Meet Corteva’s Principal Biologist and Field Scientist: An interview with Rebecca Hilton
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Tell us a little bit about your role at Corteva?
I am based at our Global Research and Development Field Research Centre in Wellesbourne, Warwick. I have a split role as a Field Scientist and Principal Biologist. I am Principal Biologist for insecticides, nematicides, seed applied technology (SAT), specialty fungicides and biological control. As a Field Scientist, I get to conduct a multitude of field trials across all the disciplines of Crop Health R&D!
Can you describe your journey to becoming a Field Scientist at Corteva?
My first role was field station technician which involved supporting the Field Scientists and learning how to conduct high quality field trials whilst the company supported me to gain a MSc in Plant Pathology. I then became a Field Scientist being responsible for a full programme of trials. After a few years as a Field Scientist, I took on Principal Biologist responsibilities for insecticides and the rest of the programmes listed above.
Do you have a connection to agriculture outside of Corteva?
I grew up in Shropshire and worked on livestock farms, and for a racehorse trainer, before deciding to go to university to study biology.
What has been the most interesting project you've worked on at Corteva?
I am well known for taking on challenges of ‘unusual’ trials at the field station. Some of my favourite projects over the years have included: making compost to test herbicide residuality; raising colonies of insects to conduct resistance testing; testing nitrogen fixing technology in the soil; developing methods to get disease infected plants in glasshouses and conducting field trials in the dedicated soil-borne disease area.
How do you keep up to date with the latest advancements and trends in agriculture?
I am passionate about lifelong learning, and keep up to date by reading magazines, email newsletters from across the industry, as well as attending commercial shows.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to become a Field Scientist in the agricultural sector?
I would say always be curious and think outside the box. The future of agriculture relies on fresh minds and ideas coming into the industry. The work as a Field Scientist is varied and interesting, with a mixture of physical work outdoors in the field and intellectually challenging tasks like data analysis. I have never become bored as a Field Scientist.
Why would you recommend Corteva as a great place to work?
Corteva is a great employer which encourages innovation in its Crop Health Research and Development. We have a great pipeline of exciting new products in development, and it’s really encouraging and a privilege to play a part in developing solutions for the farmers of the future!
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.
