At SynTech Research, we are making an impact every day in science, technology, and innovation. In this 5 part special Women’s Day edition of Good Place to Work interviews, we’re sharing firsthand perspectives from women across SynTech Research. Each interview highlights their journeys, challenges, and achievements—offering insight into their careers and advice for future generations.
We are excited to feature Eva Garzón, Ecotoxicology and Insecticide Screening Lead at SynTech Research in Spain.
What is your background?
I am the Ecotoxicology coordinator in Spain, with Agronomic Engineering Degree and Master degree in Vegetable Production as well as Master in Environmental Toxicology and Risk assessment. I became Ecoxicology Study Director in 2009, with 15 years of experience at SynTech, I now work leading Ecotox and Insecticide Screening Areas.
What inspired you to pursue a career in agricultural research and STEM?
My family was linked to agriculture and was passionate about nature and science. I was specially interested in what had been done in previous research linked to what I observed. The possibility to be part of it was the inspiration.
Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped your path in the industry?
I worked at University without funding, for months, I clung to the idea of continuing in the academy, because it was the path that made sense to me. Because after so much effort and work, it was what I thought I should do. I tried SynTech and, after a brief period as assistant, I was called by a Research Institute, they were both similar research but with different submission deadlines for the projects, I decided to bet on the industry and choose my own path at SynTech Research.
What excites you the most about working in agricultural research?
The most important thing for me is taking part of research when testing new substances which evolves new challenges so that you need to adapt the design, consider the different proposals for testing or even taking part of working groups for new guidelines.
The agricultural research sector has traditionally been male-dominated. Have you seen changes in gender representation over time?
Definitely, I have observed that rural women’s entrepreneurship has experienced growth in recent years, with more women betting on innovation to gain a foothold in the agri-food sector. The presence in agriculture and research is becoming more and more noticeable, leading agricultural and environmental research in some areas.
How do you think SynTech Research is fostering diversity and inclusion?
With space for opening dialogue to get better understanding between diverse team members.
Have you had strong female role models or mentors in your field?
I had very important female role model in my life who taught me about commitment and responsibility that came from my mother, values I appreciate in my managers and team. My day by day at SynTech was and is influenced by all the women working there before and now, we have an important women presence from whom I can learn everyday.
What advice would you give to young women interested in STEM, particularly in agricultural research?
To be honest with them, choose the path you may really know you have options, once you have chosen do not leave things half done, perseverance is the key in research.
Eva recently attended Primary school CEIP Baladre in Picanya, Valencia, to talk to 5th and 6th graders about working in Research and Ecotoxicology.
How do you stay motivated in a field that is constantly evolving with new discoveries and technologies?
Actually, this is what makes me interested, new challenges lead me to stay motivated.