Job Abstract

Research Associate - Palo Alto, CA

IFF, Health and Biosciences Division is looking for an entry level Research Associate to join our Molecular & Microbiology R&D team at the Genencor Technology Center in Palo Alto, CA.
At IFF Health & Biosciences, our Biotechnology R&D team develops microbial strains (bacteria, yeast, and filamentous fungi) as products and production hosts for applications in the areas of food & beverages, biofuels, home & personal care, agriculture, animal feed, paper & textile processing, and more. We have a strong focus on providing sustainable solutions on an industrial scale, and we are constantly evolving and innovating to offer competitive high-end products to our international customers.

For this position, we are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated researcher to join our Molecular & Microbiology group.  A strong interest in conducting microbiology-based experiments and an ability to execute basic molecular biology tasks is required.

The work will involve one or more aspects of the following:

• Media preparation, culturing, plating, and assessing viability of microbes,
• Performing a range of microbe-based efficacy assays,
• Basic molecular biology tasks such as cloning, DNA sequencing and microbial transformation,
• Staying current with relevant scientific and intellectual literature,
• Collaborating with team and contributing to workflows that require integration of a wide range of skills and expertise,
• Preparing and presenting technical reports, data summaries, protocols, and other technical documentations.

• B.S degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Molecular Genetics, Synthetic Biology, Biotechnology or similar, preferably with 1-3 years of experience in an academic lab or internships,
• Experience with microbiology-based experiments preferred,
• Molecular biology experience preferred,
• Hands-on mentality, and strong affinity for lab work,
• Attention to detail in daily work, 
• Eagerness to continuously learn and investigate,
• Collaborative mindset and excellent teamwork skills,
• Self-drive with strong organizational skills and ability to work independently,
• Excellent time management skills,
• Goal oriented and can-do attitude,
• Good communication, presentation, and networking skills.

We offer:

• Position in a team of creative and highly skilled scientists,
• A dynamic work environment created by inclusive and multicultural team,
• The opportunity to grow professionally and to develop a career in Biotechnology,
• Competitive salary and attractive compensation and benefits,
• Flexible working hours.

While we are interested in all qualified candidates with the potential to work in the United States, we are not able to sponsor visas. Additionally, to qualify for this position, you must be proficient in English, including reading, writing, and verbal communication.

At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of 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…