Research Chemist - Decatur, IL

Company: Archer Daniels Midland
Location: Decatur
Posted on: April 2, 2026

Job Description:

Research Chemist, Enzyme Development – Decatur, IL This is a full time, exempt position. ADM, a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural origination and processing company, has an opening for a Research Chemist in the Process Chemistry and Catalysis Group at our Corporate Research Center located in Decatur, IL Position summary We are looking for a scientist to assist in development and execution of new enzyme processes. The successful candidate will perform enzyme activity assays, enzyme and protein characterization, protein quantification and new method development, often using high-throughput lab robotics systems. Projects will relate to new and ongoing product and process developments involving enzyme applications. Under the direction of a manager, project leader, or senior scientist, this role will interact with a broad range of functions, including production, engineering, other Research teams, and ADM suppliers. Job responsibilities Perform all job functions in accordance with safety guidelines, and ensure that lab technicians, contract employees, and others follow ADM laboratory standards Generate data to support enzyme process development programs leading to advancement of product pipeline Develop experimental plans with a lead scientist to accomplish project goals Perform enzyme activity assays to support multiple research projects and product development Generate and analyze data using scientific and statistical techniques Communicate status updates on research activities verbally and through written reports and presentations Maintain proper housekeeping Construct and/or modify equipment according to experimental specifications and appropriate safety protocols Work both independently and within a diverse team to support process and product development Collaborate with internal colleagues, contractors, and suppliers and send clear, concise messages to share ideas, interpretations, and feedback Participate in safety reviews with colleagues on a variety of projects Skills and proficiencies Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical or Biological Engineering or related field Knowledge and experience with analytical instrumentation, especially UV-Vis, HPLC, FPLC or CE is a plus. Experience with enzyme activity assays or protein characterization methods such as SDS-PAGE, Bradford/BCA, or FPLC is a plus. Ability to execute sophisticated scientific experiments and document results Knowledge of safe hazardous material handling and hazardous communication requirements and procedures Professional experience using Microsoft Office software, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Outlook Ability to function independently while interacting with leadership, facility management, and contract employees Ability to troubleshoot and problem solve in a team environment Effective writing and oral communication skills, strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and able to maintain confidential information Able to safely lift and manipulate reactor systems up to 50 pounds, move gas cylinders, and use hand and power tools Excited about this role but don’t think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings. ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF:106362BR 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. IncludingYou Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM’s efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments — environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together. We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law Benefits and Perks Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including: 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). Additional benefits include: 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. *Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter. 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:

Keywords: Archer Daniels Midland, Springfield , Research Chemist - Decatur, IL, Science, Research & Development , Decatur, Illinois