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Postdoctoral In Food Chemistry Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Master's in Food Science, Chemistry or Biochemistry with 3+ years of relevant industrial experience * Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.

Food Safety Quality Associate Chemist

Fort Dodge, IA ยท On-site

$23.50 - $31/hr

This position is in our Food Enterprise where we are committed to serving food manufacturers, food ... Job Purpose and Impact The Food Safety Quality Associate Chemist, will ensure products meet or ...

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Postdoctoral In Food Chemistry information

What is a postdoctoral in food chemistry?

Postdoctoral positions in food chemistry are research-focused roles typically held by individuals who have recently completed their PhD in food science, chemistry, or a related field. These positions allow researchers to deepen their expertise, conduct independent or collaborative research, and contribute to scientific publications. Postdocs in food chemistry often work on projects related to food safety, quality, nutrition, or the development of new food products. They may also supervise students, write grant proposals, and present their findings at conferences. These roles are usually temporary, lasting one to three years, and are valuable stepping stones toward academic, industry, or government careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral in food chemistry?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Researcher in Food Chemistry, you need an advanced degree (PhD) in food chemistry or a related field, with a strong background in analytical techniques and experimental design. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation such as HPLC, GC-MS, NMR, and experience with data analysis software and scientific publishing are typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective scientific communication help distinguish top candidates in this research-intensive role. These skills are essential for producing high-quality research, advancing scientific knowledge, and contributing to academic and industry innovations in food science.

What are the typical research and collaboration opportunities for a postdoctoral in food chemistry?

As a Postdoctoral researcher in Food Chemistry, you'll often work on multidisciplinary projects that involve close collaboration with food scientists, biochemists, and industry partners. Your daily activities may include designing and conducting experiments, analyzing chemical components of foods, and presenting findings at group meetings or conferences. Many institutions encourage postdocs to mentor graduate students and participate in grant writing, which can help build valuable leadership and communication skills. These experiences not only expand your professional network but also prepare you for careers in academia, research, or the food industry.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral In Food Chemistry vs Food Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoral In Food ChemistryFood Scientist
Required CredentialsPh.D. in Food Chemistry or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch laboratories, academic institutionsFood manufacturing companies, research and development labs
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research-focused rolesIndustry-focused roles in food production and quality control
Common Search & Comparison IntentResearch, academic careers, postdoctoral opportunitiesIndustry careers, product development, quality assurance

While a Postdoctoral In Food Chemistry typically involves advanced research and academic pursuits with a Ph.D., a Food Scientist usually works in industry focusing on product development, quality control, and food safety. Both roles require knowledge of food chemistry, but their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral In Food Chemistry jobs in Iowa?

For Postdoctoral In Food Chemistry jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Postdoctoral In Food Chemistry jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Postdoctoral In Food Chemistry job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral In Food Chemistry job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Associate Scientist - Food Chemistry

Kemin

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Overview
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 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.
Join the Kemin Team and Transform Lives!
We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity and committed to transforming the quality of life for people, pets, and the planet.
We create solutions that strengthen health and wellbeing, provide nutrition and immune support for pets and production animals, safeguard the planet's natural resources, and protect the global food supply chain for generations to come.
We supply over 500 specialty ingredients for various industries, including human and animal health and nutrition, pet food, aquaculture, nutraceutical, food technologies, crop technologies, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines.
We employ 3,500 global employees and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Italy, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, and the United States.
As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your financial, physical, and professional well-being:
  • 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.

Responsibilities
  • 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 commercial 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 SOP's, research protocols and research methods; design safety procedures
  • Independently perform advanced data analysis and review other's 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.
  • Provides instruction and training to interns and junior staff.

Qualifications
  • Education
    • Bachelor's Food Science, Chemistry or Biochemistry with 7+ years of relevant industrial experience
    • Master's in Food Science, Chemistry or Biochemistry with 3+ years of relevant industrial 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.
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