At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in food science to create healthier snacks without compromising on taste.
- Company: Join PepsiCo's R&D team at a leading global food and beverage company.
- Benefits: 42 days holiday, generous pension, health perks, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with state-of-the-art facilities at the University of Leeds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the food industry while advancing your career with cutting-edge research.
- Qualifications: PhD in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics or related field required.
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.
Do you hold a PhD in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics or a related discipline? Do you excel in physical chemistry, material design, process engineering or instrumental analysis? Do you have a strong understanding of interfaces and soft matter systems? If you are passionate about applying your expertise to solve complex challenges in a commercial environment, this role is for you!
Take the lead in embedding innovative approaches in food science to evolve the snacks portfolio, reducing fat content while maintaining the great flavour and quality that consumers trust. The University of Leeds has an excellent opportunity for you to ‘fast track’ your career in industry by leading a strategically important project to a successful implementation.
Through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), you will be working in partnership with PepsiCo International Limited and The School of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Leeds, one of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities. PepsiCo International Limited, based in Leicester, is part of the PepsiCo group which is one of the UK's leading food and beverage companies.
This KTP aims to leverage cutting-edge scientific innovation to drive continuing portfolio transformation – enabling the production of great-tasting snacks that are lower in fat, without compromising on flavour and quality. This transition has been a core part of PepsiCo’s strategy in the UK, as an increasing number of their products and brands move to non-HFSS (High Fat Salt & Sugar) status. This ongoing progress aligns fully with the UK Government food strategy, and this KTP is a fantastic opportunity to help apply scientific knowledge and innovation to continue to drive positive change within the food industry.
You will be integrated into PepsiCo International’s R&D team in Leicester. This provides a unique environment to undertake extensive research, testing and development throughout the duration of your project. This research will be further facilitated and supported by state-of-the-art imaging and characterisation facilities available at the University of Leeds.
Please note that this post may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route but first-time applicants might need to qualify for salary concessions.
26 days holiday plus approx. 16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) – That’s 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 & Professional Learning team. Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available. And much more!
To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact: Katie Wallett, Innovation Support Co-ordinator (University of Leeds).
KTP Associate in Food Physics and Seasoning Adhesion Science in Leicester employer: University of Leeds
PepsiCo International Limited, located in Leicester, offers an exceptional work environment for the KTP Associate in Food Physics and Seasoning Adhesion Science. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, employees benefit from extensive research facilities, generous holiday allowances, and a robust pension scheme, all while contributing to meaningful projects that drive positive change in the food industry. The collaborative culture with the University of Leeds further enhances personal and professional growth opportunities, making it an ideal employer for those passionate about food science.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land KTP Associate in Food Physics and Seasoning Adhesion Science in Leicester
✨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 Leicester
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.
