Gradiate Sensory Specialist

Are you a science graduate looking to begin your career in sensory science, consumer research or product development?

Manpower is currently seeking a Graduate Sensory Specialist to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands including Dove, Sure, Persil and Simple. This is an excellent opportunity for a graduate to gain practical industry experience within Unilever’s fast-paced Research & Development environment.

The position is based at Unilever’s scientific Research & Development facility in Port Sunlight Village, Wirral, which is easily accessible by train and car.

This is a full-time temporary role for six months, with the possibility of extension. You will work 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for the role is up to £36,000 depending on experience.

The opportunity

As a Graduate Sensory Specialist, you will work alongside experienced sensory scientists and support the planning and delivery of sensory studies and human panel testing.

You will receive practical exposure to sensory research within a global FMCG business, developing your understanding of how products and fragrances are evaluated and how sensory data is used to support product development and improve consumer experiences.

Previous experience within fragrance or perfumery is not required. We are particularly interested in graduates from relevant scientific, sensory, consumer research or research-based degree backgrounds.

What you’ll be doing

Working with and receiving guidance from experienced colleagues, you will:

• Support the planning and coordination of sensory studies and human panel testing.
• Help organise testing schedules, participants, materials and study logistics.
• Support the training and coordination of sensory panellists.
• Follow agreed testing procedures and help ensure studies are completed accurately and consistently.
• Check, organise and maintain sensory study data.
• Assist with the analysis and interpretation of sensory and consumer research results.
• Help prepare clear reports and presentations summarising study findings.
• Work collaboratively with sensory scientists, panellists, consumer researchers, product developers, perfumers and evaluators.
• Support the introduction of new sensory research methods, tools and processes.
• Ensure personal and sensitive participant information is handled appropriately and confidentially.

What we’re looking for

This opportunity is specifically aimed at graduates who are looking to begin or develop their career within sensory science, consumer research or product development.

You should have:

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Sensory Science, Food Science, Consumer Science, Psychology, Neuroscience, Chemistry, Biological Sciences or another relevant scientific or research-based subject.
• An understanding of research methods, study design, data analysis or scientific testing gained through your degree.
• Good analytical skills and confidence working with data.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively and manage multiple tasks.
• A genuine interest in sensory science, consumer research and product testing.

Practical experience gained through a university project, dissertation, laboratory work, industrial placement, year in industry or internship would be beneficial but is not essential.