Assoc Scientist Microbiome & Hygiene- Lexington, MA

Associate Scientist – Microbiome & Hygiene Location: Lexington, MA dsm-firmenich is seeking a motivated and collaborative Associate Scientist with a background in microbiome/microbiology research to join our Microbiome & Hygiene team. This role supports research and innovation across the microbiome space. The ideal candidate will contribute to experimental design, lab execution, and data interpretation in a dynamic, cross-functional environment. Key Responsibilities: * Support and execute laboratory research focused on the role of the microbiome in human health and beauty to enable and deliver innovative solutions to our businesses. * Perform microbiological and molecular biology techniques, including microbial culturing, DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, and DNA/RNA sequencing. * Assist in developing and optimizing assays for microbiome and host interaction studies. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate microbiome data with other ‘omics’ (e.g. metagenomics, metabolomics, transcriptomics, proteomics) and clinical datasets. * Maintain accurate records, analyze data, and contribute to internal reports, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations. * Provide technical guidance and support to team members. * Help with general lab maintenance as needed. We Offer: * Empowerment to make meaningful contributions while upholding ethical standards. * Recognition and celebration of your efforts and accomplishments. * Opportunities for growth and advancement for those who embrace innovation and take initiative. * Collaboration with experts in health, nutrition, and beauty to drive progress. * Dedication to creating better futures for customers, communities, people, and the planet. * Supportive environment where individuals are empowered to progress and contribute to meaningful change. You Bring: * MSc in micro/molecular biology with 1-2 years of experience, or in a closely related life science field; or BSc with 3-5 years of experience required. * Hands-on experience with microbiome-related techniques, including anaerobic microbial culture and molecular biology methods. * Experience with microbial strain libraries or culture-based assay development is desirable, as well as molecular biology approaches (i.e. PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, sequencing). * Experienced and comfortable working in BL2 settings and with BL2 samples. * Basic data analysis skills; experience with R is a plus. * Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills. * Effective communication and teamwork abilities in a multidisciplinary setting. * Ability to work under deadlines and be agile with timelines. The salary or hourly wage scale provided reflects the pay range dsm-firmenich expects to pay the successful candidate for the position. Individual pay offered will be based on the applicant’s job-related skills, experience, relevant education, or training, and primary work location. This position is also eligible for bonuses and benefits, which are not included in the pay scale provided. Salary $100,000-$120,000. In addition to base salary, we also offer a comprehensive total rewards package, inclusive of annual incentive pay, a retirement savings plan, health care coverage, paid time off, recognition programs and a broad range of other benefits. All benefits and incentives are subject to eligibility requirements. About dsm-firmenich At dsm-firmenich, we don’t just meet expectations – we go beyond them. Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life. From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions – every single day. Whether it’s fragrance that helps you focus, alternative meat that’s better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health, and beauty for everyone, everywhere. And while you’re making a difference, we’ll make sure you’re growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They’re essential to our future. Because real progress only happens when we go beyond, together. The application process Interested in this position? Please apply online by uploading your resume in English. Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong. We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you. And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work. Agency statement We’re managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If you’re applying as an individual, we’d love to hear from you. We’re not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role.