Expert Spotlight: Franz Brandl, Ph.D.

In our Expert Spotlight series, we focus on our AgriThority® talent and the work they do. In their own words, you’ll learn about their global travels, and the crops, technologies and innovations they research.

Franz Brandl, Ph.D.

As Senior Research & Development Manager, EMEA, I work with all AgriThority® EMEA Region clients in protocol development and overall project planning.  My expertise is in optimal trial design and diligent execution for our clients. I am committed to obtaining the best results to draw sound conclusions and recommendations for next steps. Customer satisfaction is my priority.  

In my global R&D roles with Syngenta and legacy companies, I worked in all aspects of the seed treatment world; and, from 2016 to early 2020, I took over a product management role for most of the seed treatment fungicides with five crucial launches of new technologies to finish my Syngenta career. In 2008, I founded the Global Seedcare Institute Network, a global service unit for seed treatment customers with a focus on global, regional and local seed players. My passion for building relationships with customers and business partners led to a connection with AgriThority Founder and President Jerry Duff, and in 2020, I joined the AgriThority Board of Advisors. After more than a year on the Board of Advisors, I joined AgriThority as an Associate in late 2021. 

Growing up on my family farm made me curious about the process of growing – from planting seeds in the soil to managing the seedlings to harvest. My appreciation for the turning of the seasons, the main driver for agricultural production, has stayed with me to this day. After my schooling and military service, I studied agricultural science at the University in Kiel (Germany) and specialized in plant production, genetics, plant pathology, production technologies and economics. During my doctoral studies in phytopathology at the Technical University in Munich, I was involved in groundbreaking research on a new disease on barley (net blotch disease) which led me to connect with major chemical multinationals and engage in crop protection on a global basis.  

Innovation is a driver of success in the agricultural industry. I am constantly looking to find exciting new technologies and successfully bring them to market. While my core competency is in crop protection, I always absorb new information and learn about all aspects for successful and sustainable crop production. Doing my part to help feed a growing world population with  high-quality agricultural products, while preserving our environment, is important to me both personally and professionally.


Forward-thinking agriculture experts with deep scientific experience are the core of AgriThority®. As an independent global science consultancy, we focus on exploring potential, expanding market access and evolving production for greater food security and sustainability. When your Research is ready for Development, turn to AgriThority for scientific businessmarket and product expertise.