Research Scientist III, Material Science - Decatur, IL

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Job Title: Research Scientist III, Material Science - 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
Job Type: Full Time

Job Description: Job Description

Research Scientist III, Material Science - Decatur, IL

ADM Research & Development

This is an exempt level position.

Position Summary

The Material Science R&D team is seeking an innovative and highly motivated Research Scientist III, Material Science to accelerate ingredient innovation across ADM's portfolio of food and non-food solutions. This role will leverage material science principles and advanced characterization techniques to establish structure-function relationships that enable differentiated products, process improvements, and new technology development.

The successful candidate will serve as a technical expert within cross-functional innovation teams and will apply scientific rigor, creativity, and data-driven approaches to solve complex technical challenges. This individual will drive research projects from concept through implementation while collaborating with colleagues across R&D, Operations, and Commercial teams.

Key Responsibilities

Design, execute, analyze, and interpret experiments using advanced materials characterization techniques to understand ingredient structure-function relationships
Utilize advanced analytical tools and characterization techniques including light and electron microscopy, particle characterization, spectroscopy, thermal analysis, rheology, and surface characterization techniques
Apply advanced electron and light microscopy methods, including sample preparation, imaging, and microstructural analysis, to characterize food ingredients and materials, solve technical challenges, and support R&D and commercial projects
Develop, validate, and implement analytical methods, procedures, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Perform routine instrument maintenance, troubleshooting, and coordination of external service activities as needed
Apply statistical analysis and Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies to optimize experimental design and data interpretation
Lead research projects independently and contribute to multidisciplinary teams using stage-gate innovation process
Identify emerging technologies, scientific trends, and competitive opportunities through literature reviews, patent analysis, and technical scouting
Effectively communicate technical results through reports, presentations, and stakeholder updates
Collaborate across functional teams to drive project success and accelerate innovation
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance laboratory capabilities, efficiency, and scientific excellence
Maintain accurate laboratory records and electronic documentation in accordance with company policies
Champion a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with laboratory safety procedures and policies

Job Requirements

Ph.D. in Materials Science, Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline with 0-3 years relevant industrial experience; or M.S. degree with 5+ years of relevant industrial research experience
Demonstrated experience applying advanced characterization techniques to understand structure-function relationships in complex material systems
Strong knowledge of material science characterization techniques and correlation with ingredient functionality
Experience with image analysis software, advanced data analytics, multivariate statistical tools, DOEs, and data-driven experimental design
Experience in food ingredients, biobased materials, proteins, carbohydrates, hydrocolloids, emulsions, or other complex ingredient systems
Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced research environment.
Strong problem-solving, organizational, and technical communication skills
Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating across multidisciplinary teams
Commitment to laboratory safety and scientific excellence

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:113492BR

#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: 10/04/26