Research Assistant, Proteins

Professional Areas Research & Development

Louis Dreyfus Company is a leading merchant and processor of agricultural goods. Our activities span the entire value chain from farm to fork, across a broad range of business lines, we leverage our global reach and extensive asset network to serve our customers and consumers around the world. Structured as a matrix organization of six geographical regions and ten platforms, Louis Dreyfus Company is active in over 100 countries and employs approximately 18,000 people globally.

LDC is looking for a motivated and independent self‑starter R&D research assistant to join our plant protein business unit R&D group. This R&D team evaluates, purifies, and characterizes novel plant proteins along with investigating ways to enhance their functionalities within food systems. This role will also interface with manufacture ready solutions (MRS) product development team on developing methods to characterize and prototype unique plant‑based food and beverage products.

• Perform basic biotechnology experiments and collect and record/document research data in compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Plan, manage, execute plant protein research from bench to pilot scale following established procedures and protocols.
• Active collaboration with product development, process engineering, and analytics to ensure timely deliverables.
• Coordinate with scientists in generating innovative methods of plant proteins isolation and characterization process, and to convert them into successful experimental plan and execution.
• Operate equipment to characterize proximate and functionality of a variety of plant protein sources.
• Data visualization and statistical analysis of experimental results as well as interpreting and communicating the findings of R&D team to the business unit.

• Knowledge of basic protein chemistry and their extraction techniques, basic proximate characterization techniques.
• Understanding of QA/QC, microbial safety, and sensory properties of proteins and food products.
• Know‑how in methods to characterize plant proteins and its use in food and beverage systems using analytical methods such as rheology, texture analysis, particle size, SDS‑PAGE etc., is preferred.
• General knowledge on plant‑based food and beverage industry and markets would be desirable.
• 1‑2 years of previous job experience in a biotech or food tech industry is preferred.

Bachelor’s in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or a related field.

Excellent verbal and written proficiency in English.

Analytical abilities, data visualization software, Microsoft Office, excellent communications and project management skills, ability to present research findings to scientist and non‑technical audiences.

• We provide a dynamic and stimulating international environment, which will stretch and develop your abilities and channel your skills and expertise with outstanding career development opportunities in one of the largest and most solid private companies in the world.
• Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental and vision care coverage, flexible spending account plans, employee assistance program, life insurance and disability coverage.
• 401k with Company Match.
• Family Friendly Benefits including childbirth and parental leave, fertility and family building benefits.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays.
• Flexible work available (not applicable to all roles).

LDC is driven by a set of shared values and high ethical standards, with diversity and inclusion being part of our DNA. LDC is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity, equity and inclusion. LDC encourages diversity, supports local communities and environmental initiatives. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.

Louis Dreyfus Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Sustainable value is at the heart of our purpose as a company. We are passionate about creating fair and sustainable value, both for our business and for other value chain stakeholders: our people, our business partners, the communities we touch and the environment around us.