Senior Research & Development Manager

Join Kemin, a global leader in the ingredient industry, as we expand our footprint and seek a Senior Research and Development Manager. This exciting position plays a critical role within our Kemin Nutrisurance organization, focusing on creating new palatants and proteins. You’ll enjoy working with an experienced leadership team as well as research teams around the world.

As a Senior Scientist, you will be the technical lead on multiple projects and cross-functional teams, driving the planning, development, and implementation of research studies. Your expertise will contribute to product launches and the development of new intellectual property, making a significant impact on our innovative journey.  

The role is based in Des Moines, Iowa, with relocation assistance available.

We Are Kemin 

We are visionaries who see things differently and are inspired by the world around us.  

We have been dedicated to using applied science to improve the quality of life for over half a century.   

We are a global ingredient manufacturer that strives to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the world with its products and services.  

For over half a century, Kemin has been dedicated to using applied science to address industry challenges and offer product solutions to customers in more than 120 countries. Kemin provides ingredients to feed a growing population with its commitment to the quality, safety and efficacy of food, feed and health-related products to customers in more than 120 countries.   

Established in 1961, Kemin is a privately held, family-owned-and-operated company with more than 2,800 global employees and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, India, Italy, Russia, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa and the United States.

As a Kemin team member, you’ll receive…  

• A competitive financial package- in addition to your salary, we offer an uncapped bonus opportunity, 401k match program, and paid vacation and holidays. 
• Robust health and wellness support- we are proud to offer a fitness reimbursement (for your whole family!), an on-site fitness center, restaurant with seasonal fresh food options (and the ability to order food to bring home), and free fresh fruit in break areas- to name a few.  

• Continued learning opportunities- Kemin offers tuition reimbursement and recently launched a new corporate university with online and in-person training opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.  
• The chance to give back to our world- Through our foundation of servant leadership, we are proud to offer ample service opportunities, including paid time off to do so. Kemin has a valued corporate partnership with both The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, in addition to many local initiatives. 
• Opportunities to support our valued educators- Kemin is a proud sponsor of the Iowa Governor's Stem Advisory Council where we fund annual teacher's awards. In addition, we have a robust internship and externship program, and frequently host student tours.  

• Develop and execute laboratory experiments; coach others in laboratory experiments; troubleshoot issues with lab equipment and instrumentation.
• Formulate and develop new palatants.
• Perform literature reviews for new areas of Kemin that get incorporated into strategy.
• Independently develop and review research plans, SOP’s, research protocol and safety procedures.
• Provide instruction and training to team members.
• Assist direct reports with creating SMART goals, development plans and coach direct reports to reach goals.
• Independently generate scientific publications for internal and external publications.
• Present both internal and external research reports in multiple formats. Lead execution of complex reports and translate insights into actionable recommendations.
• Review internal publications across Kemin as well as external for scientific journals.
• Independently identify and lead external research collaborations to obtain new intellectual property.
• Participate with management to lead and drive strategic planning process and decisions and manage research budget for area of focus.
• Participate in customer meetings by leading a focus area or area of expertise.
• Data Collection & Analysis
• Independently conduct advanced data analysis; review other’s data analysis for accuracy, thoroughness and compliance.
• Coach others on the proper analysis needed for different projects.
• Develop or find innovative data analysis methods needed for projects.

• Education & Work Experience:
  • PhD in Flavor Chemistry, Food Science, or Chemical Engineering with 7+ years' experience in Palatants
  • Masters degree in Flavor Chemistry, Food Science, or Chemical Engineering with 10+ years' experience in Palatants
• Superb attention to detail; produces work of exceptional quality and accuracy.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment; able to manage competing priorities.
• Excellent scientific skills in experiment design and data collection with ability to perform advanced statistical analysis.
• Very strong analytical and problem solving skills with a strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking.
• Ability to proactively identify issues and address with solutions-oriented approach.
• Proven interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills; excellent time management skills.
• Advanced computer knowledge (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, etc.).
• Fluent in English, both written and oral.

A post-offer background check and drug screen is required.  Additional pre-employment requirements may be necessary based on position.

Kemin is an equal opportunity employer, and all reasonable accommodations will be considered.

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Kemin is a drug-free and tobacco-free campus.