At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct research on fermented plant-based foods and analyse their nutritional benefits.
- Company: Join the Quadram Institute Bioscience, a leader in food and gut microbiome research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time contract, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on nutrition science and contribute to innovative food research.
- Qualifications: PhD in Biology, Nutrition, or Food Science with relevant research experience.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a commitment to diversity and scientific integrity.
The predicted salary is between 37500 - 45350 £ per year.
Job Title
Research Scientist – Fermented Foods & Nutrition
Key Details
Post Number 1004972 – Closing Date 6 Nov 2025 – Grade SC6 – Salary £37,500-£45,350
- Hours per week 37
- Project Title FlavourFerm ‘Unleashing the flavour potential of plant-based foods via fermentation’
- Expected Start 01 Dec 2025 – Duration 25 months
Main Purpose
Conduct comprehensive nutritional and biochemical analysis of fermented plant-based foods for the FlavourFerm Horizon Europe project, focusing on amino acid composition, vitamin B12 isoforms and nutrient bioaccessibility and their effects on gut microbiota using in vitro gastrointestinal models.
Main Activities & Responsibilities
- Assess nutrient bioaccessibility (incl amino acids, small peptides, B12 isoforms) from fermented foods using the INFOGEST protocols – 20%
- Quantify the effect of selected fermented foods on short-chain fatty acid production (SCFA) using in vitro batch colon models by LC-MS – 20%
- Undertake experiments using the Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME) model to quantify small intestinal amino acid absorption and collect DNA for further analysis – 20%
- Undertake comprehensive nutrition analysis of selected fermented foods using established protocols compatible with national food composition tables – 10%
- Quantify amino acid composition and B12 isoforms using in-house LC-MS/MS methods – 10%
- Coordinate scientific publication and other dissemination activities – 10%
- Report project progress to project coordinators and funders – 5%
Person Profile – Education & Qualifications
PhD in Biology, Nutrition, Food Science or related discipline – Essential
Specialist Knowledge & Skills
- Knowledge of nutrition and health, protein/AA composition and B12 – Essential
- Knowledge of fermented food science, plant-based fermentation and nutritional benefits – Essential
- Knowledge of gastrointestinal digestion – Essential
- Research experience and track record of scientific publications related to nutrition and health – Essential
- Experience with static in vitro models of gastrointestinal metabolism – Essential
- Experience of using INFOGEST protocols for assessing bioaccessibility of nutrients – Essential
- Experience in working with dynamic models of gastrointestinal metabolismSHIME) – Desirable
Interpersonal & Communication Skills
Excellent communication skills (written and oral), time‑management, organisational ability, teamwork, independent work, problem‑solving, ability to meet deadlines – Essential
Additional Requirements
- Attention to detail – Essential
- Promotes equality and values diversity – Essential
- Commitment to scientific integrity and best practices – Essential
- Willingness to undertake occasional travel – Essential
- Willingness to embrace expected values and behaviours of all staff – Essential
- Ability to present a positive image of self and the Institute – Essential
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information – Essential
Who We Are
Quadram Institute Bioscience – a world‑leading research Institute at the forefront of food and gut microbiome science, working with University of East Anglia, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, BBSRC and John Innes Centre.
Application Information
Salary: £37,500–£45,350 per annum
Full‑time, 25‑month contract
Closing date 6 November 2025
Apply via https://jobs.quadram.ac.uk or contact Human Resources (01603 450814, nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk) quoting reference 1004972
We are an Equal Opportunities Employer. The Institute values Respect, Innovation, Collaboration and Excellence.
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Research Scientist – Fermented Foods & Nutrition employer: Quadram Institute
Contact Detail:
Quadram Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Scientist – Fermented Foods & Nutrition
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of fermented foods and nutrition on platforms like LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, attend webinars, and don’t be shy to ask for informational interviews – it’s all about making connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of fermentation processes and nutritional analysis. Be ready to discuss your research experience and how it relates to the role. Practise common interview questions and have some insightful questions ready to show your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills through a portfolio! If you’ve got publications or projects related to nutrition and fermented foods, compile them into a neat portfolio. This can really set you apart during interviews and give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our job postings for similar roles that might pop up. The more you apply, the better your chances of landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Scientist – Fermented Foods & Nutrition
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Scientist role. Highlight your experience in nutrition, fermented foods, and any relevant research projects. We want to see how your background aligns with our FlavourFerm project!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about fermented foods and how your skills can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Research Experience: Don’t forget to mention your research experience and any publications you have. We’re looking for someone with a solid track record in nutrition and health, so make sure to highlight those achievements clearly.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our values there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Quadram Institute
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of fermented foods and nutrition. Familiarise yourself with the INFOGEST protocols and the SHIME model, as these are key components of the role. Being able to discuss your previous research and how it relates to the job will show that you're not just interested, but also knowledgeable.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your past research experiences, especially those related to gastrointestinal digestion and nutrient bioaccessibility. Have specific examples ready that highlight your skills in using LC-MS/MS methods and any publications you've contributed to. This will demonstrate your capability and fit for the position.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication skills are essential, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might be asked to explain complex scientific concepts, so being able to simplify your explanations will impress the interviewers. Remember, they want to see how well you can convey your ideas!
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Integrity
The role requires collaboration and a commitment to scientific integrity. Be prepared to discuss how you've worked effectively in teams and how you uphold ethical standards in your research. Sharing examples of how you promote diversity and respect in your work environment can also set you apart from other candidates.