At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects to develop tea formulations that enhance wellbeing using AI and advanced analytics.
- Company: Join the University of Nottingham and Twinings in a collaborative research environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training budget, staff discounts, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Full-time, fixed-term role with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on product innovation while working with leading experts in food science.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate qualification in Food Science or related field; PhD preferred.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
University of Nottingham (UoN) invites applications for an R&D Technologist (Postdoctoral KTP Associate) to join our collaboration with Twinings, based at Twinings in Andover. You will report to Twinings’ Research & Innovation Manager and senior academics at UoN.
Working in partnership with UoN’s world leading academic experts in food science, metabolomics, AI-driven analytics, and rapid aroma/volatile profiling, you will lead a strategic project to develop a structured framework of prototype tea, data and methodologies that can be used to accelerate future product innovation.
As an enthusiastic postgraduate, this is a career-development opportunity for you to manage a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) which will support Twinings to develop scientifically validated tea formulations that enhance wellbeing using innovative technologies and AI.
Through the KTP, you will deliver a strategic project that will enable Twinings to create science-led wellbeing solutions. The KTP will enable Twinings to gain new capabilities in the key technical areas of ingredient characterisation/formulation, digitally enabled product design, and predictive modelling of flavour/function.
You will have the opportunity to demonstrate your ability through supporting the creation of products that truly delight and enhance the wellbeing of the world’s consumers, through smart leveraging of science. An awareness of commercial drivers is desirable, but not essential.
Responsibilities- Lead a strategic project to develop a structured framework of prototype tea, data and methodologies to accelerate future product innovation.
- Manage a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) to support Twinings in developing scientifically validated tea formulations that enhance wellbeing using innovative technologies and AI.
- Deliver a strategic project enabling Twinings to create science-led wellbeing solutions in ingredient characterisation/formulation, digitally enabled product design, and predictive modelling of flavour/function.
- Collaborate effectively with Twinings, UoN and other stakeholders; demonstrate the ability to influence and engage.
- Organise time effectively with a flexible approach to prioritising work tasks to achieve KTP objectives.
- Mentoring and development: you will be allocated a budget of £2,000 pa for training and CPD.
- Postgraduate qualification (or near to completion) in Food Science or associated Bioscience/Chemistry; a PhD (or near to completion) is desirable, as is industry experience.
- Knowledge of food science and/or tea (or polyphenolic) science; extensive experience in data analytics/advanced statistics/machine learning is desirable. Research experience in flavour science and/or food chemistry is advantageous.
- Ability to influence and engage with Twinings, UoN and other stakeholders; enthusiasm and motivation to organise time effectively and prioritise work.
KTP is a UK Government scheme promoting sustained and mutually beneficial relationships between universities and industry. This is a full-time, fixed-term contract for 24 months. The post is based at Twinings in South Way, Andover SP10 5AQ. Informal enquiries may be addressed to Tristan Dew (tristan.dew@nottingham.ac.uk). Applications via the online portal.
UoN is committed to providing competitive employment packages whilst supporting the well-being of its staff. We offer access to University resources and benefits, including staff discounts and an attractive pension scheme. We are Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and Athena Swan Gold Award holders. We welcome applications from UK, Europe and worldwide and aim to support moves to the UK as needed. See our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion information on our website.
R&D Technologist - Postdoctoral KTP Associate (Fixed Term) in Nottingham employer: University Of Nottingham
The University of Nottingham, in collaboration with Twinings, offers an exceptional opportunity for R&D Technologists to engage in cutting-edge research and innovation within the food science sector. Located in Andover, this role not only provides access to world-leading academic expertise but also fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development through a dedicated training budget and a commitment to well-being. As a Disability Confident Employer and holder of the Athena Swan Gold Award, UoN is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where diverse talents can thrive and contribute to meaningful advancements in product innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Technologist - Postdoctoral KTP Associate (Fixed Term) in Nottingham
✨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 Nottingham.
✨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 Nottingham!
✨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 Nottingham, 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 Nottingham, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace R&D Technologist - Postdoctoral KTP Associate (Fixed Term) in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at University Of Nottingham, 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 Nottingham.
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 Nottingham. 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 Nottingham. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at University Of Nottingham
✨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 Nottingham’s mission.
