Research Chemist, Enzyme Development - Decatur, IL

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Job Title: Research Chemist, Enzyme Development - Decatur, IL
Location: Decatur, IL, Midwest United States, USA

Company: Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)
Industry Sector: Agribusiness
Industry Type: Input Retail, Cooperative and Related Crop Services
Career Type: Scientist
Job Type: Full Time

Job Description: Job Description

Research Chemist, Enzyme Development - Decatur, IL

This is a full time, exempt position.

ADM, a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company, has an opening for a Research Chemist in the Process Chemistry and Catalysis Group at our Corporate Research Center located in Decatur, IL

Position summary

We are looking for a scientist to assist in development and execution of new enzyme processes. The successful candidate will perform enzyme activity assays, enzyme and protein characterization, protein quantification and new method development, often using high-throughput lab robotics systems. Projects will relate to new and ongoing product and process developments involving enzyme applications.

Under the direction of a manager, project leader, or senior scientist, this role will interact with a broad range of functions, including production, engineering, other Research teams, and ADM suppliers.

Job responsibilities

Perform all job functions in accordance with safety guidelines, and ensure that lab technicians, contract employees, and others follow ADM laboratory standards
Generate data to support enzyme process development programs leading to advancement of product pipeline
Develop experimental plans with a lead scientist to accomplish project goals
Perform enzyme activity assays to support multiple research projects and product development
Generate and analyze data using scientific and statistical techniques
Communicate status updates on research activities verbally and through written reports and presentations
Maintain proper housekeeping
Construct and/or modify equipment according to experimental specifications and appropriate safety protocols
Work both independently and within a diverse team to support process and product development
Collaborate with internal colleagues, contractors, and suppliers and send clear, concise messages to share ideas, interpretations, and feedback
Participate in safety reviews with colleagues on a variety of projects

Skills and proficiencies

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical or Biological Engineering or related field
Knowledge and experience with analytical instrumentation, especially UV-Vis, HPLC, FPLC or CE is a plus.
Experience with enzyme activity assays or protein characterization methods such as SDS-PAGE, Bradford/BCA, or FPLC is a plus.
Ability to execute sophisticated scientific experiments and document results
Knowledge of safe hazardous material handling and hazardous communication requirements and procedures
Professional experience using Microsoft Office software, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Outlook
Ability to function independently while interacting with leadership, facility management, and contract employees
Ability to troubleshoot and problem solve in a team environment
Effective writing and oral communication skills, strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and able to maintain confidential information
Able to safely lift and manipulate reactor systems up to 50 pounds, move gas cylinders, and use hand and power tools

Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.

ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.

REF:103230BR

#IncludingYou

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.

We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law

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Job Post Date: 11/01/25