Biochemistry Research Assistant

Location: Chesterfield

Job Title:

Biochemistry Research Assistant

Job Description

This role serves as a hands-on Biochemistry Research Assistant and Formulation Specialist supporting a high-priority enzyme stabilization and product development project. You will act as the primary owner of enzyme assay analysis for prototype formulations, collaborating closely with internal teams and external partners (CROs). The position offers strong exposure to product development, formulation science, and pilot-scale operations while providing a structured training and development pathway for an early-career scientist.

Responsibilities

* Execute time-sensitive, multi-step enzyme assays with high precision, consistency, and adherence to established protocols.

* Serve as the primary owner of enzyme assay throughput, ensuring data quality and reliability across multiple concurrent samples.

* Support enzyme formulation development and optimization projects by performing analytical testing and interpreting results.

* Analyze samples from pelleting trials and external CRO prototype work streams, providing timely and accurate data to project stakeholders.

* Assist with physical property testing and experimental modeling to support formulation and product development decisions.

* Generate clear technical reports, data summaries, and presentations to communicate findings to cross-functional teams.

* Maintain strict adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), documentation practices, and laboratory cleanliness standards.

* Learn and apply new analytical techniques and technologies quickly to enhance assay capabilities and throughput.

* Work independently in the laboratory while maintaining accuracy during repetitive, detail-driven analytical tasks.

* Collaborate effectively with internal teams, contract research organizations (CROs), and project stakeholders to advance project milestones.

* Participate in hands-on pilot and manufacturing activities, including work in feed and pelleting environments as needed.

* Follow all safety protocols when working with laboratory chemicals, biological materials, equipment, and pilot systems.

* Manage multiple samples and workflows simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet project timelines.

* Document all experimental work with a strong focus on data integrity, traceability, and compliance with laboratory best practices.

Essential Skills

* Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.

* At least 1 year of laboratory experience in an industry laboratory setting after graduation.

* Practical laboratory experience in biochemistry, wet chemistry, or related analytical disciplines.

* Hands-on experience performing assays and working with analytical laboratory equipment.

* Demonstrated ability to execute repetitive, detail-driven analytical work with high accuracy and consistency.

* Strong attention to detail and ability to follow multi-step procedures precisely.

* Excellent time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple samples and workflows concurrently.

* Comfort working in hands-on laboratory and pilot plant environments.

* High level of ownership, accountability, and responsibility for assigned assays and experiments.

* Strong documentation skills and a data integrity mindset, including careful recordkeeping and adherence to SOPs.

* Effective written and verbal communication skills for reporting results and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

* Analytical laboratory, bioassay, or enzyme-related work experience preferred.

* Research and development (R&D) or product development experience preferred.

* Interest in product development, applied science, and enzyme analytics.

* Mechanical aptitude or comfort working with equipment, pilot systems, and manufacturing environments is a plus.

* Experience working with laboratory chemicals and personal protective equipment (PPE).

* Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new processes, technologies, and analytical methods.

* Comfort working around biological materials commonly found in animal nutrition environments.

* Motivation to thrive in a fast-paced, technical environment and to take ownership of a critical analytical method.

* Interest in a structured training and development pathway with opportunities for skill growth and increased responsibility.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Chesterfield, MO.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $25.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

* Medical, dental & vision

* Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital

* 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available

* Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee…