Lead Research Scientist-Crop Protection

New Castle, DE, United States of America

Croda is a FTSE
100 organization driven around our purpose of Smart Science to Improve Lives™. With over 6,000 employees across 39 countries, we are focused on the research and development of novel and highly sustainable raw materials for the Life Sciences and Consumer Care sectors.

We are passionate and excited about how we can develop and utilize new technologies to shape and inspire changes within an ever-growing marketplace. As our business looks to deliver its ambitious strategy of growth, we are looking for a Lead Research Scientist to join our agriculture R&D team.

In this role, you will drive scientific discoveries and lead innovation programs, transforming ideas into breakthrough technologies that deliver value for customers and support Croda’s long‑term agriculture strategy.

You will be responsible for leading research programs, driving scientific innovation, and delivering new technologies that support business growth of our agriculture portfolio.

Be part of a team that values diversity, sustainability, and continuous innovation, where your ideas and contributions matter. Responsible for maintaining quality standards in the department.

• Lead and execute research programs aligned with Croda’s innovation and sustainability priorities.
• Design and deliver high‑quality experiments to develop new technologies and solutions for our crop protection program.
• Provide technical leadership and mentor scientists, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.
• Partner cross‑functionally to translate research into scalable, market‑ready innovations.
• Analyze complex data and communicate insights to drive decision‑making.
• Identify emerging opportunities to strengthen Croda’s innovation pipeline.

At Croda, we believe our people are the heart of our success. We are committed to fostering an environment where you can grow, make a meaningful impact, and thrive.

• Strong experience in agriculture innovation, crop protection or applied research.
• Proven ability to lead projects and deliver scientific outcomes with business impact.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Passion for sustainability and translating science into real‑world impact.

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or Master’s) in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related discipline.

Join a global organization with countless opportunities for growth and leadership.

The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary and benefits package including:

• Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, available immediately.
• Wellness Reimbursement.
• Parental Leave.
• Company paid and voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance.
• Short‑ and long‑term disability.

This is a full‑time position at our New Castle, Delaware location.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the hiring process or experience any issues with our online application process, please email

Croda recognises employees as our strength and the diversity they bring to our workforce are directly linked to our ongoing success. We are an equal opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate based on any protected attribute, including age, race, colour, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law.

In accordance with applicable law, we make reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as any mental health or physical disability needs.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veterans. This Organization Participates in E-Verify.