Research Fellow in Alternative Proteins and Future Food
Research Fellow in Alternative Proteins and Future Food

Research Fellow in Alternative Proteins and Future Food

Full-Time 55144 - 65073 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
IMPERIAL COLLEGE

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research in alternative proteins and shape the future of sustainable food systems.
  • Company: Join the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein, a leader in innovative food solutions.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 41 days off, and excellent career support.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on global food sustainability while advancing your research career.
  • Qualifications: PhD in Alternative Proteins or related field with strong research and supervisory experience.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to transforming food systems for humanity.

The predicted salary is between 55144 - 65073 ÂŁ per year.

Funded by the Bezos Earth Fund, the $30m Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein will apply cutting‑edge Engineering Biology to accelerate the alternative protein revolution and transform global food systems, to make them more sustainable, healthy, productive, and resilient, by driving a step‑change in consumption from conventional meat to alternative proteins. Uniting top academics, industry, policy makers and key stakeholders, the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein will be a reference institution in cultivated meat, plant‑based and fermentation‑based food, and the synergies between them.

Responsibilities

  • Lead world‑class research, supervise projects, students and postdocs.
  • Apply for grants, write papers and establish an independent research group.
  • Establish and grow your independent research group at the interface of engineering biology and alternative proteins (either fermentation, cultivated meat, plant/algae‑based or hybrid products).
  • Engage closely with the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Proteins and the UKRI Microbial Food Hub.

Priority Areas of Interest

  • Cultivated meat: research program on cell line development, cell engineering, process optimisation, media optimisation, product development and downstream processing, and any other aspect related to cultured meat.
  • Food science engineering, product development and gastronomy: work on food analysis, product formulation, microbial food and culinary sciences.
  • Bioreactor design, bioprocess engineering, downstream processing applied to future food.
  • Artificial Intelligence and alternative proteins or future food.

Qualifications

  • PhD (or equivalent) in Alternative Proteins or a closely related area/discipline, or equivalent research experience.
  • Substantial experience in supervising students, writing high‑quality scientific publications in reputable journals, securing grant funding and managing aspects of an academic lab.
  • Proven track record of research in the area of expertise on alternative proteins or closely related area.
  • Experience in analysing biological experimental data.
  • Experience in delivering research project results.

Benefits

  • The opportunity to continue your career at a world‑leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
  • Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector‑leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
  • Sector‑leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
  • Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information

  • Full‑time position for 36 months.
  • Closing Date: Midnight Sunday 10 May 2026.
  • For further information on the post, please contact Naheed Khan (n.khan2@imperial.ac.uk) and Simon Partridge (s.partridge@imperial.ac.uk).

Research Fellow in Alternative Proteins and Future Food employer: IMPERIAL COLLEGE

At the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein, located in the vibrant areas of White City and South Kensington, we offer an exceptional work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. As a Research Fellow, you will benefit from a sector-leading salary, generous leave, and a commitment to your professional growth through dedicated career support. Join us in our mission to revolutionise food systems while being part of a diverse and inclusive culture that prioritises your wellbeing.
IMPERIAL COLLEGE

Contact Detail:

IMPERIAL COLLEGE Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Alternative Proteins and Future Food

✨Network Like a Pro

Get out there and connect with folks in the alternative proteins scene! Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meetups. We can’t stress enough how important it is to build relationships; you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.

✨Show Off Your Expertise

When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your research experience and any cool projects you've worked on. We want to see your passion for alternative proteins shine through—don’t be shy about sharing your successes!

✨Leverage Social Media

Use platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your work and connect with industry leaders. Share articles, engage in discussions, and follow organisations that align with your interests. We’re all about making connections, so let’s get social!

✨Apply Through Our Website

Don’t forget to check out our website for job openings at the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein. We’ve got some exciting roles waiting for passionate individuals like you. Apply directly through us to make sure your application gets the attention it deserves!

We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Alternative Proteins and Future Food

Research Skills
Supervision of Students
Grant Writing
Scientific Publication
Cell Line Development
Cell Engineering
Process Optimisation
Food Analysis
Product Formulation
Bioreactor Design
Bioprocess Engineering
Data Analysis
Project Management
Collaboration with Stakeholders
Knowledge of Alternative Proteins

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in alternative proteins and related fields. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!

Showcase Your Research Experience: Since this role involves leading world-class research, be sure to detail your previous research projects, publications, and any grant funding you've secured. We love seeing a proven track record, so make it shine!

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your passion for alternative proteins comes through without fluff.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your materials directly and can consider you for this exciting opportunity at the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein.

How to prepare for a job interview at IMPERIAL COLLEGE

✨Know Your Research Inside Out

Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and the latest developments in alternative proteins. Be ready to discuss your past projects, methodologies, and findings in detail, as well as how they relate to the work at the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Since the role involves supervising students and managing projects, be prepared to share examples of your leadership experience. Talk about how you've successfully led teams, secured funding, or navigated challenges in your previous roles.

✨Engage with Current Trends

Stay updated on current trends in food science and engineering, especially around cultivated meat and bioprocessing. Bring up recent studies or innovations during the interview to demonstrate your passion and knowledge about the field.

✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the centre’s research focus, collaboration opportunities, and future directions. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.

Research Fellow in Alternative Proteins and Future Food
IMPERIAL COLLEGE

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