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