R&D Research Associate

Louis Dreyfus Company • Livermore, CA

10h • Hybrid

About The Position

Perform basic biotechnology experiments and collect and record/ document research data in compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Plan, manage, execute plant protein research from bench to pilot scale following established procedures and protocols. Develop novel extraction techniques for plant proteins extraction. Active collaboration with product development, process engineering, and analytics to ensure the timely deliverables. Apply learning from patent landscape and public research to short, mid and long term in-house and external partner collaborative projects. Coordinate with scientists & senior scientists in generating innovative methods of plant proteins isolation and characterization process, and convert them into successful experimental plan and execution. Operating equipment’s to characterize proximate and functionality of a variety of plant protein sources. Data visualization and statistical analysis of experimental results as well as interpreting and communicating the finding of R&D team to the business unit.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, chemical engineering, or related field, with 2+ years of experience in similar fields, or Master’s degree in the above fields, with 1+ years of experience.
• Ability to sit, stand and walk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders as well as work at heights.
• Ability to work in confined spaces.
• Ability to work in a variety of temperatures and potential inclement weather.
• Ability to withstand extended periods of walking and standing.
• Ability to move manufacturing materials, products and equipment of 50 pounds or more, which requires bending and lifting.
• Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as is compliant with policies and procedures.
• Ability to work in fast-paced lab environments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with spreadsheet and word-processing software (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks to meet strict monthly deadlines.
• Proactively approaches job duties and potential problems.
• Detail oriented with strong organizational and documentation skills.

Nice To Haves

• Basic lab experience
• 2-4 years of previous job experience in a biotech or food tech industry is preferred.
• A genuine desire to work in plant-based ingredients and food space.
• Knowledge of basic protein chemistry and their extraction techniques, basic proximate characterization techniques.
• Understanding of QA/QC, microbial safety, and sensory properties of proteins and food products.
• Know-how in methods to characterize plant proteins and it’s use thereof in food and beverage systems using analytical methods such as rheology, texture analysis, particle size, SDS-PAGE etc., is preferred.
• Use of data visualization software (Power BI including), Microsoft office, LIMS is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic biotechnology experiments and collect and record/ document research data in compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Plan, manage, execute plant protein research from bench to pilot scale following established procedures and protocols.
• Develop novel extraction techniques for plant proteins extraction.
• Active collaboration with product development, process engineering, and analytics to ensure the timely deliverables.
• Apply learning from patent landscape and public research to short, mid and long term in-house and external partner collaborative projects.
• Coordinate with scientists & senior scientists in generating innovative methods of plant proteins isolation and characterization process, and convert them into successful experimental plan and execution.
• Operating equipment’s to characterize proximate and functionality of a variety of plant protein sources.
• Data visualization and statistical analysis of experimental results as well as interpreting and communicating the finding of R&D team to the business unit.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental and vision care coverage, flexible spending account plans, employee assistance program, life insurance and disability coverage
• 401k with Company Match
• Family Friendly Benefits including childbirth and parental leave, fertility and family building benefits
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees