Scientist III - Protein Chemistry and Enzymology - Decatur, IL
About The Position
ADM Research is seeking a Research Scientist with a strong background in Protein Chemistry, Enzymology, Organic Chemistry and biochemical transformations to join our Process Chemistry and Catalysis group in Decatur, IL. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of innovative enzyme-based processes for the conversion of agricultural feedstocks - including starch, oil, and protein-based materials—into high-value products. This role will collaborate closely with ADM’s Strain Engineering, Fermentation, Analytical, and downstream processing teams to drive advancements in enzyme applications, immobilization, and assay development. At ADM, you’ll have the opportunity to apply your scientific expertise to real-world challenges, advancing sustainable technologies that transform agricultural feedstocks into innovative products.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Organic Chemistry, Microbiology, Chemical/Biological Engineering, or a related field with 0–3 years of experience; or M.S. with 5+ years of relevant experience.
- Demonstrated expertise in protein chemistry, enzymatic transformations, enzyme expression, purification, and characterization.
- Strong understanding of enzyme kinetics, thermodynamics, and stability.
- Experience with a broad range of Bioanalytical instrumentation including FPLC, SDS-PAGE, Calorimetry (ITC, DSC, DSF), particle size analysis, Capillary Electrophoresis (CE), etc.
- Proficiency with chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques.
- Knowledge of safe handling of hazardous materials and compliance with safety and communication protocols.
- Proficiency with software for statistical analysis (JMP, Design Expert) and Microsoft Office applications (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).
- Ability to safely lift and manipulate reactor systems up to 50 pounds, move gas cylinders, and use hand or power tools as necessary.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in enzymatic process scale-up, enzyme downstream processing, and process design is desirable.
- Familiarity with molecular biology techniques and bench-scale fermentation is beneficial but not required.
Responsibilities
- Apply expertise at the intersection of Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Enzymology to advance ADM’s enzyme technology initiatives
- Lead and manage research projects from concept to completion, ensuring successful outcomes
- Support existing and emerging enzyme-based commercial programs through troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving
- Develop and optimize new enzymes and enzymatic processes for industrial applications
- Design and execute experiments using Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies and software tools
- Communicate research progress through verbal updates, written reports, and technical presentations
- Collaborate with colleagues with diverse skill sets across functional groups, and train or mentor more junior scientists
- Participate in safety reviews and promote a strong culture of laboratory safety.
- Occasional travel may be required.
Benefits
- competitive pay
- medical/Rx
- dental
- vision
- on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement
- flexible spending accounts
- health savings account
- 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan
- discounted employee stock purchasing program
- life insurance
- disability
- workers’ compensation
- legal assistance
- identity theft protection
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
- Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares)
- Paid time off
- paid holidays
- Adoption assistance
- paid maternity and parental leave
- Tuition assistance
- Company-sponsored training and development resources
- LinkedIn Learning
- language training
- mentoring programs
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
