Research Associate/Sr Research Associate

Novonesis; Franklinton (LA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with company contribution

Vacation & holidays

Wellness Time

Health insurance

HSA option

Parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Novonesis is seeking a Research Associate to support oils and fats analytical testing. You will analyze samples, run experiments, and deliver actionable results for customer projects and global product development.

The role emphasizes collaboration across regions and strong data interpretation. The position requires a Bachelor's degree in a science field, at least two years of lab experience, and proficiency with analytical assays and instruments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related scientific field.
• Minimum two years of laboratory experience.
• Hands-on experience with analytical assays and lab testing techniques.
• Ability to operate and troubleshoot lab equipment and instruments.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently within a team.

Responsibilities

• Analyze samples and support testing activities for projects across regions and functions.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments and analytical assays.
• Analyze and interpret data, delivering clear, concise results to stakeholders.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
• Take ownership of assigned projects and tasks while collaborating across teams.
• Balance multiple priorities in a dynamic environment while maintaining quality.
• Develop new skills, including digital tools and AI-enabled solutions.

Skills

Analytical testing

Lab equipment operation

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Analytical instruments

Job description

Interested in a career that matters?Are you passionate about science, problem-solving, and helping bring innovative solutions to the Oils and Fats industry? Join the Oils and Fats Application Research team in Franklinton, North Carolina, where your laboratory expertise will directly support customer projects and global new product development initiatives.As a Research Associate or Senior Research Associate , you'll play a critical role in a growing business area by delivering high-quality analytical insights and supporting research activities that help drive innovation and customer success. Working closely with scientists and stakeholders across regions and functions, you'll have opportunities to expand your technical capabilities while contributing to a collaborative and purpose-driven team.The Role & Your ImpactIn this hands-on laboratory role, you will support applied research and analytical testing activities across the Oils and Fats portfolio. You will be responsible for generating reliable data, communicating results to stakeholders, and contributing to projects that support both customers and innovation pipelines.Key responsibilities include:Analyze samples and support testing activities for projects across regions and functions within the Oils and Fats industry.Design and execute laboratory experiments and analytical assays.Analyze and interpret data, delivering clear, concise, and actionable results to stakeholders.Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.Take ownership of assigned projects and tasks while incorporating feedback and collaborating across teams.Balance multiple priorities in a dynamic environment while maintaining high-quality outcomes.Continuously develop new skills, including digitalization and AI-enabled tools, and proactively identify opportunities for improvement.What You'll Need to Be SuccessfulBachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Engineering, or a related scientific field.Minimum of two years of laboratory experience.Hands-on experience with analytical assays and laboratory testing techniques.Experience operating and troubleshooting laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.Excellent communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.Essential CompetenciesScientific curiosity and problem-solving ability.Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.Reliability and accountability.Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs).Positive attitude and collaborative mindset.Adaptability and willingness to learn new skills.Additional Skills & Interests We ValueExperience within the oils, fats, food, biotechnology, or related industries.Exposure to data analysis tools, digital laboratory systems, or AI-enabled technologies.Experience supporting product development or customer-facing technical projects.Interest in continuous improvement and laboratory process optimization.What We OfferAt Novonesis, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful scientific work while developing your skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.We offer:The opportunity to work on customer projects and global innovation initiatives.Exposure to diverse stakeholders across regions and functions.A collaborative team culture that values learning, ownership, and continuous improvement.Opportunities to expand your technical expertise and develop new capabilities, including digital and AI-related skills.The chance to make a direct impact in a business area that is supporting significant strategic growth.Ways of Working / Working ConditionsFull-time position with regular working hours (40 hours per week).No shift work required.Primarily on-site role based in Franklinton, North Carolina.Flexible working approach that supports work-life balance.Combination of laboratory-based and desktop-based work.Dynamic environment requiring collaboration, adaptability, and effective prioritization of multiple activities.Compensation & BenefitsExpected pay range: $55,000-$85,000Benefits you will enjoy:401(k) with up to a 9% company contributionMinimum of 3 weeks of vacation, 12 holidays, and 2 weeks of Wellness TimeHealth, Dental, Vision, and Life insuranceHealthcare Savings Account (HSA) optionEmployee Assistance ProgramParental leaveTuition reimbursementAll benefits begin on your first dayRelevant InformationApplication Deadline: September 22, 2026Our purpose guides the wayIn Novonesis, we know that solutions rooted in biology can help solve humanity’s biggest challenges. Since we began more than a century ago, this has been our guide. It’s how we've gotten so far. And it’s how we'll impact the future. Now, more than ever, the world needs change. And with biosolutions, the possibilities for transformation are endless. If our purpose resonates with you, we encourage you to apply.Opportunities for everyoneWe are committed to an inclusive recruitment process and equal opportunity for all applicants. Therefore we ask you to apply without a cover letter or photo and instead include a few sentences in your CV explaining your motivation for applying.We make all employment decisions based on business needs and welcome candidates with a wide range of backgrounds, including ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status.Explore other openingsIf this position isn’t the right fit, you may still find other opportunities with us. You’re welcome to explore open roles or create a job agent to stay connected with future opportunities at novonesis.com/Career