Senior Research Scientist - Decatur, IL


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Job Title: Senior Research Scientist - 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

Senior Research Scientist - Decatur, IL

In this role, you will focus on the development of both food and non-food applications, including but not limited to advanced materials, construction, fermentation, plant care, packaging and papers, and personal care. You will lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams to spearhead the creation of innovative ingredients and systems, guiding them toward commercial success. Your work will serve as the foundation for enhancing the value of ingredients through a deep understanding of the chemistry, characterization, and functionality of carbohydrate-based and biobased materials.

Your expertise will not only benefit our organization but also provide valuable insights to our customers regarding the functionality of carbohydrate-derived products. In this role, you will become a well-connected expert, fostering relationships with suppliers, trade associations, universities, and research facilities. Your objective? To stay ahead of the curve by continuously monitoring new developments, methods, and innovations related to carbohydrates.

This position offers the opportunity to be recognized as a high-level scientific resource, utilizing your skills to develop and champion independent ideas that lead to successful project completion. Join us on this exciting journey to shape the future of carbohydrate platforms.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead and drive research and development (R&D) projects with a focus on carbohydrate and starch science, ensuring alignment with business goals and delivering innovative solutions for new product development and applications.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with process development, applications, and commercial teams to translate scientific insights into actionable business opportunities.
  • Apply deep expertise in carbohydrate chemistry to identify, design, and develop innovative ingredients and functional solutions that address customer needs and drive future business growth.
  • Design and execute robust experimental plans to investigate the functionality, interactions, and performance of carbohydrate ingredients in diverse applications, including non-food sectors.
  • Perform chemical and physical modifications of carbohydrate raw materials using technologies such as chemical reactors, extruders, and conventional mixing systems.
  • Lead and coordinate cross-disciplinary project teams using gated project management methodologies to ensure timely delivery of milestones and objectives.
  • Utilize advanced statistical tools and design of experiments (DOE) software to optimize experimental designs, analyze data, and derive actionable insights.
  • Employ advanced analytical techniques (e.g., NMR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and imaging technologies) to uncover molecular interactions, structural properties, and functional performance of carbohydrate systems.
  • Utilize advanced rheological techniques and instrumentation (e.g., rheometers, dynamic mechanical analyzers, and viscometers) to investigate flow behavior, viscoelastic properties, and functional performance of carbohydrate systems in complex formulations.
  • Present research findings and project updates through well-organized written reports, technical presentations, and verbal communications to diverse audiences.
  • Ensure safe working practices in research labs, pilot plants, and manufacturing facilities to meet or exceed safety goals.
Job Requirements:
  • PhD or Master's degree in Organic Chemistry, Materials Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field.
  • At least 5 years of industrial experience in biobased materials and sustainability, including but not limited to packaging and papers, construction, fermentation, plant care, and home and personal care industries.
  • Industry experience in starch, cellulose, and other natural products.
  • Expertise and hands-on experience with extrusion of natural products, including complex carbohydrates, is strongly desired.
  • Knowledge and experience with a wide range of analytical instrumentation and carbohydrate characterization methods.
  • Understanding of safe hazardous material handling and hazardous communication requirements and procedures.
  • Proficiency in statistical software, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and other Microsoft Office tools.
  • Ability to travel up to 20%.
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:102234BR

#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: 10/14/25
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