Associate Scientist - Food Chemistry

Overview

Kemin Industries Food Technologies business unit is seeking an Associate Scientist to join a team of experienced researchers and strengthen the chemistry foundation behind ingredient‑innovation initiatives. The role focuses on developing new ingredients, establishing SOPs, creating analytical methods and food models, and applying instrumental and organic chemistry to identify functional molecules, with an emphasis on natural sources.

• Develop and execute chemical assays and food model testing for ingredient evaluation.
• Independently conduct innovative scientific experiments and translate research into practical applications.
• Perform pilot‑plant operations to support process scale‑up and optimization.
• Perform literature reviews and provide written summaries that are incorporated into strategy.
• Identify and deliver commercially viable solutions to customers.
• Communicate effectively and display cross‑functional collaboration to drive successful product commercialization.
• Deliver high‑quality data and reports on time.
• Develop and review SOPs, research protocols, and research methods; design safety procedures.
• Perform advanced data analysis and review others' data to provide input and insight.
• Collect, interpret and document research data.
• Generate scientific publications for internal and external publication, with guidance and review.
• Prepare and present data analytics and research in multiple formats internally and externally.
• Review internal publications across Kemin.
• Identify and participate in external research collaborations.
• Contribute to strategic planning process and customer meetings.
• Provide instruction and training to interns and junior staff.

• Education:
  
  PhD with 0‑3 years experience.
• Must be able to work independently or on a team and thrive in a fast‑paced multidisciplinary environment.
• Solid knowledge foundation in food chemistry (especially polyphenols, phytochemicals, colorants, etc.) and hands‑on lab experience in food and chemical analysis.
• Strong understanding of food ingredient functionalities, interactions, and core food‑processing principles.
• Excellent scientific skills in experiment design and data collection; able to maintain instruments.
• Detail oriented, organized, with prioritization skills and motivated by accomplishment.
• Ability to perform advanced statistical analysis.
• Analytical lab skills with strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking.
• Fluent in English; excellent written and oral communication skills with ability to present ideas effectively.
• Advanced computer knowledge (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, etc.).

• Competitive Financial Package: rewarding salary, uncapped bonus opportunities, 401(k) match program, generous paid vacation and holidays.
• Health and Wellness Support: fitness reimbursement for the whole family, on‑site fitness center, seasonal fresh food restaurant, free fresh fruit in break areas.
• Career Development and Advancement: opportunities for growth and development throughout the career.
• Continued Learning Opportunities: in‑house learning platforms, thousands of training resources, tuition reimbursement for external post‑secondary pursuits.
• Service Opportunities: paid time off for service, partnerships with The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, local community initiatives.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed/religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status (where applicable), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy/childbirth/breastfeeding or related conditions, age (40+), disability (including the use of a service animal), genetic information, marital status, familial or caregiver status, military or veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, reproductive health decision‑making, and any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

We also prohibit retaliation for raising concerns or participating in an EEO process. Applicants who need a reasonable accommodation to apply or interview can contact us by email.

A post‑offer background check and drug screen is required. Additional pre‑employment requirements may be necessary based on the position.