Part-Time Research Associate

Were growing fast and looking for people who want to be part of something bold and impactful. Our team works with purpose and pride guided by the core values that shape our culture:

Safety We are committed to maintaining a safe responsible and healthy environment for all.

Quality From process to product we hold ourselves to the highest standards.

Respect We foster a workplace where every voice matters and collaboration thrives.

Transparency We communicate clearly honestly and often with our teams and our partners.

Innovation We challenge convention solve complex problems and drive new possibilities every day.

If youre ready to join a team working toward a more sustainable future we invite you to apply today.

Position Summary

The Research Associate will assist with a variety of experiments and tests under the supervision of the Vice President of Technology and Project Leader(s). Specific areas of work will include typical daily laboratory tasks in R&D and Manufacturing analytical instrumentation routine care experimental setup and data recording. The R&D work will focus on carrying out experimental designs and assisting in data collection and analysis related to chemical and biological tasks.

Responsibilities

• Alignment with company culture mission and vision.
• Chromatography: Sample preparation loading and running.
• Protein Chemistry: Prepare samples and run them internally on LECO SDSPAGE etc.
• Feedstock Composition Chemistry (fat fiber ash phytic acid etc.
• Fiber: Familiarity with crude fiber NDF and ADF and methods to differentiate.
• QTPCR extraction and analysis.
• Assays & Enzymes: Ability to perform assays for quantifying protein and sugar metabolism.
• Operating and maintaining lab equipment as well as analytical instruments
• Setting up and executing experiments (both chemical and microbiological in nature) in alignment with experimental protocols sample tables and standard operating procedures.
• Producing and effectively communicating reliable and precise data to support R&D and manufacturing operations.
• Recording laboratory data in accordance with the companys policy.
• Make and record observations perform calculations and collect and prepare data for evaluation by the team on a weekly basis.
• Conduct support functions with team members such as stocking and distributing supplies and equipment.
• Carry out all laboratory functions in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices all Company Policies and Procedures as well as applicable regulatory standards.
• Additional responsibilities will include assisting with laboratory purchasing developing and maintaining inventories of chemicals and supplies and waste management.
• Support in updating standard operating procedures protocols sample tables etc.
• Executing and documenting tasks related to the quality log.
• Maintain a clean working environment.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Pursuing a bachelors Degree in Analytical Chemistry Microbiology Engineering Biochemistry or a related field of study.
• Experience performing laboratory testing sample collection and analyses.
• Scientific yet practical approach to problemsolving.
• Strong understanding of scientific methodologies.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word Excel and PowerPoint
• Ability to work on crossfunctional teams and to prioritize and manage multiple demands

Preferred Qualifications:

• Sterile fermentation experience.
• Knowledge of amino acid chemistry protein dispersibility index and molecular weight distribution. Previous experience with SDSPAGE.
• 2 years of industry experience operating and maintaining lab equipment and analytical equipment
• Familiarity with carbohydrates and proteases.
• Mass Balance: Strong understanding of mass balance.

Job Location: Brookings SD

Please note that submission of an application does not guarantee employment. As part of our hiring process Houdek reserves the right to conduct background investigations which may include verification of education past employment and professional references as well as criminal history checks where permitted by law. Background checks will be conducted when deemed necessary and appropriate for the role being considered and any such inquiries will be handled in accordance with all applicable federal state and local laws. A criminal conviction does not automatically disqualify a candidate from employment consideration. Each situation will be evaluated on a casebycase basis considering the nature of the offense its relevance to the role and the time that has passed since the conviction. By submitting an application you acknowledge that the information provided is accurate to the best of your knowledge and understand that falsification of information may result in removal from the hiring process or termination if already employed.

Required Experience:

IC