At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative food science projects to reduce fat in snacks while keeping them tasty.
- Company: Join PepsiCo's R&D team at their Global Centre in Leicester.
- Benefits: Enjoy 42 days of holiday, a generous pension, and health perks.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal development and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on snack innovation and sustainability.
- Qualifications: PhD in Food Science or related field with problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Interviews expected to be held week commencing 6 July 2026. This role is based at PepsiCo International Limited, Global R&D Centre, 4 Leycroft Rd, Beaumont Park, Leicester, LE4 1ET. This position is part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between PepsiCo International Limited and the School of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Leeds. The role will lead innovative food science approaches to evolve the snacks portfolio, reducing fat content while maintaining flavour and quality. You will be integrated into PepsiCo International’s R&D team in Leicester and work alongside researchers using state‑of‑the‑art imaging and characterisation facilities at the University of Leeds throughout the project.
Qualifications
- Hold a PhD in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics or a related discipline with expertise in physical chemistry, material design, process engineering or instrumental analysis, and a strong understanding of interfaces and soft matter systems.
- Demonstrated ability to solve complex challenges in a commercial environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the integration of innovative approaches in food science to reduce fat content in snacks while preserving flavour and quality.
- Conduct extensive research, testing and development as part of the project, and provide knowledge transfer to PepsiCo’s R&D and production teams.
Visa & Sponsorship
This post may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. First‑time applicants may need to qualify for salary concessions. For more information, visit www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa. For research and academic posts, eligibility under the Global Talent visa may be considered. For more information, visit www.gov.uk/global-talent.
Benefits
- 26 days holiday plus approx. 16 Bank Holidays or days that the university is closed by custom (including Christmas) – that is 42 days a year.
- Generous pension scheme plus life assurance – the university contributes 14.5% of salary.
- Health and wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state‑of‑the‑art campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit and sports halls.
- Personal development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development and Professional Learning team.
- Access to on‑site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.
And much more.
Contact
- Professor Gleb Yakubov, Academic Supervisor Email: G.Yakubov@leeds.ac.uk
- Barbara Warburg, Company Supervisor Email: Barbara.Warburg@pepsico.com
- Katie Wallett, Innovation Support Co‑ordinator (University of Leeds) Email: K.Wallett@leeds.ac.uk
KTP Associate in Food Physics and Seasoning Adhesion Science in Leeds employer: University of Leeds
PepsiCo International Limited offers an exceptional work environment at its Global R&D Centre in Leicester, where innovation meets collaboration. Employees benefit from a generous holiday allowance, a robust pension scheme, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, all while contributing to meaningful projects that shape the future of food science. With a strong focus on personal development and well-being, PepsiCo fosters a culture of growth and support, making it an ideal employer for those passionate about advancing their careers in food science.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land KTP Associate in Food Physics and Seasoning Adhesion Science in Leeds
✨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 University of Leeds.
✨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 University of Leeds!
✨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 University of Leeds, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at University of Leeds, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace KTP Associate in Food Physics and Seasoning Adhesion Science in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at University of Leeds, 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 University of Leeds.
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 University of Leeds. 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 University of Leeds. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Leeds
✨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 University of Leeds’s mission.
