Sensory Research Scientist

Consumer and Sensory Science

The Department of Consumer & Sensory Sciences comprises of 35 staff from a wide range of disciplines and with many years of experience. The Department has an international reputation as a leader in sensory and consumer sciences, with a multi-disciplinary and multi-skilled team fully aware and understanding of the practical needs of clients. The scope of activities covers both the objective sensory analysis with trained assessors, and subjective measurement of preferences and acceptability by consumers.

Strong statistical data analysis and interpretation helps to understand the context of these measurements, both in terms of other physical and chemical measurements, and in relevance to process conditions.

We are currently seeking new research staff to join other scientists in the Sensory & Consumer Research Section of the Department. This Section has an established and expanding research programme, with funding obtained from CCFRA members, the UK Government and the European Union. The Section also takes a leading role in the organisation and research activities of the European Sensory Network.

The Position

Projects within the Sensory & Consumer Research Section are usually between one and three years in duration. At any one time we have a number of on-going projects, projects at completion, projects approved and yet to be started and projects in the proposal stages. Whilst each research scientist in the section will take particular responsibility to contribute or manage one or more projects, teamwork to ensure that project deadlines are achieved with the appropriate resources is essential. In addition to ongoing research work, scientists will be expected to expand further our research portfolio by development of new research ideas and liaison with funding bodies as appropriate.

Skills required

The nature of the work we carry out can be described as applied academic research. Suitable candidates will have a PhD, Masters or degree, preferably in food science or within the social sciences. Industrial experience in the field of sensory sciences and/or consumer research would be advantageous. Experience with statistics and/or data analysis would also be an asset.

The successful candidate will need to demonstrate the following skills:

• Ability and drive to initiate and manage short, medium and long term research projects in the area of sensory and consumer sciences.
• Systematic organisation of information and data.
• Methodical in approach to research design, field research, analysis, interpretation and reporting.
• Ability to manage and prioritise a number of concurrent activities in order to achieve deadlines.
• Comprehensively present research findings verbally and in a range of written formats.
• Ability to translate and communicate research findings and information in a way to influence business decisions.
• Ability to operate effectively in a multi-disciplinary environment and to adapt to changing priorities.
• Show initiative and creativity in developing and nurturing project ideas through to completion.

Reporting directly to the senior scientist responsible for sensory and consumer research activities, this is a challenging role that demands flexibility and initiative. There is the opportunity to make a major impact on the future direction and growth of research at CCFRA, and to have the opportunity to publish papers and develop your career academically through participation and presentation at appropriate conferences. Good written and oral communication skills are therefore essential.

Key Challenges

The key challenges in this role will include the following:

• To manage projects to meet objectives, timescales and financial targets.
• To work with your Senior Manager and Head of Department to continually drive the quality and relevance of the research activities.
• To work with all staff in the Sensory & Consumer Research Section to ensure that our research is recognised for its excellence in its field.
• Working with colleagues to maintain a leading knowledge of developments within the field of consumer and sensory sciences and other relevant science areas and to be innovative and proactive in developing new research ideas.
• To plan and to effectively manage project deliverables and budgets, looking to enhance research performance and financial accountability.
• To report, disseminate and exploit results of research projects using all possible avenues.

Qualities

To meet the challenges of this role, we will be looking for candidates who can demonstrate sound technical and personal qualities. The successful candidate is likely to have the following qualities:

• Self motivated and confident.
• Friendly approachable manner to facilitate good team work.
• Professional manner and attitude.
• Conscientious, demonstrating attention to detail when managing projects.

Grade: HRO/SRO

Salary: Guide £15,945 - £27,313 per annum

Holidays: 24 days rising on length of service, plus public holidays

For an application form and job description, please contact Human Resources Department, Campden & Chorleywood Food Research Association Group, Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire GL55 6LD telephone +44 (0)1386 842091.

CCFRA is an ‘Investor in People’.
As an Investor in People, CCFRA is committed to training and developing all our staff to attain their maximum potential.

Benefits

• Subsidised Day Nursery Facilities
• Pension Scheme
• Permanent Health Scheme
• Death in Service Benefit
• Subsidised Private Medical Care
• Subsidised Restaurant