At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our R&D team to innovate plant-based protein solutions and develop market-ready ingredients.
- Company: AmaranthLabs, a pioneering foodtech startup on a mission for sustainable food innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, share options, gym membership, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a dynamic lab environment at Abingdon Science Park.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the alternative protein space while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: BSc/MSc in Food Science or related field, with 3+ years in protein ingredient development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Us
AmaranthLabs is a UK-based foodtech startup on a bold mission: to build the world’s first end-to-end platform to fully valorise amaranth – a climate-resilient, nutrient-dense ancient grain with its nutritionally complete functional protein and smallest granule among all known starches
The role
We are seeking a highly motivated Ingredient Scientist with significant experience in plant-derived proteins to join our R&D team. With a specific focus on protein purification, characterisation and formulation, this role will be instrumental in establishing the foundation for stable, effective, and marketable products. We are looking for individuals with a strong background in food science, biochemistry or formulation sciences, along with experience in developing market-ready ingredients for the food industry
We would love to meet candidates from a variety of backgrounds, and therefore urge applicants to apply for this role even if they feel they might not meet all of the required experience
What you’ll do
- Apply advanced protein purification and fractionation techniques (chromatography, ultrafiltration, isoelectric precipitation, membrane technologies) to enhance purity, yield, and functional traits
- Design and conduct experiments to characterise protein isolates and concentrates, analysing molecular weights,amino acid composition, secondary structure, and physicochemical properties
- Develop and refine functional testing protocols (emulsification, solubility, gelation, foaming, heat stability, water-holding capacity) for comparative benchmarking against commercial plant-protein ingredients
- Generate application-focused prototypes across multiple categories (bakery, dairy analogues, ready meals, sauces, nutritional beverages), driving product performance validation
- Prepare technical documentation including ingredient specifications, process SOPs, detailed formulation guides, and datasets for internal knowledge capture, client demonstrations, and regulatory compliance
- Collaborate with external partners (academic labs, CROs, equipment suppliers) to access advanced analytics (e.g., LC-MS, DSC, rheology, NMR) and pilot-scale processing technologies
- Support commercial engagement by leading technical demonstrations, preparing client-ready application samples, and interpreting experimental data for external stakeholders
- Ensure accurate record-keeping for all R&D activities to enable reproducibility, protect intellectual property, and support future patent filings
- Monitor emerging technologies and innovation trends in alternative proteins, ingredient processing, and sustainable food systems to proactively identify new product opportunities
- Work cross-functionally with senior leadership to align technical development with strategic business objectives and go-to-market activities
What we’re looking for
- BSc and MSc (PhD desirable) in Food Science, Food Chemistry, Biochemistry, Protein/Enzyme Technology, or a related discipline
- 3+ years’ industrial or post-doctoral experience in protein ingredient development, ideally within the plant-based or functional food sector
- Strong technical expertise in protein chemistry, structure-function relationships, and modification methods (enzymatic hydrolysis, heat treatment, pH shifting, extrusion)
- Hands-on proficiency with protein isolation, purification, and advanced characterization tools (SDS-PAGE, HPLC, DSC, FTIR, rheometry, particle size analysis, surface hydrophobicity)
- Familiarity with scale-up considerations including pilot processing, drying technologies (spray- and freeze-drying), and implications for ingredient stability
- Proven track record of ingredient-to-market workflows, including data interpretation, specification generation, and formulation into commercial product matrices
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams, with strong communication skills to bridge technical and commercial perspectives
- A proactive and resourceful mindset with a passion for sustainable food innovation and for addressing challenges in the alternative protein space
Perks & benefits
- A competitive salary + performance bonus + share option scheme
- Brand new lab and office space in Abingdon Science Park (Oxfordshire)
- 25 days of holiday, plus bank holidays
- Gym membership
- Ongoing learning and career development opportunities
Location
Main lab facility – Abingdon Science Park, Oxfordshire
Ingredient Scientist – Protein in Oxford employer: AmaranthLabs
AmaranthLabs is an innovative foodtech startup dedicated to revolutionising the food industry with sustainable, plant-based protein solutions. Located in the vibrant Abingdon Science Park, we offer a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and creativity, alongside competitive salaries, performance bonuses, and ample opportunities for professional growth. Join us to be part of a mission-driven team that values diversity and is committed to making a meaningful impact on global food systems.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ingredient Scientist – Protein in Oxford
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like AmaranthLabs.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from AmaranthLabs!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like AmaranthLabs, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
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We think you need these skills to ace Ingredient Scientist – Protein in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at AmaranthLabs, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at AmaranthLabs.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to AmaranthLabs. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at AmaranthLabs. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at AmaranthLabs
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to AmaranthLabs’s mission.
