Lead Research Microbiologist

Merieux NutriSciences; Crete (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vis

Generous PTO

Optional 401(k) with employer matching

Job summary

Merieux NutriSciences in Crete, IL is seeking a Lead Research Microbiologist to lead contract research projects and supervise laboratory activities. You will review study designs, set up experiments, interpret results, and train staff while maintaining strict quality controls.

The role emphasizes leadership in a fast-paced food safety research environment, with opportunities to contribute to publications and client projects. Strong communication and safety practices are essential.

Qualifications

• Broad knowledge of food microbiology and food science
• Experience in a research laboratory to execute studies and analyze data
• Independent research abilities with minimal supervision
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures
• Strong leadership and project coordination skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Attention to detail for quality analysis
• Ability to troubleshoot results
• Ability to lead lab personnel if needed
• Experience leading lab activities and training

Responsibilities

• Lead the execution of contract research projects in a fast-paced lab
• Review study folders and ensure tasks align with SOPs
• Set up new research studies and transfer data for next steps
• Communicate project needs to laboratory personnel
• Educate and train staff on procedures and methods
• Collaborate on proposals, reports, and publications
• Cease analyses when quality controls fail
• Maintain and utilize LIMS and pursue ongoing learning
• Adapt projects based on data generated
• Support corporate quality and continuous improvement
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Skills

Food microbiology

Laboratory leadership

Project management

Data analysis

Communication

Troubleshooting

Laboratory safety

MS Office

Team coordination

Attention to detail

Education

Advanced degree in science

Food science or microbiology emphasis

Tools

LIMS

Job description

Lead Research Microbiologist

Crete Science Center

Regular (US Only)

MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES

As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 32 countries, we offer to our customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods. External growth has been a key pillar of our history with more than 40 acquisitions completed in the last 10 years. If you want to contribute to an inspiring long-term purpose, to be part of a fast growing company on a high-value market with significant build-up opportunities, and to grow in an entrepreneurial and warm environment, join us!

YOUR DAY TO DAY LIFE

We are looking for a Lead Research Microbiologist in 3600 Eagle Nest Dr, Crete, IL 60417 USA. Your mission will be to:

Position Summary

This position is responsible for leading the execution of specialized studies and/or contract research projects in a fast-paced environment. These studies are designed to promote the safety, quality, and nutrition of the global food supply for Merieux NutriSciences clients. This position contributes to defined contract research projects by reviewing schedules and daily scheduled laboratory tasks, setting up new studies, and interpreting results in accordance with required specifications and established procedures.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Lead the operational activities of contract research projects to ensure studies are executed in accordance with signed agreement, and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Review product groups, folders prior to start of a study, and review folders at the end of each day to ensure daily tasks for scheduled projects are accurately completed to maintain effective and efficient operations
• Prepare and execute the set up of new research studies in accordance with signed agreement, and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Review results and transfer data as generated from ongoing contract research studies and prepare for next steps of the project.
• Ensure communication of any requirements from the research projects to laboratory personnel as needed.
• Educate and train departmental personnel on correct procedures and analytical methods to support contract research studies. Recommend ideas to develop or enhance analytical procedures or processes to improve quality and/or efficiency.
• Collaborates on contract research proposals and reports and manuscripts; drafts and/or collaborates in the development of publications and presentations.
• Responsibility and authority, in conjunction with the Quality Manager and General Manager, to cease specific analyses under their responsibility when evidence from the quality system indicated the process is not in control and the quality of the results is compromised as a result of the non-conformances.
• Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that is required to complete job responsibilities.Maintain expertise in the field of food science by attending relevant seminars and using available reading material.
• Responsible for reviewing data generated from research studies and adapting the project based on generated data.
• Support corporate quality and continuous improvement process
• Other related duties as assigned.
• At any time, the incumbent must behave and operate in an ethical and Code of Conduct compliant manner.

Communication

• The incumbent has frequent contact with scientists and laboratory management to solve difficulties and provide status reports. The incumbent has occasional contact with personnel at other company facilities to discuss testing methodologies or specific client requirements. This position has occasional contact with the client to obtain information on the experimental and provide results during the project life.

YOUR PROFILE

Qualifications Required

• A broad knowledge of food microbiology and food science, typically obtained from an advanced degree in science or equivalent years of experience, preferably in food science or microbiology.
• Related job experience in a research laboratory is necessary to execute studies and analyze and interpret data accurately within the context of a research project.
• Demonstrated independent research abilities, with the capability to perform accurately and efficiently with a minimal level of supervision.
• A broad knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and policies is necessary to ensure a safe working environment.
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills are required to effectively manage projects and coordinate personnel assigned to projects to complete daily project tasks.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential to effectively communicate information appropriately to different sources.
• Computer skills are necessary in the daily completion of tasks for this position, including proficient use of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Attention to detail is imperative to ensure that the quality of the analysis is maintained.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot inconsistent or unlikely results to determine the source of the discrepancy.
• Ability to make decisions for the department to ensure that samples are accurately analyzed, that the timelines for each research project are met accurately and that the research project team functions efficiently.
• Ability to interpret and analyze each situation and determine the best alternative course of action.
• May directly lead laboratory personnel (including technician and/or lab assistant) as needed.
• The incumbent leads the activities of departmental personnel performing tasks within a research project, such as preparation, inoculation, processing, packaging and testing of food samples.
• Responsibilities include training, assigning work, evaluating accuracy of the results, review of project documentation, data entry & analyses.

Success Factors / Job Competencies

• Analytical Skills: Evaluating operational data.
• Process Optimization: Improving operational processes.
• Project Management: Overseeing operational projects.
• Team Collaboration: Working well with colleagues.
• Communication Skills: Clear information exchange.
• Continuous Operational Improvement: Ongoing process enhancements.
• Efficient Operational Processes: Smooth operations.
• Effective Project Delivery: Timely project completion.
• High-Quality Outputs: Superior results.
• Positive Feedback from Stakeholders: Satisfaction from involved parties.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• The incumbent works in a laboratory setting with proper lighting and temperature control. Occasional exposure to laboratory fumes, chemicals, and materials will occur when in the laboratory. Safety equipment includes eye protection, laboratory coat, and heat resistant gloves for autoclave use. The incumbent is required to occasionally lift 10-20 pounds of sample. The incumbent can expect extended time spent in a standing position. The incumbent should be able to detect slight variation in shades of colors.

Travel

• Minimal Travel may be required to support other Laboratory facilities or attend training.

Qualifications Desired

• Organizational and project planning skills are helpful to ensure proper and efficient daily operation of assigned tasks as they relate to research projects in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation Package Overview

• $55000 - $65000 annual salary USD

Full Time

Eligible Benefits Overview

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) package to support work-life balance following state and local ordinances.
• Optional 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions.

The information above provides a general overview and may vary based on specific job responsibilities, location, or other factors. Details will be clarified during the hiring process.

WHY JOIN US?

• Because you would contribute to an inspiring Public Health purpose, supported by long-term and visionary shareholders.
• Because you would have an impact on our strategic pillars that build on 60 years of experience and expertise.
• Because you would be part of a community of an enthusiastic and skilled group of people who love co-building together and serving a purpose bigger than them.
• Because you would welcome as you are, in a diverse and open-minded environment that is rich in our singularities and differences.
• Because you would grow in an international group of more than 10,000 fantastic team members, with plenty of opportunities to learn and share.