Principal Scientist

Pasona N A, Inc.; Elgin (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Pasona N A, Inc. in Illinois seeks a lead scientist to direct laboratory research, product development, and commercialization initiatives in food and biotechnology.

The role combines hands-on experimentation with team leadership, IP support, and technical collaboration with customers, while ensuring GMP/SQF compliance and mentoring staff.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in a scientific discipline.
• Progressive R&D experience with leadership.
• Strong written and verbal scientific communication skills.
• Experience in food or biotechnology industries.
• Extensive industrial enzyme application experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead laboratory research and product development from concept to commercialization.
• Develop multiple new product applications annually.
• Provide data supporting patent applications.
• Lead R&D projects with customers and global teams.
• Support Sales and Marketing as a technical resource.
• Ensure GMP, SQF, and quality management compliance.
• Supervise scientists and research staff including hiring and mentoring.

Skills

Scientific leadership

Communication skills

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Enzyme applications

Education

Ph.D. in a scientific discipline

Job description

A global organization developing scientific solutions and product applications for the food and biotechnology industries.

Position Summary

Lead laboratory research, product application development, and commercialization initiatives. This role combines hands-on experimentation with team leadership, customer collaboration, intellectual property development, and technical support for business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct complex laboratory and bench-scale research.
• Develop at least three new product applications annually, from concept through commercialization.
• Provide technical data supporting at least two patent applications annually.
• Prepare scientific content for promotional materials and webinars.
• Deliver technical presentations at client meetings and domestic or international conferences.
• Identify market opportunities through research, conferences, and customer engagement.
• Lead joint R&D projects with customers and global research teams.
• Support Sales and Marketing as a primary technical resource.
• Provide analytical services supporting customer retention and market expansion.
• Manage laboratory equipment, safety procedures, documentation, and 5S practices.
• Maintain compliance with GMP, SQF, food safety, and quality management requirements.
• Supervise scientists and research staff, including hiring, training, evaluations, compensation, and mentorship.
• Support departmental budgeting and resource management.
• Submit client reports within 48 hours and monthly progress reports by the first business day.

Qualifications

Required:

• Ph.D. in a scientific discipline.
• Progressive research and development experience.
• Advanced scientific reasoning and complex problem-solving ability.
• Demonstrated product development, patent support, and cross-functional R&D project leadership.
• Strong written and verbal scientific communication skills.
• Food or biotechnology industry experience.
• Extensive industrial enzyme application experience.

Preferred:

• Experience using GC, HPLC, and spectrophotometry.
• Ability to balance laboratory, administrative, and leadership responsibilities.
• Experience supervising and developing scientific personnel.

Other Details

Food safety concerns must be reported immediately through designated management channels.