Satisfying Work With an Industry Leader

Liz Jones
Research Scientist

Liz Jones is a molecular geneticist who joined Pioneer in January 2002. Relocating from her home in Australia brought some challenges, but Liz loves the Iowa landscape and has found the work exciting.

Liz works as part of a team of 14 people within the Research organization whose job is to develop molecular markers called simple sequence repeats. These markers are "genetic fingerprints" and help characterize germplasm, provide pedigree analysis, and improve cultivars.

"Pioneer has a solid reputation for plant genetics and molecular breeding. In the plant biotechnology field, this is the company of choice," says Liz. "Aside from the work challenges I was looking for, the ethical reputation of Pioneer meant a lot, and was a big draw for me. I couldn't pass up the chance to work for an industry leader that is so highly regarded."

Liz has opted to experience rural Iowa, and calls home a two-acre spread with cherry trees and lots of grass. "It's great to live amongst the crops I'm working on. Driving past the cornfields on my way to work every day, I feel I'm contributing towards something bigger," she says. "I see the end results and know I'm making a difference."

Liz is enjoying her new home in the quiet countryside. "I do a lot of mowing," says Liz. "And my neighbors are wonderful - the best I've ever had."