Research Associate

At IFF, we go beyond traditional boundaries, combining science and creativity to build a more sustainable future. Together, we act as catalysts for positive change.

IFF is a global leader in biotechnology, delivering sustainable innovations across food, beverage, health, and biosciences. Our Health & Biosciences business applies expert science to develop bio-based solutions that support a growing global population while protecting our environment.

This role is based in Wilmington, DE, USA (on-site). You will join an experienced, collaborative, and innovation-driven team focused on host engineering, strain development, and molecular biology-driven product innovation.

Where You'll Make a Difference

• Design and execute laboratory experiments using advanced molecular biology techniques
• Engineer and construct microbial cell factories to support product innovation
• Contribute to strain development and optimization using modern genetic and cellular engineering tools
• Analyze and interpret biological data to improve performance in industrial applications
• Act as a key interface between Research & Development (R&D) and Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC) teams
• Collaborate cross-functionally to translate research insights into scalable solutions
• Maintain high standards of scientific rigor, reproducibility, and data integrity
• Document and communicate experimental findings through reports and presentations

What Makes You the Right Fit

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field
• Strong foundation in molecular biology and microbial physiology
• Hands-on laboratory experience with genetic manipulation and strain engineering
• Ability to work effectively across interdisciplinary teams, including R&D, Quality Analytics, and Quality Control
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate scientific insights clearly
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic R&D environment
• High attention to detail and commitment to high-quality data generation
• Curiosity and passion for scientific innovation

How Would You Stand Out?

• Experience in industrial biotechnology or applied microbiology environments
• Familiarity with scaling microbial processes or product development pipelines
• Exposure to quality systems, regulatory environments, or QA/QC collaboration

Why Choose Us?

• Work at the forefront of biotechnology innovation
• Be part of a global, inclusive, and purpose-driven organization
• Access opportunities for continuous learning and career growth
• Contribute to products that make a real impact in everyday life
• Collaborate with a highly experienced and supportive scientific team
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits

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 colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.

Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more