Associate Investigator

Who We Are and What We Do

At Corteva Agriscience, you will help us grow what’s next. No matter your role, you will be part of a team that is building the future of agriculture – leading breakthroughs in the innovation and application of science and technology that will better the lives of people all over the world and fuel the progress of humankind.

We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Investigator to join the Corteva Agrisciences Weed Management Discovery & Development team. This entry-level role will support the identification and characterization of novel herbicide solutions through hands-on execution of laboratory and greenhouse experiments. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists and cross-functional partners to generate high-quality biological data, maintain operational workflows, and contribute to early stage and development discovery efforts.

Key Responsibilities:

Experimental Execution & Support

• Execute laboratory and greenhouse assays to support herbicide discovery projects.
• Prepare test solutions, formulations, and experimental materials.
• Coordinate testing schedules and ensure timely availability of compounds and plant materials.

Plant Handling & Biological Evaluation

• Grow, maintain, and handle plant material (e.g., transplanting, sampling, scoring).
• Apply herbicide treatments using various application methods.
• Assess plant responses (e.g., injury, efficacy, phenotypic effects) and document results.

Data Collection & Documentation

• Record experimental observations accurately and consistently.
• Enter, organize, and maintain datasets in relevant systems.
• Communicate results and key observations to project teams.

Lab & Greenhouse Operations

• Maintain laboratory and greenhouse spaces, equipment, and consumables.
• Operate and support automated systems and instrumentation.
• Ensure readiness and reliability of experimental setups.

Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and troubleshoot plant growth or assay issues.
• Support optimization of assay workflows and throughput.
• Collaborate with scientists to refine experimental processes.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow and promote strong safety practices in laboratory and greenhouse environments.
• Ensure compliance with EH&S standards and procedures.

Team Collaboration

• Work effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment
• Support onboarding and training of contract or temporary staff.
• Contribute to overall team productivity and culture.

Qualifications:

Required Skills

• B.S. or B.A. in Biology, Plant Science, Weed Science, or a related field.
• Basic knowledge of plant biology and laboratory techniques.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Experience with data entry and standard software tools (e.g., Microsoft Office.)

Preferred Skills

• Hands-on experience with greenhouse or growth chamber studies.
• Familiarity with herbicide screening or plant phenotyping.
• Experience handling chemicals or preparing solutions in a lab setting.

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Benefits – How We’ll Support You:

• Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skills

• Be part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better place

• Health benefits for you and your family on your first day of employment

• Four weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidays

• Excellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and father

• Future planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement program

• Learn more about our total rewards package here - Corteva Benefits

• Check out life at Corteva! www.linkedin.com/company/corteva/life

Are you a good match? Apply today! We seek applicants from all backgrounds to ensure we get the best, most creative talent on our team.

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.