Research Associate

Are you excited to use molecular biology and microbiology to help develop bio-based solutions for a more sustainable future? IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and health & biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products. Health & Biosciences channels our passion for nature and bioscience into sustainable, life-enhancing technologies that power innovative solutions across healthcare, food, consumer and industrial markets. The role is based in Wilmington, Delaware, United States and follows an Anchor hybrid work model . Because this position is predominantly laboratory based, regular on-site presence is an important part of the role. Join an experienced, collaborative and detail-oriented team of scientists supporting microbial host construction, host improvement and product development projects. Together, you will apply science and creativity to construct microbial cell factories and understand and optimize their performance in relevant industrial applications. Where You’ll Make a Difference Contribute to project workstreams that evaluate the performance of microbial cell factories and their products in relevant industrial applications. Construct and modify microbial strains using modern molecular biology and cell biology techniques. Support the analysis, optimization and improvement of microbial cell factories based on project goals and experimental data. Conduct laboratory work in alignment with project direction, established protocols and scientific quality standards. Collaborate with scientists and cross-functional project partners to deliver project objectives. Explore, evaluate and implement new methods and technologies with the project team. Generate, analyze and clearly communicate high-quality experimental data. Prepare technical reports, data summaries, presentations, protocols and other technical or regulatory documents. What Makes You the Right Fit A strong foundation in molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology and microbial physiology. Hands-on laboratory experience in molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry or a related scientific discipline. Ability to produce consistent, high-quality experimental data with strong attention to detail. Demonstrated ability to collaborate as part of a cross-functional team and contribute to defined project goals. Ability to organize work, manage multiple experimental activities and deliver tasks against project priorities. Willingness to learn new scientific skills, methods and technologies. Clear written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to summarize scientific data and findings. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a dynamic research and development environment. How Would You Stand Out? A bachelor’s or master’s degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry or a related scientific field. One to three years of research experience in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry or a related area. Experience with microbial strain construction, host improvement or the evaluation of microbial cell factories. Why Choose Us? Work at the intersection of biotechnology, sustainability and industrial innovation. Gain hands-on experience with modern molecular and cellular biology methods. Collaborate with an experienced scientific team on host construction, improvement and product development projects. Access opportunities to learn new scientific methods, technologies and approaches. Join an inclusive workplace where different perspectives and experiences are valued. We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our