What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automation Scientist position at Corteva Agriscience?
Who are we, and what do we do?
At Corteva Agriscience, you will help us grow what’s next. As part of our team, you will contribute to building the future of agriculture—leading breakthroughs in science and technology that improve lives and fuel progress worldwide. Our Crop Health R&D Screening and Bioprocesses group is seeking a highly motivated Automation Scientist to join our Central Screening & Repository (CSR) Team at the Indianapolis Global Business Center. As an Automation Scientist, you will play a key role in enabling the discovery, development, and launch of our crop health pipeline. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to develop, optimize, and implement high throughput laboratory workflows and automation tools to support standard testing to test efficacy for discovery compounds. Your work will directly support the advancement of innovative crop health active ingredients and products.
What You’ll Do:
- Lead and support the implementation, operation, and maintenance of laboratory automation and high throughput screening tools (liquid handlers, plate readers, UPLC/MS, UV-vis, etc.).
- Provide mentorship and training to entry level scientists on operating automation equipment.
- Develop automation workflows to support sample preparation for requested bioassays.
- Prepare samples, conduct experiments, analyze data, and report results to data repositories.
- Troubleshoot and maintain laboratory instrumentation to ensure optimal performance and minimal downtime.
- Apply data analytical tools (SQL, VBA, Python, R, etc.) to manage, analyze, and visualize experimental data.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver on project goals and enable data-driven decisions.
- Support the development and optimization of new laboratory workflows, assay development, and process improvements.
- Maintain a strong commitment to safety and environmental responsibility in all laboratory activities.
- Document experimental results using electronic lab notebooks, report writing, and presentations to stakeholders using programs such as Signals.
What Skills You Need:
- BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Analytical Chemistry, Material Science, or related field.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and prioritization skills.
- Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and efficiency.
- Self-motivated, eager to learn, and able to drive results independently.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Proven experience in laboratory automation or high throughput screening is important.
- Strong expertise in liquid handling systems, plate readers, and data analysis software.
What Makes You Stand Out:
- Programming skills (C#, C , SQL, VBA, Python, or R) for laboratory data management and automation are highly desirable.
- Experience in chromatography and mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS).
- Knowledge of predictive modeling and advanced data analytics.
- Track record of supporting or leading technology development projects.
- 5 years’ experience in an automation lab is desirable.
- Experience with a Tecan liquid handler is desirable.
Join Corteva and Help Us Grow What’s Next!
If you are passionate about laboratory automation, high throughput science, and making a difference in agriculture, we encourage you to apply.
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.