Scientist II, R&D Color Ingredients - Erlanger, KY

About the role

This is a full-time exempt position, on site at ADM, a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural origination and processing company. We have an opening for a Scientist R&D color ingredients at our Research center located in Erlanger, Kentucky.

Job Purpose

In this role, the Scientist will propose and lead color R&D projects to develop new and/or improved natural color solutions in alignment with business goals. This role requires proven track record of color R&D expertise and successful development of color solutions from bench to larger scale. The Scientist will provide key input to our color strategy through horizon scanning and evaluation of emerging technical solutions and capabilities in the color innovation space. The incumbent will also play a key role in sharing technical knowledge across the organization and mentoring other colleagues.

Job Responsibilities

• Plan, organize and execute research and development projects to explore and develop new and/or improved natural color solutions for food and beverage applications, aligned with business ambition and in compliance with our stage gate project management process.
• Carry out color development lab experiments (e.g. botanical extractions, natural product chemistry experiments etc), analyze data and effectively communicate results to team members.
• Conduct color characterization experiments and measurements incl. UV-VIS spectrophotometry, colorimetry and shelf-life stability studies. Analyze and interpret data to draw meaningful conclusions and guide decision-making.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g. application scientists, product development, regulatory, procurement, business) to identify technical gaps and participate in the identification of potential opportunities in the color innovation space to develop relevant color solutions.
• Lead, mentor and develop a team of technicians and foster a culture of collaboration.
• Horizon-scan of scientific literature, technologies and industry trends to evaluate emerging color solutions and recommend relevant technical capabilities.
• Identify potential intellectual property.
• Responsible for R&D color lab equipment needed for day-to-day operations and lab/workplace safety. Make recommendations for capital project investment.
• Ensure compliance with lab safety regulation (local trainings, safety documentation, internal and external audits) and regulatory standards.
• Contribute to culture of excellent communication, information sharing, collaboration and relationships within and outside R&D.

Job specifications/qualifications

• PhD. and 1+ years or Masters and 4+ years of industry experience in Chemistry, Food Science, Biotechnology, Biochemistry or related fields.
• Knowledge of color science and color characterization techniques including UV-VIS spectrophotometry, colorimetry and shelf-life stability studies for food and beverage applications.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proven experience in project management including the development of color solutions from ideation/benchtop to production scale.
• Knowledge of Regulatory bodies.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaborate with global teams with strong communication skills.
• Experience working in accordance with good laboratory practices and adhere to safety standards and practices.
• Ability to deliver scientific, clear, compelling, and effective technical presentations to audiences that include but are not limited to management, commercial teams, customers, research teams and other stakeholders.
• Proficient in standard computer programs (e.g. Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Powerpoint).
• Ability to contribute in a dynamic and collaborative research environment.

Benefits and Perks

• 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.

About ADM

At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We’re a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.

Req/Job ID

110174BR