Plant Pathologist - Corn

WHO WE ARE
GDM Seeds is a global leader in plant genetics, dedicated to transforming agriculture through technological innovation. With a continuous focus on research and development, we bring the most advanced and high‑performing seed varieties to the market, creating new growth opportunities for our partners and for the future of agribusiness.

Our North America portfolio includes leading brands like AgriGold®, DONMARIO®, Mustang™, PRIDE® Seeds, Revere®, and Virtue, supported by a network of research superstations, one of the largest corn genetic pools and the fourth-largest corn research program. Through our combined expertise, we continue to push the boundaries of innovation, delivering top-tier seed solutions to help farmers grow and succeed. GDM’s region-first brand model reinforces the company’s long-standing promise to deliver top-performing genetics and robust agronomic support - ensuring farmers have the right genetics, in the right place, at the right time.

OUR DNA

We are passionate about what we do and driven by curiosity. We believe that learning and innovation are the foundation for transforming the future of agriculture. Our focus is on cutting‑edge genetic development, creating solutions that make a difference in the field and in the global market.

Our DNA not only guides us but also connects us: we work with empathy, transparency, and respect, ensuring agile and flexible operations. Here, you are the protagonist of your career, because we believe every individual plays an essential role in building something greater.

If you are passionate about learning and want to be part of evolving agriculture, GDM is the right place for you!

We are proud to offer a competitive benefits package, which includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match (eligible 1st of the month following date of hire)
• Generous vacation time & paid holidays
• Volunteer Time Off
• Paid parental leave
• Tuition and Health Club reimbursement
• Other benefits: Company paid Long-term and short-term disability insurance, company paid life insurance and optional supplemental life insurance, health savings account (HSA) with a company contribution and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

GDM is an equal opportunity employer. We are proud to welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage you to apply.

Learn more about us at gdmseeds.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @GDMSeeds.

Job Summary:

Responsible for investigating, diagnosing, and managing diseases affecting corn crops. This role supports breeding, trait development, and agronomic programs by identifying disease threats, evaluating resistance, and developing integrated disease management strategies.

 

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Design and conduct pathology trials to evaluate disease resistance in corn germplasm.
• Identify and characterize fungal, bacterial, viral, and nematode pathogens affecting corn.
• Collaborate with breeding and trait integration teams to screen and select resistant lines.
• Develop and validate diagnostic tools for early disease detection and monitoring.
• Maintain pathogen cultures and inoculation protocols for controlled environment testing.
• Analyze disease incidence, severity, and environmental interactions using statistical tools.
• Provide technical guidance on disease management strategies for field and nursery operations.
• Contribute to regulatory submissions and stewardship documentation for disease-resistant traits.
• Ensure compliance with all safety protocols and promote a culture of safety across all activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong foundation in plant pathology, microbiology, and crop protection.
• Experience with corn diseases and pathogen identification techniques.
• Proficiency in molecular diagnostics (e.g., PCR, ELISA) and microscopy.
• Familiarity with experimental design, data analysis, and statistical software (e.g., R, SAS, Spotfire).
• Ability to work in field, greenhouse, and lab environments.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Strong documentation and reporting abilities.

Education and Experience:

• D. in Plant Pathology, Crop Science, or related field.
• Three (3) or more years of experience in corn pathology or crop disease research.
• Experience with disease resistance screening in breeding programs.
• Field expertise with molecular and diagnostic skills to enhance corn health and productivity.
• Knowledge of regulatory and stewardship requirements for disease traits.
• Must have valid driver’s license and meet MVR guidelines.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to travel up to 30%, some international travel is required.
• Ability to work extended hours outdoors during the entire growing season.
• Expect extended hours and varying weather conditions during peak planting and harvest seasons.
• Must be able to work safely in outdoor environments and around agricultural equipment.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.