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Meet the Principal Biologist and Zonal Biology Leader at Corteva: An Interview with Eddie Bardsley
Tell us a little bit about your role at Corteva?
In part of my role, I am currently the zonal biology leader for pasture and land management for EMEA. This role requires working with the wider European team from ecotoxicology to formulation chemists and requires managing resources effectively to deliver on projects which could be new products like our clover-safe herbicide which has been registered in Ireland or older products going through renewal e.g. Grazon® Pro. There will be trial visits across the EMEA zone, management of funds, number crunching, dossier preparation, bio-team meetings and possibly some paper / article writing and presentations. In the other part, I am principal biologist for pasture and land management, bio-stimulants and maize herbicides for the UK and Ireland. This requires working with contractors, the LPCT and European PBs. There will be trials visits, data validation and dossier work. There is also the chance to get involved in the wider LPCT activities e.g. product launches.
Can you describe your journey to becoming a Principal Biologist/Zonal Biology Leader at Corteva?
I am somewhat of an imposter (or so it feels at times). I started in field trials at EUROFINS knowing only that farming was carried out on farms. Having wanted a job that involved the outdoors my experiences before EUROFINS were largely focused on ecology surveys. The economy then crashed leaving many ecologists jobless and myself at the mercy of recruitment consultants. Fortuitously, EUROFINS needed a field trialist for herbicides and as I had some plant ID skills they gave me a chance. I spent 5 years at EUROFINS which involved working on a huge variety of crops (from strawberries, apples and courgettes to cereals, grass and oilseed rape) and also gave me the opportunity help with GLP trials in Thailand. EUROFINS was great but it felt like I was putting the icing on someone else’s cake, and I wanted to know more about making the cake. Hence, my application to join Corteva. I started at Corteva managing contractor trials across the disciplines and carrying out some field trials. As opportunities presented themselves, I started working closely with herbicide colleagues and preparing some data review presentations which lead to becoming OSR herbicides PB. I also managed, for a short time, to get involved in the tech lead side of things with Agrovista giving me some enjoyable experience with the commercial team. Eventually, I ended up with a full time PB role including OSR and the other disciplines I still manage and more recently to a ZBL role.
Do you have a connection to agriculture outside of Corteva?
I grew up near the sea with a few horses dotted about but fairly removed from agriculture. I am thankful I got the chance to work in agriculture as I find it fascinating, challenging and rewarding with everyday ‘a school day’. It is also humbling to realise how dependent it all is on the weather.
What has been the most interesting project you’ve implemented at Corteva?
There are lots of opportunities that arise at Corteva which each push and challenge you. One that sticks out is our new clover-safe herbicide which has been registered in Ireland, as it enables weed control whilst preserving clover which is very timely given the sustainability targets in play. Our new clover-safe herbicide which has been registered in Ireland is also one of the first projects I have been involved with from early field trials to dossier preparation to launch activities. I was particularly thankful to have an opportunity to write and present a paper on our new clover-safe herbicide which has been registered in Ireland at the International Grassland Congress which, luckily for me, was in the U.S.
How do you keep up to date with the latest advancements and trends in agriculture?
Working in the research side of things it is more difficult to attend meetings (and get the required number of BASIS points). I like to listen to podcasts, watch webinars, read a few publications and books and speak with colleagues.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to become a Principal Biologist/Zonal Biology Leader in the agricultural industry?
I would like to think that my journey to where I am now is proof that anyone can carve out a path in agriculture if they wish. Specifically for the principal biologist / zonal biology lead you need a good level of organisation and attention to detail. You also need to enjoy data and analysing numbers to obtain meaningful conclusions. Being curious helps as there are always results which don’t quite fit expectations and require further digging. I would also say that a great way to learn the different processes etc. is through carrying out field trials. This gives a great foundation and appreciation of where and how the numbers are getting to you.
Why would you recommend Corteva as a great place to work?
The people. I work across quite a few different teams and disciplines, and I find everyone I work with open, happy to help and easy to get along with. It is also evident how dedicated people are which further boosts motivation. I also like the fact that there are regular opportunities, and you are encouraged to broaden your experience.
If you are looking for a role with a difference, Corteva is the right choice, providing valuable learning experiences. Find out more about our talented team here.