Lead Small-Scale Fermentation Scientist, Proteins

Archer Daniels Midland Company; Newman; On-site; AUD 121,000 - 171,000; Full time

Job summary

ADM Research & Development in Decatur, IL seeks an experienced Scientist (III) to lead bench-scale fermentation projects focused on proteins. You will evaluate strains, provide feedback on physiology, and collaborate with multiple groups in biotech development.

The role emphasizes hands-on lab work, planning, and mentorship of junior scientists, with strong communication and safety emphasis.

Qualifications

• Industrial biotech experience in fermentation of bacteria, yeast, or filamentous fungi.
• Bachelor/Master/PhD in relevant field with industry experience.
• Strong report writing and presentation abilities.
• Experience with DOE, data handling and quantitative reasoning.
• Hands-on benchtop fermentation equipment operation preferred.
• Excellent communication in English.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a technical lead on fermentation experiments.
• Communicate with upstream and downstream scientists to understand constraints and design experiments.
• Interpret results, draw conclusions, and communicate recommendations to groups.
• Document fermentation run plans, logs, and summaries in electronic notebooks.
• Contribute to bench execution using aseptic techniques and basic assays.
• Develop protocols and create SOPs and JSAs.
• Maintain fermentation and analytical equipment.
• Support continuous improvement and lab safety.
• Occasional weekend or evening work; lift up to 50 lbs.

Skills

Critical thinking

Data analysis

Design of Experiments

Lab safety

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Benchtop fermentation

Industrial biotech

Education

Bachelor or Master of Science, PhD in microbiology, biochemical engineering, or related field

Job description

ADM Research & Development in Decatur, IL seeks an experienced Scientist (III) to lead bench-scale fermentation projects focused on proteins. You will evaluate strains, provide feedback on physiology, and collaborate with multiple groups in biotech development.

The role emphasizes hands-on lab work, planning, and mentorship of junior scientists, with strong communication and safety emphasis.