R&D Research Associate Research & Development

Professional Areas Research & DevelopmentLouis Dreyfus Company is a leading merchant and processor of agricultural goods. We span the entire value chain from farm to fork across a broad range of business lines. Structured as a matrix organization of six geographical regions and ten platforms, we are active in over 100 countries and employ approximately 18,000 people globally.Job DescriptionPerform basic biotechnology experiments and collect and document research data in compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).Plan, manage, and execute plant protein research from bench to pilot scale following established procedures and protocols.Collaborate with product development, process engineering, and analytics to ensure timely delivery of project milestones.Apply learning from patent landscape and public research to short-, mid-, and long-term in-house and external partner collaborative projects.Coordinate with scientists and senior scientists to develop innovative methods of plant protein isolation and characterization processes and translate them into successful experimental plans and execution.Operate equipment to characterize proximate composition and functionality of a variety of plant protein sources.Conduct data visualization and statistical analysis of experimental results, interpret findings, and communicate them to the R&D team and business units.ExperienceBachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, chemical engineering, or related field, with 2+ years of experience in a similar field.Master's degree in the above fields, with 1+ year of experience.Basic laboratory experience.2–4 years of previous job experience in biotechnology or food-tech industry (preferred).A genuine desire to work in plant-based ingredients and food space.Knowledge of basic protein chemistry, extraction techniques, and proximate characterization techniques.Understanding of QA/QC, microbial safety, and sensory properties of proteins and food products.Proficiency in analytical methods such as rheology, texture analysis, particle size, SDS-PAGE, etc., for characterizing plant proteins and their use in food and beverage systems (preferred).Physical and Safety RequirementsPosition is safety-sensitive and subject to random drug testing.Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.Ability to climb stairs and ladders; work at heights.Ability to work in confined spaces.Ability to work in a variety of temperatures and potential inclement weather.Ability to move manufacturing materials, products, and equipment of 50 pounds or more, requiring bending and lifting.Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in accordance with policies and procedures.Ability to work in fast-paced lab environments.Equipment UsedTypical office equipment: PC, printer, scanner.Lab equipment: centrifuge, beakers, reactors, pH meters, and other instruments.Data visualization software (e.g., Power BI, Microsoft Office, LIMS).Working ConditionsTime split between pilot plant, office, and lab environments; may involve extended periods of sitting or standing at a computer screen or counter.Interaction with personnel in other departments and company locations.Interaction with middle and senior management personnel.Occasional extensions of regular working hours to meet time-sensitive projects or respond to emergencies.What We OfferComprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, and vision care coverage, flexible spending account plans, employee assistance program, life insurance, and disability coverage.401(k) with company match.Family-friendly benefits including childbirth and parental leave, fertility and family-building benefits.Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays.Flexible work available (not applicable to all roles).Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)Louis Dreyfus Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.SustainabilitySustainable value is at the heart of our purpose as a company. We are passionate about creating fair and sustainable value, both for our business and for other value-chain stakeholders: our people, our business partners, the communities we touch and the environment around us.J-18808-Ljbffr