IFF.Wilmington.DE.USA_Associate_Researcher_BioActives

EvolDir; Wilmington (DE); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

IFF Health & Biosciences in Wilmington, DE seeks a biology-focused early-career professional to support microbial cell factories, strain construction, and data-driven optimization in an industrial R&D setting.

The role emphasizes hands-on laboratory work, collaboration across multi-functional teams, and a commitment to learning new techniques as projects progress.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field with 0–2 years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree with no prior professional experience required
• Strong foundational knowledge of molecular biology, biochemistry, or microbial physiology
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a multi-functional project team
• Hands-on approach with a strong affinity for laboratory-based work
• Willingness and ability to learn new skills, techniques, and methodologies
• Adaptability to change and the ability to manage multiple workstreams in parallel
• Strong problem-solving skills and collaborative mindset
• Goal-oriented approach with the ability to deliver task-based outcomes
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail

Responsibilities

• Contribute to project workstreams focused on understanding the performance of microbial cell factories and their products in industrial applications
• Support strain construction initiatives using modern molecular and cell biology techniques
• Assist with optimization, analysis, and improvement of cell factories based on project data and direction
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional project teams to deliver defined project goals
• Execute laboratory and project tasks as directed by the project leader
• Explore and implement new methods and technologies in collaboration with the project team
• Generate, analyze, and clearly communicate experimental data
• Prepare technical reports, data summaries, presentations, protocols, and technical documentation

Skills

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Microbial physiology

Lab techniques

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field

Master's degree (optional)

Tools

Molecular cloning

Cell culture

Job description

Job SummaryAre you passionate about applying molecular biology to build innovative bio‑based solutions that make a real‑world impact?IFF is a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering customers a broad range of natural solutions while accelerating our growth strategy. We apply science and creativity to push beyond traditional boundaries, driving innovation for a more sustainable future.IFF Health & Biosciences (H&B) applies expert science to advance market‑driven, healthy, and sustainable solutions for the food, beverage, dietary supplement, and pharmaceutical industries. Using cutting‑edge biotechnology, we help customers turn complex challenges into high‑value business opportunities.This role is based in Wilmington, DE and follows an Anchor work model. You will join an innovative, customer‑focused, and diverse team supporting host construction, strain improvement, and product development initiatives.Where Youâ€TMll Make a Difference- Contribute to project workstreams focused on understanding the performance of microbial cell factories and their products in industrial applications- Support strain construction initiatives using modern molecular and cell biology techniques- Assist with optimization, analysis, and improvement of cell factories based on project data and direction- Collaborate effectively with cross‑functional project teams to deliver defined project goals- Execute laboratory and project tasks as directed by the project leader- Explore and implement new methods and technologies in collaboration with the project team- Generate, analyze, and clearly communicate experimental data- Prepare technical reports, data summaries, presentations, protocols, and technical documentationWhat Makes You The Right Fit- Bachelorâ€TMs degree in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field with 0–2 years of relevant experience, or a Masterâ€TMs degree with no prior professional experience required- Strong foundational knowledge of molecular biology, biochemistry, or microbial physiology- Demonstrated ability to work as part of a multi‑functional project team- Hands‑on approach with a strong affinity for laboratory‑based work- Willingness and ability to learn new skills, techniques, and methodologies- Adaptability to change and the ability to manage multiple workstreams in parallel- Strong problem‑solving skills and collaborative mindset- Goal‑oriented approach with the ability to deliver task‑based outcomes- Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detailHow Would You Stand Out?- Experience working in an industrial or applied Research & Development biotechnology environment- Familiarity with microbial strain engineering or cell factory optimization- Experience contributing to projects in fast‑paced, innovation‑driven settingsWhy Choose Us?- Opportunity to work at the forefront of biotechnology innovation- Collaborative and inclusive research environment- Exposure to industry‑leading technologies and scientific expertise- Professional development and continuous learning opportunities- The chance to contribute to sustainable solutions that impact everyday livesWe are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more