Flavor Science Associate Scientist

Overview

Are you a dynamic R&D colleague looking for a growth experience in a high profile role, working with global teams and playing a pivotal role in building the future of Flavours & Seasonings within PepsiCo Foods? If so, this could be the perfect role for you.

This position will focus on identifying and developing new flavour ingredient technologies for use across PepsiCo Foods. The successful applicant will undertake investigations to evaluate novel technologies for flavour systems that delight consumers and accelerate progress towards our pep+ goals such as the global sodium reduction programme. The role requires an understanding of fundamental flavour science, and intellectual curiosity to explore new solutions to key technical challenges.

Responsibilities

• Explore & validate new flavour ingredient technologies to strengthen PepsiCo’s ability to develop the best-tasting, healthiest snack foods
• Lead projects on a day-to-day basis within the Flavour Science programme
• Organize and execute experimental studies and trials in collaboration with project managers
• Interpret and report experimental results – make recommendations based on observations, data analysis and consultation with other team members
• Prepare product prototypes to illustrate technical possibilities and assist in determining development directions
• Develop and maintain effective working relationship with partners within R&D and with other non-R&D project stakeholders
• Direct ingredient development & selection based on molecular-level interactions with human taste & aroma receptors to achieve required sensory outcomes
• Provide creative innovation solutions to technically complex issues to meet project objectives
• Demonstrate & apply an understanding of consumer product testing, sensory and analytical testing to deliver superior products to the market, engaging with relevant SMEs to ensure best practices are adopted
• Proactively engage a network of subject matter experts and strategic supplier partnerships to maximise excellence & efficiency of projects
• No direct reports but may manage temporary staff and students

Qualifications

• Bachelor Degree or equivalent in Food Science, ideally with strong component of Flavour Science
• Strong skills in project management
• Self-starter with strong self-motivation to drive for results in an innovative manner
• Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to communicate and negotiate effectively across all levels and all functions of the organisation
• Good presentation skills (written & verbal)
• Strong analytical skills – ability to interpret complex data into useful and actionable information
• Ability to explain complex technical issues/solutions to a non-technical audience
• Strives for high standards, seeks innovative solutions, drives continuous improvement of products, processes or methods and demonstrates a high degree of intellectual curiosity
• Passion for creativity and innovation within a commercially driven environment
• Cultural sensitivity/flexibility in responding to different cultures
• Fluent in English