Scientist I, Benchtop Fermentation - Decatur, IL


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Job Title: Scientist I, Benchtop Fermentation - 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

Scientist I, Benchtop Fermentation - Decatur, IL

ADM Research & Development

Exempt-Level Position

Position Summary

ADM is seeking a Scientist I, Benchtop Fermentation to support fermentation research and development at the 7.5 L scale. This role will contribute to the validation of new production strains, as well as the scale-up and scale-down of fermentation processes. The team focuses on optimizing and troubleshooting fermentation methods across yeast, bacterial, and fungal systems, with responsibilities that may include microbial identification, sample analysis, data interpretation, and process improvement.

The successful candidate will follow experimental plans, operate and maintain fermentation systems, troubleshoot process and equipment issues, contribute to continuous improvement in fermentation execution, safety, documentation, and laboratory operations. This position requires strong aseptic technique, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative R&D environment.

Job Responsibilities
  • Execute benchtop fermentation experiments at the 7.5 L scale in support of R&D projects
  • Follow experimental protocols, standard operating procedures, and safety requirements to ensure consistent, high-quality execution
  • Set up, operate, monitor, and clean fermentation and related laboratory equipment
  • Record experimental conditions, process data, observations, deviations, and results accurately in batch records, experimental summaries, or other required documentation
  • Apply aseptic techniques to prevent or reduce contamination risk
  • Troubleshoot fermentation processes, equipment, and operational issues; recommend and implement corrective actions as appropriate
  • Support development, improvement, and documentation of fermentation protocols, SOPs, and Job Safety Analyses
  • Perform basic maintenance and routine checks on fermentation and laboratory analytical equipment.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory workspace, including inventory management of supplies and materials
  • Interpret experimental results, draw conclusions, and provide recommendations to the project technical lead
  • Communicate progress, issues, and results effectively with technical leaders, project teams, and cross-functional stakeholders
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to fermentation operations, process efficiency, data quality, and laboratory safety
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in fermentation science, microbiology, biochemical engineering, biotechnology, biology, chemistry, or a related field; or 2-3 years of hands-on fermentation experience
  • Ability to execute detailed experimental protocols with accuracy and consistency
  • Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to laboratory safety
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based, multidisciplinary environment
  • Self-motivated with the ability to manage tasks, priorities, and timelines
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work comfortably in a pilot laboratory environment
Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining benchtop fermentation equipment
  • Experience with industrial biotechnology, microbial fermentation, or bioprocess development
  • Familiarity with aseptic processing, media preparation, sterilization, sampling, and fermentation process monitoring
  • Experience contributing to scale-up, technology transfer, or process improvement efforts
  • Demonstrated ability to support projects that deliver technical and business value
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:112873BR

#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

To apply please click on APPLY TO THIS POSITION

Job Post Date: 09/10/26
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