Plant Health Scientist Nematologist

YOUR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

We are seeking a highly experienced Plant Nematologist to join our Plant Breeding team within the Crop Science R&D organization. This senior-level role requires demonstrated industry experience and deep expertise in nematode biology and management. Beyond technical excellence, the successful candidate will guide scientific and technical strategy for nematode-related research, ensuring alignment with global Crop Science priorities. The role will also serve as a connector across regions, fostering collaboration with internal and external experts to accelerate innovation and impact worldwide.

The primary responsibilities of this role, Plant Health Scientist Nematologist, are to: 

• Design, develop, and execute nematode-focused Plant Health trials for germplasm improvement and trait characterization in controlled environments and fields;
• Work across crops on high-throughput phenotyping, analytical, and genomic projects to accelerate nematode resistance screening and discovery;
• Develop and apply nematode risk assessment methodologies to inform Breeding and broader Crop Science strategies and communicate implications for product deployment, such as race shifts;
• Communicate research outcomes through peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and internal reports to inform decision-making and strengthen scientific leadership;
• Lead strategic projects to implement Precision Breeding innovations for nematode resistance, collaborating with Breeding and commercial teams to optimize germplasm improvement and product advancement;
• Serve as a global connector for nematode expertise, building networks with internal teams and external experts, harmonizing best practices, and driving integrated strategies across geographies;
• Collaborate with universities and research institutions on pipeline screening, including managing material transfer agreements;
• Integrate nematode research findings into broader agricultural initiatives within Crop Science R&D globally;
• Demonstrate creativity in problem-solving, applying advanced analytics and technologies to address complex nematode-related challenges;
• Support health, safety, compliance, and business conduct standards of the company.

WHO YOU ARE

Bayer seeks an incumbent who possesses the following:

• Master’s degree;
• Proven expertise in nematode biology, epidemiology, and integrated management strategies;
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing nematode screening protocols in controlled environments and fields;
• Strong background in data analytics and applied statistics for plant health and nematode data;
• Experience leading technical teams and collaborating across diverse functions;
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills;
• Ability to work in dynamic, cross-functional teams focused on delivering innovative solutions and operational efficiencies;
• Experience with high-throughput phenotyping and advanced breeding methodologies;
• Familiarity with global regulatory and compliance requirements for nematode research;
• Demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Nematology, or related field with a minimum of 5 years of industry experience, or Master’s degree with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience;

This posting will be available for application until at least 2/10/26.

Domestic relocation may be offered for this role.

Employees can expect to be paid a salary between $111,520.00 to $167,280.00. Additional compensation may include a bonus or commission (if relevant). Additional benefits include health care, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, sick leave, etc. This salary range is merely an estimate and may vary based on an applicant’s location, market data/ranges, an applicant’s skills and prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications, and other relevant factors.