Scientist I, Benchtop and Pilot-Scale Fermentation - Decatur, IL

Archer Daniels Midland•Decatur, IL

30d•Onsite

About The Position

ADM is seeking a Scientist I, Benchtop and Pilot-Scale Fermentation to support fermentation research and development activities at the 7.5 L to 100 L scale within our Decatur-based R&D Center. This role will contribute to the validation of new production strains, as well as the scale-up, scale-down, optimization, and troubleshooting of fermentation processes across yeast, bacterial, and fungal systems. The successful candidate will execute experimental plans, operate and maintain fermentation systems, collect and analyze process samples, document results, and communicate findings to technical leaders and project teams. This position requires strong aseptic technique, attention to detail, a commitment to safety, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative R&D environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in fermentation science, microbiology, biochemical engineering, biotechnology, biology, chemistry, or a related scientific discipline; or equivalent hands-on fermentation experience
2–3 years of relevant laboratory, fermentation, bioprocessing, or pilot-scale experience preferred for candidates without a directly related degree
Ability to execute detailed experimental protocols with accuracy, consistency, and attention to detail
Working knowledge of aseptic technique and laboratory safety practices
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks, priorities, and timelines
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based, multidisciplinary R&D environment
Self-motivated with the ability to work independently under general technical direction
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work comfortably in a pilot laboratory environment

Nice To Haves

Hands-on experience operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining benchtop and pilot-scale fermentation equipment
Experience with industrial biotechnology, microbial fermentation, or bioprocess development
Familiarity with media preparation, sterilization, inoculum development, fermentation sampling, process monitoring, and contamination control
Experience working with yeast, bacterial, or fungal fermentation systems
Familiarity with fermentation process parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, agitation, aeration, temperature, feed strategy, and foam control
Experience contributing to scale-up, scale-down, technology transfer, or process improvement efforts
Experience with laboratory documentation, batch records, SOPs, and data reporting
Demonstrated ability to support projects that deliver technical and business value

Responsibilities

Execute benchtop and pilot-scale fermentation experiments at the 7.5 L to 100 L scale in support of R&D and process development projects
Set up, operate, monitor, sample, clean, and maintain fermentation systems and related laboratory equipment
Follow experimental protocols, standard operating procedures, and safety requirements to ensure consistent, high-quality execution
Apply strong aseptic techniques during media preparation, inoculation, sampling, transfers, and equipment handling to minimize contamination risk
Record experimental conditions, process parameters, observations, deviations, sample data, and results accurately in batch records, laboratory notebooks, experimental summaries, or other required documentation
Perform routine sample analysis and support data interpretation to evaluate fermentation performance and process outcomes
Troubleshoot fermentation processes, equipment issues, and operational challenges; recommend and implement corrective actions as appropriate
Support the development, improvement, and documentation of fermentation protocols, SOPs, Job Safety Analyses, and best practices
Perform basic maintenance, calibration checks, and routine inspections on fermentation and laboratory equipment
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory and pilot-plant workspace, including supply and material inventory management
Interpret experimental results, draw conclusions, and provide recommendations to project technical leads
Communicate progress, results, risks, and issues effectively with technical leaders, project teams, and cross-functional stakeholders
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to fermentation execution, process efficiency, data quality, documentation, equipment reliability, and laboratory safety