Intellectual Property, and Data Science teams.
•    Actively contribute to the development, prioritization, and execution of a robust and competitive herbicide innovation pipeline.
•    Establish and maintain external scientific collaborations with universities, research institutions, startups, and technology partners.
•    Represent Corteva in scientific forums, conferences, and technical committees, strengthening the Company’s reputation as an innovation leader.
•    Ensure high‑quality scientific and technical documentation, maintaining traceability, compliance, and adherence to global standards.

QUALIFICATIONS:

•    Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy and Agricultural Engineering
•    MSc or PhD in Weed Science or Crop Science applied to Weed Science.
•    Proven experience in applied scientific research, preferably in herbicide discovery and/or development.
•    Strong knowledge of weed biology, herbicide modes of action, selectivity, resistance, and integrated weed management.
•    Demonstrated experience conducting experiments in field, greenhouse, and laboratory settings.
•    Advanced analytical skills for data interpretation and use of statistical tools, as well as artificial intelligence tools. 
•    Advanced English proficiency; Spanish is a plus.
•    Highly innovative, proactive, and collaborative profile, with strong technical communication skills.
•    Experience or demonstrated potential for technical or project leadership within an R&D environment.
•    Active CREA.
•    Driver's License, Category B.
 

Corteva Agriscience is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to embracing our differences to enrich lives, advance innovation, and boost company performance. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, military or veteran status, pregnancy related conditions (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), disability or any other protected status in accordance with federal, state, or local laws.