Automation Scientist I - Decatur, IL

Scientist (I), High-throughput screening – Decatur, IL
ADM Research & Development
This is an exempt level position.

Position summary
ADM Cell Engineering is looking for a results-driven and detail-oriented High Throughput Screening (HTS) scientist to add to our team! In this role, the successful candidate will execute 96 well plate microfermentations, plate-based growth screens and perform enzyme assays to measure and rank genetically engineered strains. Contributions by this scientist will play an important role in advancing scientific discovery!

Responsibilities include operating automated liquid handling systems, preparing and running assays, managing workflows that contain up to thousands of samples in 96 and 384-well plates, and generating high-quality phenotypic data.

Success in this role comes from combining attention to detail with good organizational skills and a proactive mindset. This scientist will work closely with the automation and fermentation teams to identify potential sources of variability, help resolve experimental challenges, and support the generation of high-quality, reliable data.

Those who enjoy working as part of a collaborative and results-driven team, and are passionate about conducting impactful research are encouraged to apply

Job responsibilities

• Conduct end-to-end HTS workflows, including microfermentations, sample processing, and metabolite quantification using automated liquid handling systems
• Follow established protocols to help ensure high-quality, consistent results
• Help maintain the availability and readiness of consumables and reagents prior to workflow execution
• Contribute to the development, optimization, and implementation of HTS methods and processes
• Collaborate with team members on a variety of high-throughput activities
• Assist with liquid handler setup, tear down, and routine maintenance
• Promote a safe working environment by following safety practices and procedures

Desired qualifications:

• MSc or BSc with 1-4 years of relevant experience in biochemistry, chemistry, biotechnology or a related field
• Relevant hands-on laboratory experience through academic research, internships, or industry experience
• Experience growing microorganisms and monitoring their growth over time, in scales from 200 uL to 50 mL, and running metabolite/enzymatic/biochemical assays
• Good quantitative skills, and ability to perform basic scientific calculations and data quality checks
• Good aseptic practices with an important focus on preventing sample mix-ups and contamination
• Experience with automated liquid handling systems is preferred
• Ability to use LIMS, ELNs and a track record of excellent documentation

Additional skills and attributes

• Great attention to detail and commitment to generating accurate, high-quality data
• Ability to notice and identify inconsistencies, question unexpected results, and participate in root cause investigations
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills
• Good written and verbal communication
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment

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- Sara Cleto
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.