Research Scientist Chemistry

Compensation

$68,000–$70,000 annually, commensurate with experience.

• Full‑time exempt Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Occasional weekend work may be required.
• Position is fully on‑site; remote work is not available.

The Institute for Food Safety and Health (IFSH), 6502 S Archer Rd., Bedford Park, IL 60501.

Our commitment to employee well‑being is reflected in our competitive benefits package.

The Research Scientist – Chemistry will work at the IIT Institute for Food Safety and Health (IFSH) on the joint Proficiency Testing program with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), located at the Moffett Campus of IIT. The joint IFSH‑FDA Proficiency Testing program is ISO 17043 accredited. Under minimal supervision, the Scientist responds to complex scientific inquiries and resolves method/instrument issues.

The Scientist also takes a lead role in drafting scientific papers/presentations.

• Contributes to the Proficiency Testing Chemistry programs by performing lab tests and analyses in accordance with required specifications, established procedures and customer service standards to provide accurate research data (20%).
• Conducts analyses in a timely, accurate, and cost‑effective manner. Manages lab processes and supplies and operates and maintains laboratory equipment (e.g., HPLC, GC, MS, ICP‑MS, and other analytical instruments) to achieve maximum output (20%).
• Assists in developing, documenting, updating, and maintaining approved procedures for assigned Proficiency Testing Chemistry projects. Plans, schedules, and prioritizes project activities (20%).
• Accurately estimates the time required to complete tasks, respects timelines and priorities of others. Works with industry partners and participates in cross‑functional teams to drive project results (20%).
• Develops client/grant/internal proposals for funding. Develops internal status updates, reports, and scientific presentations/publications (10%).
• Directs students and other project contributors with small projects and projects of limited focus. Recommends ideas to enhance department effectiveness. Ensures that all safety procedures are in effect and tracked. Communicates to encourage teamwork and a proactive approach to meet customer needs. Performs other duties as assigned (10%).

• M.S. degree in Food Science, Chemistry or related field with 3 or more years’ related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel. Excellent technical writing skills.
• Strong verbal communication skills, including presenting papers and scientific findings.

• No budget authority or supervision of staff.
• May direct up to 3 students on small projects.

• Works with minimal supervision, responds to complex queries and is proactive in seeking solutions.
• Exceptional attention to detail, demonstrated through consistent performance, in maintaining and documenting scientific notebooks and papers.
• Effectively communicates to encourage participation and seeks input from others to resolve issues as they arise.

• Approximately 75% of work time will be spent in an ISO 17043‑accredited laboratory and approximately 25% in an office environment.
• May have to lift up to 10 pounds on occasion and perform repetitive motions up to 20% of the time during the workday, including data entry and instrument manipulation.

Illinois Institute of Technology is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, inclusion, and diversity. It is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and actively seeks applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, regardless of race, color, sex, marital status, religion, national origin, disability, age, unfavorable discharge from the military, status as a protected veteran, sexual orientation, including gender identity and expression, order of protection status, and/or genetic information.

All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment.