Research Chemist

MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES

As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 32 countries, we offer a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods.

Crete Analytical Laboratory – Regular (US Only)

We are looking for a Research Chemist at 3600 Eagle Nest Dr, North Building, Crete, IL 60417 USA. Your mission will be to conduct chemical and analytical testing on food products, ingredients, and formulations to ensure quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. This role involves developing and optimizing analytical methods, troubleshooting formulation challenges, and supporting innovation in product development. The position requires project ownership and management as well as mentoring junior chemists in analytical testing procedures.

It serves as a technical resource for complex analyses and supports the building of a strong team of analytical professionals.

• Perform testing for nutritional labeling, contaminants, toxins, preservatives, additives, and other food components in compliance with regulatory standards (FDA, USDA, AOAC, ISO, HACCP, etc.).
• Lead study design for the verification and validation of new chemistry methods, including data evaluation to determine next steps with minimal support.
• Independently perform method feasibility, verification, and validation of new and novel methods.
• Maintain laboratory instruments, perform minor repairs, and coordinate installation of new equipment.
• Perform advanced technical analyses with analytical instrumentation (GCMS, LCMS, HPLC, GC, ICPMS, etc.) autonomously.
• Identify and document departures from the quality system or test procedures.
• Read, calculate, and record analysis data to produce client reports; correct discrepancies.
• Review chemistry study data and write initial reports for approval by the Research Manager or Director.
• Lead analytical method troubleshooting and recommend modifications as new procedures become available.
• Support corporate quality and continuous improvement processes.
• Initiate actions to prevent or minimize quality system departures, address resource needs, and ensure timely client turnaround.
• Perform investigations, root cause analysis, and communicate procedural difficulties to client service personnel.
• Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and mentor junior staff on methods, instrument operation, and best laboratory practices.
• Lead specialized projects and support unique client requests.
• Keep up-to-date with assigned training and collaborate with R&D, Quality Assurance, and operations teams to support new product development and process improvements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned and uphold ethical conduct and the Code of Conduct.

• Bachelor’s degree plus >6 years experience in a related chemistry lab environment
• Master’s degree and >4 years relevant industry work experience
• Ph. D in a related field and >2 years relevant industry experience
• In lieu of degree, >10 years relevant work experience
• Advanced knowledge of chemistry for analyses, correct results, and data interpretation
• Strong proficiency in chromatography, spectroscopy, and other instrumental techniques (HPLC, GC, GC‑MS, LC‑MS, FTIR, ICP‑MS, ELISA, automated wet chemistry, etc.)
• Strong knowledge of food composition, ingredient functionality, and food processing interactions
• Experience performing method validation, statistical data analysis, and experimental design
• Competency in laboratory procedures adhering to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and ISO 17025 standards
• Familiarity with food industry regulations (FDA, USDA, FSMA, etc.)
• Strong problem‑solving, critical‑thinking, and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, cross‑functional R&D environment

• Advanced experience in method development and validation in food and dietary supplement chemistry
• Advanced technical and troubleshooting skills on a variety of…