Molecular Modeling Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kemin Industries Food Technologies business unit is seeking an Associate Scientist to join our team of experienced researchers and help strengthen the chemistry foundation behind our ingredient‑innovation initiatives.

We are seeking a scientist with a background in Food Science, Food Chemistry, or Chemistry with relevant industry experience, focused on general chemistry as it applies to food systems. This role will focus on developing new ingredients, establishing SOPs, creating analytical methods and food models, and applying instrumental and organic chemistry to identify functional molecules, with an emphasis on natural sources.

This position requires someone who can balance scientific rigor with creativity, connecting deep molecular understanding to practical, commercially viable solutions. Working alongside microbiology and application scientists, this individual will anchor the team with chemistry expertise and help drive clean‑label, affordable ingredient innovation. The ideal candidate is motivated by real‑world impact and excited to translate chemistry into meaningful advancements for the food industry.

• Competitive Financial Package: Enjoy a rewarding salary, uncapped bonus opportunities, a 401k match program, and generous paid vacation and holidays.
• Health and Wellness Support: Stay fit and healthy with our fitness reimbursement for the whole family, access to an on‑site fitness center, a restaurant offering seasonal fresh food options, and free fresh fruit in break areas.
• Career Development and Advancement: Unlock your potential with opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.
• Continued Learning Opportunities: Grow your skills with our in‑house learning platforms, offering thousands of training resources both live and online, and take advantage of tuition reimbursement for external post‑secondary pursuits.
• Service Opportunities: Make a positive impact with paid time off for service, partnerships with The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, and local community initiatives.

• Develop and execute chemical assays and food model testing for ingredient evaluation.
• Independently conduct innovative scientific experiments and translate research into practical applications.
• Perform pilot‑plant operations to support process scale‑up and optimization.
• Perform literature reviews and provide written summaries that are incorporated into strategy.
• Identify and deliver commercially viable solutions to customers.
• Communicate effectively and display cross‑functional collaboration to drive successful product commercialization.
• Reliable and consistently deliver high‑quality data and reports on time.
• Independently develop and review SOPs, research protocols and research methods; design safety procedures.
• Independently perform advanced data analysis and review others’ data to provide input and insight.
• Independently collect, interpret and document research data.
• Generate scientific publications for internal and external publication, with guidance and review.
• Prepare and present data analytics and research in multiple formats both internally and externally.
• Review internal publication across Kemin.
• Identify and participate in external research collaborations.
• Contribute to strategic planning process and customer meetings.
• Provide instruction and training to interns and junior staff.

• Education
  • Master's in Food Science, Chemistry or Biochemistry with 3+ years of relevant industrial experience
  • PhD with 0-3 years experience.
• Must be able to work independently or on a team and have the ability to work in a fast‑paced multidisciplinary environment.
• Solid knowledge foundation in food chemistry (especially on polyphenols, phytochemicals, colorants, etc.), and hands on lab experience in food and chemical analysis.
• Strong understanding of food ingredient functionalities, interactions, and core food‑processing principles.
• Excellent scientific skills in experiment design and data collection, able to maintain instruments.
• Detail oriented, organized, prioritization skills and motivated by accomplishment.
• Ability to understand and perform advanced statistical analysis.
• Analytical lab skills with a strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking.
• Fluent in English. Excellent written and oral communication skills with ability to present ideas effectively.
• Advanced computer knowledge (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, etc.).

We are an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed/religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status (where applicable), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy/childbirth/breastfeeding or related conditions, age (40+), disability (including the use of a service animal), genetic information, marital status, familial or caregiver status, military or veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, reproductive health decision‑making, and any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also prohibit retaliation for raising concerns or participating in an EEO process. Applicants who need a reasonable accommodation to apply or interview can email TalentAcquisition.US@Kemin.com.

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

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