Associate Scientist - Food Chemistry

About the role

Kemin Industries’ Food Technologies business unit is seeking an Associate Scientist to join a team of experienced researchers and strengthen the chemistry foundation behind ingredient-innovation initiatives. We are looking for a scientist with a background in Food Chemistry or Chemistry (with relevant industry experience) focused on general chemistry as it applies to food systems. This role will develop new ingredients, establish SOPs, create analytical methods and food models, and apply instrumental and organic chemistry to identify functional molecules—with an emphasis on natural sources. The ideal candidate balances scientific rigor with creativity, connecting deep molecular understanding to practical, commercially viable solutions. Working alongside microbiology and application scientists, this individual will anchor the team with chemistry expertise and help drive clean-label, affordable ingredient innovation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute chemical assays and food model testing for ingredient evaluation.
• Independently conduct innovative scientific experiments and translate research into practical applications.
• Perform pilot-plant operations to support process scale-up and optimization.
• Perform literature reviews and provide written summaries that are incorporated into strategy.
• Identify and deliver commercially viable solutions to customers.
• Communicate effectively and display cross-functional collaboration to drive successful product commercialization.
• Reliably and consistently deliver high-quality data and reports on time.
• Independently develop and review SOPs, research protocols, and research methods; design safety procedures.
• Independently perform advanced data analysis and review others’ data to provide input and insight.
• Independently collect, interpret, and document research data.
• Generate scientific publications for internal and external publication, with guidance and review.
• Prepare and present data analytics and research in multiple formats both internally and externally.
• Review internal publications across Kemin.
• Identify and participate in external research collaborations.
• Contribute to strategic planning process and customer meetings.
• Provide instruction and training to interns and junior staff.

Qualifications

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s in Food Science, Chemistry, or Biochemistry with 7+ years of relevant industrial experience.
  • Master’s in Food Science, Chemistry, or Biochemistry with 3+ years of relevant industrial experience.
• Ability to work independently or on a team and thrive in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
• Solid knowledge foundation in food chemistry (especially polyphenols, phytochemicals, colorants) and hands-on lab experience in food and chemical analysis.
• Strong understanding of food ingredient functionalities, interactions, and core food-processing principles.
• Excellent scientific skills in experiment design and data collection; able to maintain instruments.
• Detail-oriented, organized, with strong prioritization skills and motivation by accomplishment.
• Ability to understand and perform advanced statistical analysis.
• Analytical lab skills with strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking.
• Fluent in English with excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to present ideas effectively.
• Advanced computer proficiency (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, etc.).