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Scientist Downstream Processing Columbia, MD

DSM


Job Location:

Columbia, SC - USA

Yearly Salary: USD 100000 - 135000
Posted: 29 September 2026 (8 days ago)
Application Deadline: 27 December 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Scientist Downstream Process Development

Location: Columbia MD

We are seeking a talented and motivated Scientist with expertise in Downstream Processing (DSP) ideally within the field of Biotechnology to strengthen our research team at the Columbia Biotechnology research hub of this role you will lead and contribute to the development of innovative biotechnological processes that enable production of ingredients and products used across a wide range of applications.

The Columbia site serves as the Center of Excellence for Lipids within dsm-firmenich. The successful candidate will bring experience with oil and lipid chemistry emulsions and separations technologies. We are looking for a natural communicator orally and in writing as well as a team player who can think act and discuss scientific concepts and discoveries across disciplines in a constructive and collaborative way. This role offers the opportunity to be innovative with an entrepreneurial way of addition you will have the opportunity to lead the planning and execution of complex science and research projects including reviews reporting and stakeholder management.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Scientific Excellence and Thought Leadership: Apply relevant scientific and engineering knowledge in separations processes to projects and interconnected processes with an eye towards enabling environmentally beneficial and cost competitive biobased solutions to global challenges around nutrition health and beauty.
  • Process Development and Optimization: Design execute and analyze downstream processes at bench scale. Drive opportunities to optimize existing processes at production scale with a thorough understanding of scale down scale up and tech transfer.
  • Cross-functional collaboration: Work closely with Strain Improvement Fermentation Analytical Manufacturing and Quality to resolve complex bioprocess challenges. Visualize and present data and conclusions convincing stakeholders to move solutions from the lab towards implementation.

We Offer:

  • A dynamic R&D environment where you can contribute to impactful innovations.
  • A diversity of exciting projects related to lipids foods and products used everyday by millions of people.
  • A diverse international and interdisciplinary team of industry-leading researchers with a well-equipped research facility.
  • Supportive career development with opportunities for both vertical and lateral growth.
  • The opportunity to be a part of a company both building upon and shaping a strong legacy through breakthrough industrial innovations and technology.

You Bring:

  • BS in Chemical Engineering Biotechnology Bioprocess Engineering or related field with 5 years of hands-on experience in industry. MS or PhD in applicable disciplines can be considered partially in lieu of industrial experience.
  • A proven track record on process and product innovation with demonstrated hands-on experience with lab and/or pilot scale bioprocessing recovery equipment.
  • Keen understanding of unit operations M&E balances and separation technologies with experience developing DSP trains and interconnected modeling approaches thereof.
  • Understanding and experience applying statistics and DOE in development of experimental workplans; Six Sigma certification is a plus.
  • A strong sense of ownership accountability and motivation with good prioritization and organizational skills.
  • A collaborative spirit you thrive in cross-functional international teams and show initiative when contributing to project work.

The salary or hourly wage scale provided reflects the pay range dsm-firmenich expects to pay the successful candidate for the position. Individual pay offered will be based on the applicants job-related skills experience relevant education or training and primary work location. This position is also eligible for bonuses and benefits which are not included in the pay scale provided. Salary $100000-$135000.

In addition to base salary we also offer a comprehensive total rewards package inclusive of annual incentive pay a retirement savings plan health care coverage paid time off recognition programs and a broad range of other benefits. All benefits and incentives are subject to eligibility requirements.

About dsm-firmenich

At dsm-firmenich we dont just meet expectations we go beyond them.

Join our global team powered by science creativity and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life.

From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare the impact of your work here will be felt by millions every single day. Whether its fragrance that helps you focus alternative meat thats better for the planet or reducing sugar without losing flavor this is where you help shape the future of nutrition health and beauty for everyone everywhere.

And while youre making a difference well make sure youre growing too. With learning that never stops a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses teams and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas Theyre essential to our future.

Because real progress only happens when wego beyond together.

The application process

Interested in this position Please apply online by uploading your resume in English.

Inclusion belonging and equal opportunity statement

At dsm-firmenich we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported included and free to be themselves they do their best work and thats exactly the kind of culture were building. A place where opportunity is truly equal authenticity is celebrated and everyone has the chance to grow contribute and feel they belong.

Were proud to be an equal opportunity employer and were serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing were committed to reflecting the world we serve.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds no matter your gender ethnicity sexual orientation or anything else that makes you you.

And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process were here to help just let us know what you need and well do everything we can to make it work.

Agency statement

Were managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If youre applying as an individual wed love to hear from you. Were not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role.


Required Experience:

IC


About Company

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Purpose-led, performance-driven Royal DSM is a global, purpose-led leader in health and nutrition, applying bioscience to improve the health of people, animals, and the planet. DSM’s purpose is to create brighter lives for all which we achieve through developing products and solution ... View more

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