Research Scientist Proteins

Job Description

• Plan, manage, and execute protein extraction research from bench to pilot scale with the goal of improving protein functionality with model food and beverage systems.
• Generate ideas and convert them into successful experiments with the aim of creating intellectual property.
• Collaborate actively with product development, process engineering, and analytics teams.
• Develop innovative methods for the design of plant protein isolation, purification, and characterization processes that will become future ingredients in MRS for customers.
• Visualize data and perform statistical analysis of experimental results, and interpret and communicate findings to the business unit.
• Serve as a subject-matter expert in plant protein research, mentoring and developing internal talent.
• Apply learnings from patent landscape and public research to short-, mid-, and long-term in‑house and external partner projects.

• Other duties as assigned by management.

Basic qualification:

• Knowledge of protein structure and function, polysaccharides, and fats within complex food matrix systems such as hydrocolloids, emulsions, foams, and gels.
• Application of enzymes and chemicals for proteins, oils, and polysaccharide modifications.
• Understanding of QA/QC, microbial safety, and sensory properties of proteins and food products.
• Proficiency in methods to characterize plant proteins and their use in food and beverage systems using analytical techniques such as rheology, texture analysis, particle size, scanning electron microscopy, proteomics, CD/DSC, SDS‑PAGE, etc.
• Broad knowledge of the plant‑based food and beverage industry and markets, with in‑depth product knowledge.

• Ph. D. in food science, protein chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, chemistry, biology, or a related field.
• Alternatively, a master’s degree in the above fields, with 5+ years of relevant food industry experience, or a bachelor’s with 10+ years of relevant food industry experience.

Basic qualifications:

• Random drug testing may be required.
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders, and to work at heights.
• Ability to work in confined spaces.
• Ability to work in a variety of temperatures and potential inclement weather.
• Ability to move manufacturing materials, products, and equipment of 50 pounds or more, requiring bending and lifting.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) in compliance with policies and procedures.
• Ability to work in fast‑paced lab environments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with spreadsheet and word‑processing software (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks to meet strict monthly deadlines.
• Proactive approach to job duties and potential problems.
• Detail‑oriented with strong organizational and documentation skills.

• Random drug testing may be required.
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to move manufacturing materials, products, and equipment of 50 pounds or more, requiring bending and lifting.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) in compliance with policies and procedures.

• Time split between pilot plant, office, and lab environments; may involve extended periods of sitting or standing at a computer screen or counter.
• Interacts closely with personnel in other departments and company locations.
• Interacts closely with middle and senior management personnel.
• Occasional extensions of regular working hours to complete time‑sensitive projects or respond to emergencies.

• May supervise 1 or 2 research assistants, based upon business needs.

• Handle and report issues or questions as directed by Livermore facility management; prioritize personal workload to ensure meeting of deadlines.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, and vision care…