Research Nutritionist

Carthage Innovative Swine Solutions – Research Nutritionist

Basic Function: The Research Nutritionist will support both Carthage Nutrition and Carthage Research by integrating swine nutrition programs with applied production research. This role combines research leadership with commercial nutrition support to deliver data-driven solutions that improve production efficiency and client profitability. Key responsibilities include research design, data analysis, reporting, and developing peer-reviewed publications.

The position is expected to be split approximately 20% with Carthage Nutrition and 80% with Carthage Research, with flexibility based on evolving business needs. In addition to overseeing nutrition components of research trials, the role will provide traditional nutrition support to Carthage Nutrition clients as needed.

Reports to: Director, Data Analytics and Research

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design, coordinate, and oversee applied research trials in swine nutrition, health, and production, ensuring adherence to scientific principles.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret production and research data to generate actionable insights.
• Continuously improve research execution processes to enhance efficiency and control costs.
• Conduct literature reviews to support technical recommendations and inspire new research ideas.
• Prepare internal and client-facing research reports, technical summaries, and peer-reviewed manuscripts.
• Ensure research projects comply with Animal Care requirements and company confidentiality policies.
• Establish and help implement a research quality management system.
• Present research outcomes to clients, internal teams, and at industry conferences.
• Collaborate with U.S. and Latin America-based nutrition and research teams to align strategies and methodologies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with producers, nutritionists, feed mills, and internal stakeholders.
• Provide technical support in swine nutrition—including diet formulation, ingredient evaluation, and feed budgeting—to assigned domestic and/or international clients.
• Offer expert nutritional guidance to optimize animal performance and economic outcomes.
• Support field investigations and special projects with veterinary and production teams.
• Contribute to cross-functional team meetings and knowledge-sharing initiatives across CVS, PSM, and CISS.
• Participate in business development by identifying client needs and delivering practical, innovative solutions.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Education and Work Experience:

• Master’s degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or related field required.
• PhD or equivalent experience preferred (especially in swine nutrition or production research).
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in commercial swine production, nutrition, or research.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Strong foundation in swine nutrition, diet formulation, and feed manufacturing practices.
• Proficient in data analysis, statistical tools, and research design.
• Demonstrated ability to write and publish scientific manuscripts.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both English and Spanish.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and data analysis platforms (e.g., Excel, R, Power BI).
• Effective interpersonal skills for collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
• Understanding of pig production systems, especially in the U.S. and Mexico.
• Familiarity with animal welfare standards and biosecurity protocols.

Position Location and Travel:

• The position is based in the US, Carthage, IL area.
• Requires up to 50% travel time both internationally and domestically
• Must meet all legal requirements to travel internationally.