Research Scientist III, Material Science - Decatur, IL

Research Scientist III, Material Science - Decatur, IL
ADM Research & Development.
This is an exempt level position.

Position Summary
The Material Science R&D team is seeking an innovative and highly motivated Research Scientist III, Material Science to accelerate ingredient innovation across ADM's portfolio of food and non-food solutions. This role will leverage material science principles and advanced characterization techniques to establish structure-function relationships that enable differentiated products, process improvements, and new technology development.

The successful candidate will serve as a technical expert within cross-functional innovation teams and will apply scientific rigor, creativity, and data-driven approaches to solve complex technical challenges. This individual will drive research projects from concept through implementation while collaborating with colleagues across R&D, Operations, and Commercial teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, analyze, and interpret experiments using advanced materials characterization techniques to understand ingredient structure-function relationships.
• Utilize advanced analytical tools and characterization techniques including light and electron microscopy, particle characterization, spectroscopy, thermal analysis, rheology, and surface characterization techniques
• Apply advanced electron and light microscopy methods, including sample preparation, imaging, and microstructural analysis, to characterize food ingredients and materials, solve technical challenges, and support R&D and commercial projects
• Develop, validate, and implement analytical methods, procedures, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Perform routine instrument maintenance, troubleshooting, and coordination of external service activities as needed
• Apply statistical analysis and Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies to optimize experimental design and data interpretation
• Lead research projects independently and contribute to multidisciplinary teams using stage-gate innovation process
• Identify emerging technologies, scientific trends, and competitive opportunities through literature reviews, patent analysis, and technical scouting
• Effectively communicate technical results through reports, presentations, and stakeholder updates.
• Collaborate across functional teams to drive project success and accelerate innovation
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance laboratory capabilities, efficiency, and scientific excellence
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and electronic documentation in accordance with company policies
• Champion a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with laboratory safety procedures and policies

Job Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline with 0-3 years relevant industrial experience; or M.S. degree with 5+ years of relevant industrial research experience
• Demonstrated experience applying advanced characterization techniques to understand structure-function relationships in complex material systems
• Strong knowledge of material science characterization techniques and correlation with ingredient functionality
• Experience with image analysis software, advanced data analytics, multivariate statistical tools, DOEs, and data-driven experimental design
• Experience in food ingredients, biobased materials, proteins, carbohydrates, hydrocolloids, emulsions, or other complex ingredient systems
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced research environment.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and technical communication skills
• Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.
• Commitment to laboratory safety and scientific excellence

 

Before applying for an exempt, non-exempt or hourly job opportunity, you are expected to initiate a discussion and share your intentions with your supervisor.  * If you’ve been in your current position for more than 18 months, supervisor approval is not required.  * If you’ve been in your current position for less than 18 months, verbal supervisor approval is required.  

​Hiring Manager- Elizabeth Stensrud   ​
Recruiter- Dana Richter

Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.

If hired, employees will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

The pay range for this position is expected to be between:

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.