An interview with Eddie Bardsley, Principal Biologist & Zonal Biology Leader at Corteva Agriscience
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Tell us a little bit about your role at Corteva?
As the Zonal Biology Leader for pasture and land management in EMEA (Europe Middle East and Africa), I collaborate with a broad range of stakeholders, such as ecotoxicologists and formulation chemists, to manage resources and deliver projects. These projects range from new products like our clover-safe herbicide, ProClova® XL, to the renewal of existing products in the portfolio. My responsibilities include trial visits across the EMEA zone, fund management, dossier preparation, writing papers/articles and giving presentations. And a lot of meetings!
I am also the Principal Biologist for pasture and land management, biostimulants, and maize herbicides for the UK and Ireland. This part of my role involves trial visits, data validation, and dossier work, to name just a few aspects of the role.
Can you describe your journey to becoming a Principal Biologist/Zonal Biology Leader at Corteva?
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 five years at Eurofins which involved working on a huge variety of crops (from strawberries, apples and courgettes to cereals, grass and oilseed rape) and had the opportunity to help with trials in Thailand.
I wanted to make more of an impact and deepen my knowledge, so I started at Corteva managing contractor trials across the disciplines and carrying out some field trials. Over time I progressed to Principal Biologist and also worked as technical lead for one of our distributor customers. This is what lead me to where I am now, a Zonal Biology Leader.
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 innovative project you’ve worked on at Corteva?
There are lots of opportunities that arise at Corteva that both push and challenge you. A recent highlight has been my involvement in the launch of our new clover-safe herbicide, ProClova® XL, that enables weed control whilst preserving clover, which is very timely given the sustainability targets in play. This is one of the first projects I have been involved with, from early field trials to dossier preparation, right up to launch activities.
I was particularly thankful to have the opportunity to write and present a paper on our new herbicide at the International Grassland Congress which was held in the U.S.
How do you keep up to date with the latest advancements and trends in agriculture?
I like to listen to podcasts, watch webinars, read a few publications and books, and speak with colleagues. I attend meetings where possible to keep up my BASIS knowledge.
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, for example, is through carrying out field trials. This gives an excellent 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.
