Research Investigator


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Job Title: Research Investigator
Location: Indianapolis, IN, Midwest United States, USA

Company: Corteva
Industry Sector: Agribusiness
Industry Type: Chemical, Pesticide and Fertilizer
Career Type: Researcher/Research & Development
Job Type: Full Time
Salary: Competitive
Job Description:

The Advanced Field Science Technology Engineering & Validation Specialist Sr. leads beta testing, readiness assessments, and tech scouting for new technologies that support data capture, automation, and characterization across global Integrated Field Science R&D . This role applies deep technical expertise to evaluate system performance, identify deployment risks, and ensure tools are aligned with science workflows and operational requirements. The Specialist plays a key role in scouting emerging technologies, coordinating subject matter experts, translating feedback into actionable improvements, and enabling smooth transitions from pilot to deployment. 

Technology Scouting & Evaluation 

  • Scout and assess emerging technologies with potential to enhance R&D workflows and scientific capabilities. 

  • Engage with external partners, vendors, and innovation networks to identify promising tools and platforms. 

  • Contribute to scouting briefs and strategic recommendations that inform validation priorities. 

Technology Testing & Validation 

  • Design and execute beta testing protocols for new tools across lab, field, and controlled environments. 

  • Evaluate system performance, reliability, and usability against defined success criteria. 

  • Document testing outcomes and provide recommendations for production deployment. 

Technical Readiness & Risk Mitigation 

  • Identify potential risks related to sourcing, integration, and operational deployment. 

  • Develop and implement corrective actions and contingency plans to ensure readiness. 

  • Collaborate with engineering and deployment teams to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues. 

Customer Workflow Alignment 

  • Ensure testing reflects real-world use cases and end-user workflows. 

  • Translate technical performance into user-relevant benefits and operational impact. 

  • Partner with internal teams to refine testing protocols and align with business priorities. 

SME Network Coordination 

  • Lead coordination of subject matter experts across geographies and functions to accelerate validation efforts. 

  • Facilitate knowledge sharing and documentation of best practices and lessons learned. 

Feedback Loop & Continuous Improvement 

  • Capture and synthesize user feedback during pilot phases. 

  • Translate insights into actionable improvements for engineering, product, and deployment teams. 

  • Contribute to iterative refinement of tools, scouting criteria, and testing strategies. 

What Skills You Need:

  • Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in agricultural engineering, applied science, or a related technical field preferred. 
  • 4+ years of experience in agricultural engineering validation, product testing, scientific systems integration, or tech scouting. 

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.

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Job Post Date: 04/01/26
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Career Type: Researcher/Research & Development
Country: USA

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