Malta Lab Operation Lead

Company Description

Syngenta is a global leader in agriculture; rooted in science and dedicated to bringing plant potential to life. Each of our 28,000 employees in more than 90 countries work together to solve one of humanity’s most pressing challenges: growing more food with fewer resources. A diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace environment are enablers of our ambition to be the most collaborative and trusted team in agriculture. Our employees reflect the diversity of our customers, the markets where we operate and the communities which we serve. No matter what your position, you will have a vital role in safely feeding the world and taking care of our planet. Join us and help shape the future of agriculture.

The Malta Lab Operation Lead is accountable for setting up and maintaining our new, state of the art Syngenta Malta Genotyping laboratory. The lab is used to process the samples and produce NGS quality data to deliver the results to the customers according to the Global Genotyping Lab KPIs.

The Lab Manager’s responsibilities include staffing, budgeting, communication, and process improvement.

The incumbent will manage a team of a Lab Assistants in a high-throughput process for molecular analysis. The process includes tissue/samples reception, tissue disruption, DNA extraction/isolation, library preparation for two types of Sequencing processes (Skim sequence and Target Sequence tGBS).

The Lab Manager will receive help from the NA Genotyping team and from our Global Automation lead for equipment acquisitions and installation. The processes mentioned before are already in place in other Syngenta labs and we expect the manager to coordinate the transfer and adjustment of these processes.

Accountabilties

• Establish and monitor individual performance & development priorities, give timely and effective feedbacks, and strengthen Pause2Talk culture.
• Recognize and celebrate individual and team achievements
• Lead and develop Malta Genotyping Laboratory operations team to meet the demand and deadlines of projects with quality.
• Coordinate resources to hold each one accountable for the effective and efficient execution of their job assignments.
• Collaborate and contribute with Global Genotyping Networks and initiatives.
• Perform all activities in accordance with the Syngenta Health, Safety, Environmental Policy and Quality Management/Stewardship guidelines.
• Strengthen interaction with internal customers to understand their needs and deliver fit for purpose services.
• Identify and implement opportunities for improvement and innovation to increase the productivity and efficiency of the processes.
• Promote full engagement of the team with D&I, Compliance, HSE and Quality guidelines.
• Perform purchasing management to ensure that there will be no shortage of supplies for carrying out laboratory activities.

Note: this position is 100% onsite at our Malta, IL site.

Qualifications

• Understanding of budget management
• Knowledge in Genotyping technical platforms such as Sequencing based Genotyping platform, high throughput PCR platform, Real Time PCR, and Stewardship Quality Control for GM detection.
• Experience in high throughput lab equipment, automation and robotic solutions, and IT systems
• Ability to work under pressure
• Developing of work instructions/ SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) is preferred
• High energy and drive, with a positive, initiative-taking attitude
• Degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Biological Science or related field, and 5+ years professional experience in the area of Agriculture Biotechnology.

Additional Information

What We Offer:

• Open Vacation Policy with a minimum of 15 days of vacation and up to 30 days with manager approval, 9 Paid Holidays
• Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts the same day you do
• Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts among others
• A culture that promotes work/life balance, celebrates diversity, and offers numerous family-oriented events throughout the year
• 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution

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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