Scientist, Research Scientist

Scientist

Job Category:
Research and Development

Work Location:

On-Site

Office

Location:

Lenexa, KS, US

Job Type: Full Time

Job

At Corbion, we exist to champion preservation in all its forms, preserving food and food production, health, and our planet.

Corbion is seeking a Scientist to join the Food Microbiology & Preservation team, supporting the design and execution of microbiological studies to evaluate and optimize preservation solutions across a range of food applications. This role involves generating high-quality data through lab studies and collaborating cross-functionally with R&D, Applications, and Commercial teams to translate results into practical solutions that support product innovation, food safety, and business growth.

• Design and execute microbiological studies, including challenge studies and shelf-life evaluations, to assess preservation solutions across food applications.
• Analyze, interpret, and clearly communicate experimental results through reports and presentations to cross-functional teams.
• Collaborate with the global Food Microbiology teams and cross-functional partners, including R&D, Applications, Commercial, and Business Development teams, to support product development, customer-driven, and global innovation projects.
• Apply scientific knowledge to troubleshoot microbiological and formulation challenges in food systems.
• Support the use and development of predictive models and data-driven tools for shelf-life and food safety assessments.
• Maintain accurate documentation of laboratory work and ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Stay current with industry trends and scientific advancements, and contribute to continuous improvement of methods and processes.

• Bachelor's Degree in Food Microbiology, Microbiology, Food Science, or a related scientific discipline. Master's Degree is a plus.
• 3+ years of relevant experience in food microbiology, food safety, or a related applied BSL-2 laboratory environment.
• Hands-on experience conducting microbiological testing, including pathogen and spoilage organism studies.
• Experience designing and executing laboratory experiments and analyzing scientific data.
• Familiarity with predictive microbiology models or data analysis tools.
• Experience working in a cross-functional, industry-based R&D environment.
• Working knowledge of food safety regulations and guidelines (e.g., USDA, FDA).
• Foundation in food microbiology techniques, including pathogen and spoilage organism testing, aseptic technique, and standard plating/enumeration methods.
• Experience with predictive microbiology and modeling tools and ability to interpret and apply model outputs to real food systems.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and experimental design, including hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and interpretation of variability in microbiological data. Experience with tools such as R, Python, JMP, or Minitab.
• Ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Documentation, data management, and technical reporting skills.
• Routine exposure to microbiological cultures, food products, and standard laboratory equipment.
• Requires adherence to strict food safety, laboratory safety, and quality protocols, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Combination of hands-on laboratory work and desk-based activities, including data analysis, documentation, and report writing (70% laboratory & 30% desk).
• Collaborative, team-oriented environment with frequent interaction across cross-functional and global teams.

• Ability to stand for extended periods while conducting laboratory experiments.
• Ability to lift and carry objects…