Senior Research Scientist - Decatur, IL

Job Description

Senior Research Scientist – Decatur, IL

In this role, you will focus on the development of both food and non‑food applications, including advanced materials, construction, fermentation, plant care, packaging and papers, and personal care. You will lead and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to create innovative ingredients and systems, guiding them toward commercial success. Your work will serve as the foundation for enhancing the value of ingredients through a deep understanding of the chemistry, characterization, and functionality of carbohydrate‑based and biobased materials.

Your expertise will benefit our organization and provide valuable insights to our customers. You will become a well‑connected expert, fostering relationships with suppliers, trade associations, universities, and research facilities to stay ahead of the curve.

• Lead and drive R&D projects focused on carbohydrate and starch science, ensuring alignment with business goals and delivering innovative solutions for new product development and applications.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with process development, applications, and commercial teams to translate scientific insights into actionable business opportunities.
• Apply deep expertise in carbohydrate chemistry to identify, design, and develop innovative ingredients and functional solutions that address customer needs and drive future business growth.
• Design and execute robust experimental plans to investigate the functionality, interactions, and performance of carbohydrate ingredients in diverse applications, including non‑food sectors.
• Perform chemical and physical modifications of carbohydrate raw materials using technologies such as chemical reactors, extruders, and conventional mixing systems.
• Lead and coordinate cross‑disciplinary project teams using gated project management methodologies to ensure timely delivery of milestones and objectives.
• Utilize advanced statistical tools and design of experiments (DOE) software to optimize experimental designs, analyze data, and derive actionable insights.
• Employ advanced analytical techniques (e.g., NMR spectroscopy, X‑ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and imaging technologies) to uncover molecular interactions, structural properties, and functional performance of carbohydrate systems.
• Utilize advanced rheological techniques and instrumentation (e.g., rheometers, dynamic mechanical analyzers, and viscometers) to investigate flow behavior, viscoelastic properties, and functional performance of carbohydrate systems in complex formulations.
• Present research findings and project updates through well‑organized written reports, technical presentations, and verbal communications to diverse audiences.
• Ensure safe working practices in research labs, pilot plants, and manufacturing facilities to meet or exceed safety goals.

• PhD or Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry, Materials Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of industrial experience in biobased materials and sustainability, including packaging and papers, construction, fermentation, plant care, and home and personal care industries.
• Industry experience in starch, cellulose, and other natural products.
• Expertise and hands‑on experience with extrusion of natural products, including complex carbohydrates, is strongly desired.
• Knowledge and experience with a wide range of analytical instrumentation and carbohydrate characterization methods.
• Understanding of safe hazardous material handling and hazardous communication requirements and procedures.
• Proficiency in statistical software, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and other Microsoft Office tools.
• Ability to travel up to 20%.

• Medical, dental, vision, and on‑site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
• Flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions, cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers’ compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource…