Laboratory Automation Engineering Intern, Syngenta Genotyping

Syngenta Seeds is one of the world’s largest developers and producers of seed for farmers, commercial growers, retailers and small seed companies. Syngenta seeds improve the quality and yields of crops. High-quality seeds ensure better and more productive crops, which is why farmers invest in them. Advanced seeds help mitigate risks such as disease and drought and allow farmers to grow food using less land, less water and fewer inputs.

Syngenta Seeds brings farmers more vigorous, stronger, resistant plants, including innovative hybrid varieties and biotech crops that can thrive even in challenging growing conditions.

Syngenta Seeds is headquartered in the United States.

About the Role Launch your career with Syngenta Genotyping as a Laboratory Automation Engineering Intern! Join our dynamic team in creating innovative solutions that impact global agriculture.

Program Details

• Duration: 10-12 weeks (May-August 2026)
• Type: Full-time (40 hours/week), on-site position
• Location: Ames, Iowa
• Compensation: $21-$40 per hour

What to Expect

• Lead meaningful projects that directly impact Syngenta's Genotyping operations
• Present findings to Syngenta Genotyping team members
• Receive personalized mentorship from industry professionals
• Support and maintain various laboratory equipment and apparatus
• Participate in networking events, social gatherings, and team-building activities
• Gain exposure to high throughput laboratory operations and automated workflows

Key Responsibilities

• Spearhead and manage a summer-long impact project
• Assist with team-specific tasks and initiatives
• Participate actively in department meetings
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Identify and implement process improvements
• Create standard work documentation
• Present final project to Syngenta Genotyping leadership
• Maintain safety protocols and procedures
• Provide technical support and conduct experiments
• Prepare and present progress reports

Required Qualifications

• Current enrollment in an accredited college/university pursuing one of the following degrees:
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Related technical field
• Available for full-time work during May-August 2026
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with databases or LIMS systems
• Knowledge of 3D CAD software (particularly SolidWorks)
• Previous laboratory or research experience
• Programming experience (Python, R, or similar)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Capable of lifting up to 50 pounds
• Manual dexterity for laboratory equipment operation
• Visual acuity for detailed computer work and laboratory procedures

Key Competencies

• Creative thinking
• Independent work ethic
• Team collaboration
• Project management
• Multi-tasking ability
• Passion for scientific innovation

What We Offer: 

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. 

Syngenta has been ranked as a top employer by Science Journal. 
Learn more about our team and our mission here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVCN_51GbNI 

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