UPL Limited (NSE: UPL & BSE: 512070, LSE: UPLL) is a global provider of sustainable agriculture products and solutions, with annual revenue exceeding $6bn. We are a purpose-led company. Through OpenAg®, UPL is focused on accelerating progress for the food system. We are building a network that is reimagining sustainability, redefining the way an entire industry thinks and works – open to fresh ideas, innovation, and new answers as we strive towards our mission to make every single food product more sustainable. As one of the largest agriculture solutions companies worldwide, our robust portfolio consists of biologicals and traditional crop protection solutions with more than 14,000 registrations. We are present in more than 130 countries, represented by more than 10,000 colleagues globally. For more information about our integrated portfolio of solutions across the food value chain including seeds, post-harvest, as well as physical and digital services, please visit upl-ltd.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Job Summary:

UPL’s New Ag Tech team has an immediate opening for a Scientist in Plant Pathology at its new OpenAg Center in Research Triangle Park, NC. The successful candidate will be a key member of the New Ag Tech global team reporting to the Global Research Lead for Plant Pathology focusing on plant pathology and efficacy of materials of conventional and biological origin against a wide range of fungal and bacterial plant pathogens, either applied as a seed treatment or above-ground application. UPL’s Vision is to be an icon for technology growth and innovation. We support innovative solutions to complex challenges.. The incumbent will have an opportunity to assess activity and related properties of both synthetic and natural materials against plant pathogens to help assess their fit in UPL’s future portfolio of products to manage disease caused by plant pathogens. The incumbent will also contribute to experiment method development, fungal colony maintenance, and general functions in the lab.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with fellow scientists in NAT’s Plant Pathology and Seed Treatment laboratory teams to deliver on the agreed upon research objectives.
• Contribute to scheduling and aligning the needs of assigned experiments, with the support of the team, to maximize the probability of success and maintain agile and meaningful data production in the laboratories.
• Constantly communicate with the lead scientist and NAT Plant Pathology Lead, to assist in alignment of the work in laboratories and greenhouse, addressing the needs and priorities as they evolve and change.
• Bring experience, ingenuity and creativity into the laboratory and into the teams to assist in designing experiments that address the challenges posed by the research objectives.
• Maintain open communication and a spirit of collaboration with other New Ag Tech labs and divisions within UPL
• In collaboration with the Plant Pathology Lead Scientist, manage the evaluation of new technologies based on experience
• Contribute to a clean and safe working space in the plant pathology and seed treatment labs
• Keep track of laboratory inventory and work with lead scientist in timely ordering needed supplies
• Work with the greenhouse team to ensure a continuous and secure plant and tissue supply for research

• As needed, collaborate with the seed treatment team by assisting with seed treatment activities, and conducting select experiments covering both plant pathology and seed treatment needs.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with at least 2 years relevant experience required or M.Sc. in plant pathology, microbiology, agronomy, botany, or related discipline from an accredited college or university
• Working knowledge of seed treatment application and techniques, knowledge of pathogens affecting seed and seedling health
• Experience with sterile technique and conducting experiments in lab and greenhouse with plants and pathogens.
• Understanding of applied statistics and implementation to experimental data interpretation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office environment and willingness to learn company-specific software.
• Excellent communication skills, both orally and written.
• Ability to work in greenhouse conditions and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work with biologicals and chemicals of unknown toxicity and follow safety procedures.
• Ability to work in a team or individually
• Exhibit strong time management and organization skills.
• Ability to work in the United States on an on-going basis without sponsorship.

Location: Research Triangle Park, NC

KEY COMPETENCIES:

RESULTS ORIENTATION: Strong capability in focusing on tasks and results to achieving goals, solving problems, maintaining productivity, and making fast decisions by using a critical thinking approach.

BEING RESILIENT – Ability to manage crises and volatile situation effectively. Should be able remain objective and calm and show positive attitude & strong judgement when faced with adversity

CULTIVATES INNOVATION - Thinks creatively and implements solutions for everyday problems; Strives to continually improve own processes and areas of business; Puts forward proposals and develops strategic implementation plans to introduce new and improved ways of operating.

INTERPERSONAL IMPACT - Ability to bring together divergent views, develop consensus, and maintain credibility skill at building networks and an ability to engage with people from other parts of the world.

RESOURCEFULNESS – Identifying, Securing & Deploying resources effectively & efficiently (People, funds, infrastructure) to accomplish a goal

Travel: Domestic or international? % required? <10%

We are one team, for maximum impact. One team with shared goals. We all play for the team and no one plays against the team. We have a laser-like focus on what our customers need and want, on anticipating their future needs and on how we can create innovative solutions and experiences for them.

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