Lead Research Scientist (KTP Associate)

You will lead the development of advanced materials, methodologies and evidence‑based processes to accelerate innovation in powdered functional beverage formulations, with an initial focus on Boost Sports and Performance drinks.

Your role will embed new long‑term scientific capability within AG Barr, enabling the design of powdered products with demonstrable functional benefits, improved bioavailability, validated performance outcomes and strong sensory appeal, while supporting the company’s wider sustainability and growth ambitions.

If you are driven by impact, excited by translational research, and motivated by seeing your science shape real products used by consumers, this role offers an unparalleled career launchpad.

As an employee of the University of Leicester, you will also be able to access training resources and staff benefits.

Duties and Responsibilities

Research and Innovation:

• Design and deliver a structured programme of research focused on nutrient bioavailability, and functional performance outcomes in powdered beverage formulations.
• Apply advanced nutritional physiology and formulation science to develop products with demonstrable, evidence‑based benefits.
• Generate and analyse human‑based data, including biochemical measurements, to validate functional claims
• Develop models to understand ingredient interactions, stability, efficacy and sensory performance.
• Translate complex scientific insights into consumer‑ready formulations that meet regulatory, sensory and commercial requirements.

Impact and Knowledge Exchange:

• Embed new scientific capability within AG Barr through the creation of a technical playbook, internal testing frameworks and repeatable methodologies.
• Support knowledge transfer through paired working, training activities and the production of clear guidance documents.
• Communicate scientifically robust findings to non‑technical stakeholders, including product development, marketing and senior leadership teams.
• Contribute to shifting internal culture toward evidence‑led product development and long‑term functional innovation

Experience and Qualifications

We are looking for a curious, ambitious and impact‑driven scientist who thrives on challenge.

Essential:

• PhD or equivalent expertise in a relevant discipline (for example, but not limited to, exercise physiology, human biology, nutritional sciences, food science, sports nutrition, biological sciences)
• Experience in conducting/coordinating human experimental research programmes
• Experience in design and analysis of studies using quantitative data
• Proficient in Microsoft Office or equivalent software, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
• Experience of independent and collaborative team working

Desirable:

• Experience in conducting biochemical analysis (such as LCMS, HPLC, ELISA techniques)
• Experience in conducting consumer research
• Experience in conduction systematic reviews and meta-analyses
• Contemporary understanding of functional foods/drinks, nutrient bioavailability, hydration, sensory science, and/or appetite regulation
• Experience of involvement in externally-funded programmes of research.
• Experience of conducting research with commercial partners.
• Experience in preparing/submitting regulatory approvals required to conduct clinical research within University or NHS settings.
• Awareness of commercial and regulatory drivers within the food and beverage sector.

Skills and Competencies

Essential:

• Ability to manage and coordinate research projects
• Ability to work at a high level of accuracy and at high analytical sensitivity
• Ability to interpret analytical data
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Excellent IT skills
• Excellent organisational skills
• Ability to prioritise workload in order to meet deadlines
• Highly motivated
• Willingness to undertake necessary training and personal development
• Willingness to undertake necessary travel

Desirable:

Well-developed understanding of Health and Safety regulations and procedures, particularly around clinical research.

• Demonstrable success in producing research outputs of the very highest standard.
• Proven capability in analytical, technical and/or scientific problem-solving.
• Business acumen and customer liaison skills
• Budget management skills002E
• Willingness to foster new collaborations.

This 36-month project will establish an evidence‑led platform for functional innovation, elevating AG Barr’s Boost drink range into an industry-leading health brand with credible scientific backing.

The project will embed advanced analytical expertise in micronutrient and protein functionality, predictive modelling and human‑based testing, the project will support the development of powdered formulations that deliver measurable health benefits to consumers.

The work will facilitate targeted formulations, that prioritise physiological benefit alongside consumer appeal, accelerate speed to market, and provide robust scientific evidence to support defensible functional claims. In parallel, the project will contribute to AG Barr’s sustainability ambitions by enabling formulations with reduced carbon footprint, minimised packaging and improved product efficiency.