ADM · 22 hours ago
Senior Research Scientist - Decatur, IL
ADM is a global leader in human and animal nutrition, providing access to nutrition worldwide. In this role, you will lead research and development projects focused on carbohydrate and starch science, collaborating with cross-functional teams to create innovative solutions for new product development.
Responsibilities
Lead and drive research and development (R&D) projects with a focus on carbohydrate and starch science, ensuring alignment with business goals and delivering innovative solutions for new product development and applications
Collaborate cross-functionally with process development, applications, and commercial teams to translate scientific insights into actionable business opportunities
Apply deep expertise in carbohydrate chemistry to identify, design, and develop innovative ingredients and functional solutions that address customer needs and drive future business growth
Design and execute robust experimental plans to investigate the functionality, interactions, and performance of carbohydrate ingredients in diverse applications, including non-food sectors
Perform chemical and physical modifications of carbohydrate raw materials using technologies such as chemical reactors, extruders, and conventional mixing systems
Lead and coordinate cross-disciplinary project teams using gated project management methodologies to ensure timely delivery of milestones and objectives
Utilize advanced statistical tools and design of experiments (DOE) software to optimize experimental designs, analyze data, and derive actionable insights
Employ advanced analytical techniques (e.g., NMR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and imaging technologies) to uncover molecular interactions, structural properties, and functional performance of carbohydrate systems
Utilize advanced rheological techniques and instrumentation (e.g., rheometers, dynamic mechanical analyzers, and viscometers) to investigate flow behavior, viscoelastic properties, and functional performance of carbohydrate systems in complex formulations
Present research findings and project updates through well-organized written reports, technical presentations, and verbal communications to diverse audiences
Ensure safe working practices in research labs, pilot plants, and manufacturing facilities to meet or exceed safety goals
Qualification
Required
PhD or Master's degree in Organic Chemistry, Materials Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field
At least 5 years of industrial experience in biobased materials and sustainability, including but not limited to packaging and papers, construction, fermentation, plant care, and home and personal care industries
Industry experience in starch, cellulose, and other natural products
Expertise and hands-on experience with extrusion of natural products, including complex carbohydrates, is strongly desired
Knowledge and experience with a wide range of analytical instrumentation and carbohydrate characterization methods
Understanding of safe hazardous material handling and hazardous communication requirements and procedures
Proficiency in statistical software, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and other Microsoft Office tools
Ability to travel up to 20%
Benefits
Physical wellness – medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
Financial wellness – flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers’ compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
Mental and social wellness – Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
Paid time off including paid holidays.
Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
Tuition assistance.
Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.
Company
ADM
ADM unlocks the power of nature to enrich the quality of life.
H1B Sponsorship
ADM has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (119)
2024 (135)
2023 (96)
2022 (109)
2021 (69)
2020 (68)
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
unknown1978-01-13IPO
Leadership Team
Recent News
2025-12-16
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