Protein Research Manager - Decatur, IL

Illinois Ag; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

401K/ESOP

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Job summary

Illinois Ag is seeking a Protein Research Manager in Decatur, IL, to lead ingredient development and collaborate with teams. Key responsibilities include managing R&D projects, mentoring scientists, and enhancing analytical methodologies for plant-based proteins. A Master’s or PhD in Food Science and over 5 years of experience in plant protein research are required. The position offers a full benefit package including relocation assistance to Decatur, IL, and emphasizes diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in plant protein research.
• Experience in ingredient development from bench scale to commercial scale.
• Experience translating techno-functional properties of protein ingredients into food applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and advise on the development of protein solutions.
• Manage and mentor scientists in R&D.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to accelerate innovation.

Skills

Ingredient development

Strong project management capabilities

Understanding of structure-function relationships in plant proteins

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Education

M.S. or Ph.D. in Food Science, Food Engineering, or related field

Job description

### Job Details#### Job Title:Protein Research Manager - Decatur, IL #### Location:, , , #### Company: #### Industry Sector: #### Industry Type: #### Career Type: #### Job Type:Full Time #### Minimum Years Experience Required:N/A #### Salary: ### Get Job Alerts**Career Type:** **Country:** USAI agree to receive alerts from and to the .Your alert was created successfully.×## General Alert Saved* The listings below are jobs matching the criteria you've selected for your General Alert on . Criteria selected was:* General alert saved for .* General alert notifications will be sent weekly on Monday.* Please note that you can only have one general alert active at any given time. Creating a new general alert will override an existing general alert.* Visit the to manage your alerts# Protein Research Manager - Decatur, IL| Number of Years Experience: \* | | Minimum Education Completed: \* | || Education Major / Discipline Category: \* | | Most Recent / Current Occupation: \* | |**Job Description** **Manager, Protein Research - Decatur, IL** We are seeking a highly skilled Protein Research Manager to lead ingredient development and optimization while collaborating with cross-functional teams and external partners to drive open innovation and support growth in protein nutrition solutions. In this role, you will play a critical part in advancing ADM's research and development efforts in plant-based ingredients. Your primary responsibilities will include leading new protein ingredient development projects, driving structure-function characterization, and executing optimization and productivity initiatives to achieve commercial success. This position reports to the Global R&D Director for Alternative Proteins within the Human Nutrition Research team. It is based on-site in Decatur, IL, and may require up to 15-25% travel. **Key Responsibilities*** Lead and advise on the discovery and development of scalable protein solutions for the food industry* Drive and execute projects focused on protein portfolio diversification aligned with ADM's Specialty Ingredients strategy* Manage and mentor scientists while collaborating with internal and external stakeholders on the development, analysis, and optimization of protein solutions* Develop and refine structure-function analytical methodologies for ingredient characterization* Lead and execute competitive intelligence initiatives for protein ingredients* Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, analytical and sensory teams, formulators, as well as regulatory, marketing, and commercial functions to accelerate innovation* Manage external research collaborations to support the protein innovation and growth pipeline* Develop and execute CAPEX plans for the protein R&D team* Support internal and external training programs related to protein ingredients* Lead initiatives to expand R&D analytical capabilities for Specialized Nutrition and Savory markets* Champion laboratory safety by ensuring compliance with safety protocols, documentation and training* Utilize R&D project management systems and ensure clear stakeholder communication**Qualifications Education & Experience*** M.S. or Ph.D. in Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related field* 5+ years of experience in plant protein research**Technical Expertise*** Strong expertise in ingredient development, from bench scale through pilot and commercial scale-up* Deep understanding of structure-function relationships in plant proteins (preferable soy and/or pea)* Experience translating techno-functional properties of protein ingredients into food applications**Other Skills & Attributes*** Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across functions* Strong project management capabilities, including leading multiple initiatives and managing teams* Proactive, results-driven mindset with a passion for innovation and problem-solving**Employee Perks and Benefits:*** Relocation assistance to Decatur IL is available with this position if needed.* This position offers a complete benefit package, including 401K/ESOP, pension, health, life, vision, and dental insurance.* ADM requires the successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and a background check.* ADM is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability and veterans' status ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF:108435BR **#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 lawTo apply please click on APPLY TO THIS POSITIONJob Post Date: 04/29/26Here are some other jobs you may be interested in applying for.| | || --- | --- || Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) Chicago, Illinois | Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) Decatur, Illinois || Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) Decatur, Illinois | |1 person is interested in this job.