Research Associate - Pilot Lab

Overview

Hennessy Research Associates – a Kemin company – is looking for a Research Associate to work closely with and support projects led by the Pilot Lab Application Engineering Manager. This role operates in an aseptic, operations‑driven environment where tasks are aligned to the production schedule. The work centers on cell, viral, and bacterial vaccine manufacturing, requiring strong technical execution and attention to detail.

The Research Associate serves as the critical middle point between research and manufacturing, ensuring that methods developed in R&D can be executed reliably, safely, and efficiently cess in this role requires someone who is hands‑on, persistent, and unafraid to push through obstacles when challenges arise. The position is located on‑site in Lenexa, KS.

• A competitive financial package – salary, uncapped bonus opportunity, 401(k) match, paid vacation and holidays.
• Health and wellness support – fitness reimbursement for family.
• Continued learning opportunities – tuition reimbursement and corporate university training.
• Opportunities to give back – paid time off for volunteering; partnership with WFP and Habitat for Humanity.
• Support for educators – sponsorship of Iowa Governor's Stem Advisory Council and internship program.

• Perform lab experiments within well‑defined guidelines and under direct supervision; operate laboratory equipment.
• Prepare solutions, set up equipment, perform sampling, conduct in‑process testing, and complete end‑of‑run cleanup.
• Assist with project planning and scheduling.
• Perform testing and data analysis.
• Execute project tasks, including optimization runs and equivalency studies.
• Support equipment start‑up, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance.
• Coordinate with vendors.
• Perform calibrations.
• Learn and understand equipment operation.
• Create, revise, and update batch records.
• Develop new procedures for facility operations and new equipment.
• Set up downstream processing operations; clean and organize downstream areas; run and maintain downstream processes.
• Assist with scale‑up activities.
• Operate and maintain fermentor vessels and processes.
• Order and organize equipment; order supplies and maintain accurate inventory levels.

• Education:
  • Associate’s Degree with 2+ years relevant experience in a pilot lab.
  • Bachelor’s Degree with 0–3 years relevant experience in a pilot lab.
• Aseptic technique experience within a cGMP manufacturing environment.
• Hands‑on experience with equipment setup, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance.
• Background in cell culture laboratory operations, including handling of mammalian or microbial systems.
• Familiarity with downstream processing (e.g., filtration, chromatography, clarification).
• Experience operating or supporting bench‑scale or pilot‑scale fer mentors/bioreactors.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple projects efficiently.
• Analytical lab skills with strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking.
• Reliable and self‑motivated.
• Good understanding of Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Basic understanding of English, both written and oral.
• Ability to interact well with others in a team environment.

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 email T

A post‑offer background check and drug screen is required. Additional pre‑employment requirements may be necessary based on position. Kemin is a drug‑free and tobacco‑free campus.