Senior Scientist, Microbiology R&D

Arxada is a global leader in innovative solutions that protect our world. Our groundbreaking technologies, in-depth regulatory know-how, manufacturing and process development help our customers to safeguard nutrition, health and infrastructure efficiently through chemistry and biotechnology that enhance sustainability. We offer a broad portfolio of ingredients and services for multiple end-markets that include Human Health & Nutrition, Home & Personal Care, Professional Hygiene, Paints & Coatings and Wood Protection.

With customers in more than 100 countries, the company achieved sales of CHF 2 billion in 2024. Headquartered in Basel (Switzerland), Arxada employs 3,200 associates across 24 production sites and 14 R&D centers, all committed to our customers' success.

Senior Scientist Microbiology - Morristown, NJ

As a Senior Scientist Microbiology based in Morristown, NJ, you will play a pivotal role in accelerating our upstream research and development efforts within the preservation space. You will drive innovation by developing and optimizing high-throughput screening workflows, uncovering structure-function relationships, and advancing promising technologies with interdisciplinary teams. This is an opportunity to contribute directly to Arxada's long-term growth while being part of a collaborative, purpose-driven culture that values grit, scientific curiosity, and going beyond for customers and partners.

Essential Job Functions

• Lead complex microbiological testing programs and design development plans that achieve project milestones effectively.
• Optimize high-throughput screening workflows to deliver reproducible, predictive models for new molecules and end-use efficacy.
• Provide technical leadership to research professionals and laboratory staff while mentoring research associates to strengthen team capability.
• Develop and refine laboratory methods, including creating novel approaches for diverse application areas.
• Analyze large datasets and support robust data retention systems, integrating tools such as coding and automated workflows.
• Prepare and review high-quality scientific reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary and external partners to advance technologies toward commercialization.
• Ensure all laboratory activities follow strict safety procedures, SOPs, and JSAs.

Qualifications & Experience

• M.Sc. in Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or Biochemistry required;
  Ph.D. preferred.
• 5-10 years of advanced technical experience with demonstrated scientific excellence and problem-solving capability.
• Expertise in microbiological techniques for cultivating bacteria and yeast; experience with VBNC, persisted, or tolerant cells is a plus.
• Hands-on experience with antimicrobial testing, metabolic characterization, flow cytometry, and high-throughput screening workflows.
• Ability to work with large datasets, coding tools, LIMS/ELN, and automated liquid-handling platforms.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills, with the ability to independently translate concepts into results.
• Entrepreneurial, ethical, detail-oriented mindset suited to a fast-paced, innovation-driven R&D environment. [

The expected salary range for this role is $79-90K but specific employee compensation may vary depending on factors including experience, education, training, licensure, certification, location and other job-related, non-discriminatory factors permitted by law.

This role is also eligible to earn a short-term incentive bonus and the following benefits: 401(k) plan, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, paid time off, paid holidays and paid sick leave.

Arxada has world class offering in two distinct areas:


** Microbial Control Solutions (MCS)** focuses on threats posed by microorganisms to people and planet through five distinct business lines including Professional Hygiene, Home & Personal Care, Wood Protection, Paints & Coatings and Material Protection.
** Nutrition, Care & Environmental (NCE)**, meanwhile, provides materials used to manufacture composites for electronics, aerospace and other markets, as well as vitamins

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