Research Chemist at Archer Daniels Midland Decatur, IL

Research Scientist I – Enzyme Applications

Location:

Decatur, IL – Archer Daniels Midland (ADM Research).

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.

• Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on‑site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
• Financial wellness - 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.
• Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).

Additional benefits include:

• Paid time off including paid holidays.
• Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
• Tuition assistance.
• Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as Linked In Learning, language training and mentoring programs.

* Benefits may vary for bargained locations; confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.

Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. If hired, employees will be in an "at-will" position and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

The pay range for this position is expected to be between: