GDM Seeds, a global leader in plant genetics and agricultural innovation, is actively hiring a Research Associate I in Boone, Iowa. This full-time, on-site role is a powerful opportunity for agronomy and agriculture science professionals to execute corn and soybean field research trials, manage seed inventory, operate advanced field equipment, and contribute directly to one of the largest corn research programs in North America. If you are driven by science and passionate about the future of farming, this is your role.
About GDM Seeds — North America’s Plant Genetics Powerhouse
Global Position: World-leading plant genetics company transforming agriculture through technology and innovation
Brands Portfolio: AgriGold®, DONMARIO®, Mustang™, PRIDE® Seeds, Revere®, and Virtue
Research Strength: Fourth-largest corn research program and one of the largest corn genetic pools in North America
Network: Nationwide network of research superstations delivering genetics tailored to regional farming needs
Commitment: Region-first brand model ensuring top-performing genetics in the right place at the right time
Competitive Benefits & Employee Perks
Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for all full-time employees
Retirement: 401(k) with company match — eligible from 1st of month following hire date
Time Off: Generous vacation, paid holidays, and Volunteer Time Off (VTO)
Family Support: Paid parental leave for growing families
Education & Wellness: Tuition reimbursement and Health Club reimbursement programs
Insurance: Company-paid long-term and short-term disability, life insurance, HSA with company contribution, and FSA
Position Overview
The Research Associate I at GDM Seeds is responsible for executing operational and testing activities at corn and soybean research sites across Boone, Iowa. This role directly supports the planning, implementation, and maintenance of field trials — ensuring accurate data collection, proper seed inventory management, and the safe operation of research equipment. The position also contributes to overall research program success through strong cross-functional collaboration, quality standards adherence, and strict safety compliance throughout every growing season.
Why This Role Matters: As a Research Associate at GDM Seeds, you contribute to cutting-edge corn and soybean genetics research that shapes the future of global agriculture, work with one of North America’s largest corn research programs and genetic pools, gain hands-on experience with advanced field research equipment including planters, sprayers, and combines, support data-driven decisions that help farmers grow more efficiently worldwide, and build a rewarding career at a company where every individual plays an essential role in agricultural innovation.
Key Responsibilities
Field Trial Execution & Crop Research
- Participate actively in seed packaging, planting, pollinating, note taking, harvest, and shelling operations
- Support field experiment setup and full execution including site preparation, scouting, spraying, and timely harvest
- Contribute to the planning and maintenance of corn and soybean research trials across multiple sites
- Ensure accurate and reliable data collection throughout every stage of field research activity
Seed Inventory & Research Equipment Management
- Maintain accurate seed stock inventory and ensure proper storage conditions at all times
- Operate field research equipment including planters, sprayers, and combines safely and efficiently
- Monitor equipment performance and report any maintenance needs to the research team promptly
- Ensure proper labeling, handling, and tracking of all seed varieties throughout the research cycle
Team Supervision & Training
- Supervise and train seasonal employees to ensure safe and productive field operations
- Promote a culture of safety by adhering to and championing company safety standards at all times
- Collaborate effectively within cross-functional research teams across multiple departments
- Represent the company and research team positively in all internal and external interactions
Data Integrity & Quality Standards
- Contribute to maintaining and continuously improving research quality standards across all field activities
- Utilize software tools for data collection, analysis, and record management during the growing season
- Maintain excellent organizational and record-keeping practices to support accurate research outcomes
- Prioritize tasks effectively to meet research deadlines in a fast-paced seasonal environment
Qualifications & Requirements
Educational Requirements
- Associate degree in Agronomy or a closely related field — required minimum
- Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Plant Science, or Agriculture is strongly preferred
Experience Requirements
- Prior experience in agricultural research or field operations is a significant advantage
- Must hold a valid driver’s license and meet company Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) guidelines
- Ability to travel approximately 40 nights per year, including occasional weekends during peak seasons
Essential Skills
- Strong collaborative ability to work effectively within cross-functional research teams
- Excellent organizational, time management, and record-keeping skills for field data accuracy
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office — Outlook, Word, and Excel — for daily research operations
- Physical ability to lift up to 60 lbs and work extended hours outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Willingness to learn and utilize software tools for data collection and agricultural research analysis
About GDM Seeds
GDM Seeds is a globally recognized plant genetics company committed to transforming the future of agriculture through relentless research and innovation. With an impressive North American portfolio featuring brands like AgriGold®, DONMARIO®, and PRIDE® Seeds, GDM operates one of the continent’s largest corn research programs and genetic pools. Their research superstations and region-first model ensure that farmers across the United States and beyond always receive the highest-performing seed genetics for their specific growing conditions.
Career Excellence: At GDM Seeds, you are more than an employee — you are the protagonist of your own career in one of the world’s most impactful agricultural science organizations.
Who Should Apply?
Iowa-Based Agriculture Candidates: Looking for competitive benefits and long-term career growth in plant science research
Agronomy Graduates: With associate or bachelor’s degrees seeking hands-on corn and soybean research careers
Field Research Technicians: With prior agriculture field operations or seed research experience
Agriculture Science Professionals: Passionate about plant genetics, crop research, and data-driven farming innovation
Seasonal Agriculture Workers: Ready to step into a full-time research role with a global genetics leader
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