Scientist Scale Fermentation – Decatur, IL

Job Description

Scientist (I), Small Scale Fermentation – Decatur, IL

ADM Research & Development

This is an exempt level position.

The Research Cell Engineering team is recruiting a motivated scientist to execute bench‑scale fermentation experiments supporting critical biotechnology projects for ADM. This role is lab‑focused, and this scientist will be responsible for fermentations using several types of cutting‑edge bench top bioreactors. As an important member of the small‑scale fermentation (SSF) team, the successful candidate will participate in strain evaluations of genetically engineered cell factories and contribute to the earliest stages of fast‑paced bioprocess development by providing critical feedback on strain performance and physiology.

This scientist will collaborate with Cell Engineering scientists with expertise in strain engineering, biochemistry, automation and
-omics technologies.

This team member will assist the small‑scale fermentation team with the setup, execution, and troubleshooting of fermentation experiments. They will perform regular maintenance of laboratory equipment and will regularly engage with continuous improvement of fermentation processes, operational issues, and safety.

• Work within a team to execute fermentation experiments from 0.1L to 1.3L scale, including media preparation, vessel setup and operations, inoculation, sampling, and cleanup.
• Maintain thorough documentation using an electronic lab notebook.
• Conduct at‑line analysis of fermentation samples, as necessary.
• Work using aseptic techniques and maintain a clean laboratory workspace.
• Conduct basic maintenance of fermentation and analytical equipment.
• Develop fermentation protocols and create corresponding documentation including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Job Safety Assessments (JSAs).
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts on execution of fermentations.
• Occasional weekend or evening work may be required. Must be able to safely lift 50lbs.

• The preferred candidate is self‑motivated and driven by a strong sense of scientific curiosity and rigor.

• MSc or BSc with 1‑4 years of relevant experience in microbiology, fermentation science, or related field.
• Experience with lab‑scale industrial microbiology research, including with aerobic or anaerobic fermentation of bacteria, yeast, or filamentous fungi.
• Familiarity with benchtop fermentation equipment (Eppendorf Dasgip, Sartorius Ambr
  250, or similar) is preferred.
• Experience with microbiology sample analysis (e.g., OD, CEDEX, pH, density, dry cell weight) preferred.
• Must have a strong safety mindset, and experience with biological and chemical laboratory safety protocols is a plus.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a diverse, multidisciplinary team.

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.

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:

$49,000.00 - $91,000.00

Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well‑being, including:

• Physical wellness – medical/Rx, dental, vision and on‑site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
• Financial wellness – flexible spending accounts, health…