Principal Research Agronomist
Company: VM Agritech Inc
Location: Geneva
Posted on: February 16, 2026
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Job Description:
Job Description Job Description Benefits: 401(k) Competitive
salary Health insurance Paid time off Principal Research Agronomist
Location: Hybrid in US Reports To: Chief Chemist Employment Type:
Full-Time About VM Agritech (VMA) At VM Agritech, we develop
science-driven products that protect the health of plants, people,
and soil. Our innovations deliver powerful results without
compromising what matters. We provide solutions that are effective
against pathogens and supportive of healthier plants, people, and
ecosystems. Position Summary In approximately 15% of field trials
with Curezin fungicide and bactericide since 2022, weve observed
yield and quality improvements that we think outstrip their
attendant disease suppressions, even in several instances where
that disease suppression was excellent. For example, Curezin
generally achieved disease suppressions at least as good as a g.s.
while also provoking: 25% yield increases in peanuts vs g.s. 20%
yield increases in pistachios vs g.s. (also 120% of UTC) 10% yield
increases in snap beans vs g.s. (amounting to 150% of UTC) 9% yield
increases and qualitatively bigger potatoes when tank-mixed with
g.s. (140% vs UTC) Yield increases up to 20% in wheat vs UTC,
uniquely without achieving statistical disease control 20% yield
increases in grapes vs g.s. with no reduction in Brix Approximately
5% yield increases in RWSA/RWST from sugar beets either vs or when
tank-mixed with g.s. A qualitative bias toward more beans per pod
in soybeans Qualitatively bigger, ripe tomatoes in
disproportionately less growing time Qualitatively bigger, redder
strawberries With that foundation, we want a Principal Research
Agronomist on staff to originate an R&D program in novel
inorganic plant nutritional products. Key Responsibilities Develop
a clear, science-based explanation for the observed improvements in
crop yield and quality. This will include reviewing primary and
secondary scientific literature, evaluating VMAs intellectual
property, and designing additional experiments to build on existing
data, primarily through external collaborators such as field
trials, greenhouse studies, and on-farm demonstrations. Design and
iterate new plant nutrition products that complement and enhance
Curezin. Create comprehensive spray programs that optimize the
performance and use of Curezin and its derivative products.
Identify opportunities within those spray programs where existing
components can be replaced with new VMA-developed materials.
Produce original technical and regulatory documentation, including
patent applications, internal research reports, manufacturing
instructions, inspection plans, and product labels for new
products. Support sales and commercial teams by serving as the
technical subject matter expert for products developed through the
R&D program. Initially, the role will not include direct
reports; however, it is expected to evolve into a leadership
position. In the interim, you may supervise and mentor scientists
at various levels, as well as co-ops, interns, and summer
undergraduate researchers on an as-needed basis. Travel
approximately once per month to attend conferences and field days,
audit suppliers (including toll manufacturers and CROs), and visit
customers. Qualifications Education: A minimum of a baccalaureate
degree in a natural science is required. An advanced degree is
preferred, especially in agronomy, plant physiology, soil science,
or adjacent disciplines. Experience: A minimum of 15 years of
post-baccalaureate experience is required. Recent experience in
agrochemicals is preferred, especially in plant micronutrient
products. Benefits Highly competitive salary 401(k) with company
match Fully company-paid health, dental, and vision insurance
Flexible work arrangements and paid time off (PTO) Stock options
Remote position may require Hybrid work in the future This is a
remote position.
Keywords: VM Agritech Inc, Buffalo , Principal Research Agronomist, Science, Research & Development , Geneva, New York