At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research on advanced materials for innovative powdered beverage formulations.
- Company: AG Barr, a dynamic UK drinks company with a rich heritage.
- Benefits: Access to training resources, staff benefits, and a collaborative culture.
- Other info: Join a project that supports sustainability and elevates health brands.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in health-focused product development and innovation.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent in relevant fields and experience in human experimental research.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
You will lead the development of advanced materials, methodologies and evidence based processes to accelerate innovation in powdered functional beverage formulations, with an initial focus on Boost Sports and Performance drinks.
Your role will embed new long term scientific capability within AG Barr, enabling the design of powdered products with demonstrable functional benefits, improved bioavailability, validated performance outcomes and strong sensory appeal, while supporting the company's wider sustainability and growth ambitions.
If you are driven by impact, excited by translational research, and motivated by seeing your science shape real products used by consumers, this role offers an unparalleled career launchpad.
As an employee of the University of Leicester, you will also be able to access training resources and staff benefits.
Duties and Responsibilities
Research and Innovation:
- Design and deliver a structured programme of research focused on nutrient bioavailability, and functional performance outcomes in powdered beverage formulations.
- Apply advanced nutritional physiology and formulation science to develop products with demonstrable, evidence based benefits.
- Generate and analyse human based data, including biochemical measurements, to validate functional claims
- Develop models to understand ingredient interactions, stability, efficacy and sensory performance.
- Translate complex scientific insights into consumer ready formulations that meet regulatory, sensory and commercial requirements.
Impact and Knowledge Exchange:
- Embed new scientific capability within AG Barr through the creation of a technical playbook, internal testing frameworks and repeatable methodologies.
- Support knowledge transfer through paired working, training activities and the production of clear guidance documents.
- Communicate scientifically robust findings to non technical stakeholders, including product development, marketing and senior leadership teams.
- Contribute to shifting internal culture toward evidence led product development and long term functional innovation
Experience and Qualifications
We are looking for a curious, ambitious and impact driven scientist who thrives on challenge.
- PhD or equivalent expertise in a relevant discipline (for example, but not limited to, exercise physiology, human biology, nutritional sciences, food science, sports nutrition, biological sciences)
- Experience in conducting/coordinating human experimental research programmes
- Experience in design and analysis of studies using quantitative data
- Proficient in Microsoft Office or equivalent software, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
- Experience of independent and collaborative team working
- Experience in conducting biochemical analysis (such as LCMS, HPLC, ELISA techniques)
- Experience in conducting consumer research
- Experience in conduction systematic reviews and meta-analyses
- Contemporary understanding of functional foods/drinks, nutrient bioavailability, hydration, sensory science, and/or appetite regulation
- Experience of involvement in externally-funded programmes of research.
- Experience of conducting research with commercial partners.
- Experience in preparing/submitting regulatory approvals required to conduct clinical research within University or NHS settings.
- Awareness of commercial and regulatory drivers within the food and beverage sector.
Skills and Competencies
- Ability to manage and coordinate research projects
- Ability to work at a high level of accuracy and at high analytical sensitivity
- Ability to interpret analytical data
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Excellent organisational skills
- Ability to prioritise workload in order to meet deadlines
- Highly motivated
- Willingness to undertake necessary training and personal development
- Willingness to undertake necessary travel
Well-developed understanding of Health and Safety regulations and procedures, particularly around clinical research.
- Demonstrable success in producing research outputs of the very highest standard.
- Proven capability in analytical, technical and/or scientific problem solving.
- Business acumen and customer liaison skills
- Willingness to foster new collaborations.
This 36 month project will establish an evidence led platform for functional innovation, elevating AG Barr's Boost drink range into an industry leading health brand with credible scientific backing.
The project will embed advanced analytical expertise in micronutrient and protein functionality, predictive modelling and human based testing, the project will support the development of powdered formulations that deliver measurable health benefits to consumers.
The work will facilitate targeted formulations, that prioritise physiological benefit alongside consumer appeal, accelerate speed to market, and provide robust scientific evidence to support defensible functional claims. In parallel, the project will contribute to AG Barr's sustainability ambitions by enabling formulations with reduced carbon footprint, minimised packaging and improved product efficiency.
About the business
AG Barr Plc is a proud UK based drinks company behind some of the nation's most loved brands- including the iconic IRN BRU. We combine over 150 years of heritage with a bold, forward thinking vision to refresh our consumers and create real value. Driven by core values of passion, integrity, respect, and accountability, we foster a collaborative, inclusive, and energetic culture where people are encouraged to bring their true selves to work and do their best stuff.
While we are proud of our history, we are also rapidly evolving. Our portfolio has never been more diverse or exciting, stretching across established multi category brands like Rubicon, Boost, and Funkin Cocktails. Demonstrating our ambition to lead in premium and health conscious spaces, our family has recently grown to include the botanically brewed Fentimans, premium fruit juice specialists Frobishers, and functional wellness trailblazers The Turmeric Co. This incredible mix gives our teams the unique opportunity to work across a massive breadth of flavours, formats, and functional ingredients.
Lead Research Scientist (KTP Associate) in Bolton employer: The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited
The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Glasgow that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development in the rapidly evolving field of digital mental health and AI ethics. Our inclusive culture encourages creativity and teamwork, making it a rewarding place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in mental health services.
Contact Details:
The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Research Scientist (KTP Associate) in Bolton
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Research Scientist (KTP Associate) in Bolton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited to drive research projects forward.
