Research Chemist at Archer Daniels Midland Decatur, IL

Research Chemist job at Archer Daniels Midland. Decatur, IL.

Research Scientist I - Enzyme Applications

ADM Research, Decatur, IL. This is a Full-Time, exempt position.

ADM Research is seeking a Research Scientist with a strong background in Protein Chemistry, Enzymology, Organic Chemistry and biochemical transformations to join our Enzyme Process Chemistry group in Decatur, IL. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of innovative enzyme-based processes for the conversion of agricultural feed stocks-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 feed stocks into innovative products.

• 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.
• Participate in safety reviews and promote a strong culture of laboratory safety.
• Occasional travel may be required.

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, 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 enzymatic transformations, organic synthesis, enzyme expression, purification, and characterization.
• Strong understanding of enzyme kinetics, thermodynamics, and stability.
• Proficiency with chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques.
• Experience in enzymatic process scale-up, enzyme downstream processing, and process design is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques and bench-scale fermentation is beneficial but not required.
• Knowledge of safe handling of hazardous materials and compliance with safety and communication protocols.
• Proficiency with statistical analysis tools 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.

• Strong passion for hands-on laboratory work in an industrial research environment.
• Results-driven with the ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized with strong interpersonal and time-management abilities.
• Creative, analytical, and proactive problem-solver.
• Team-oriented, with the ability to contribute effectively to global, cross-functional teams.

Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.

ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.  

At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company.

Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over.

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.

We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color,…