Sensory & Consumer Scientist

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Sensory & Consumer Scientist based in the United States.

In this role, you will contribute to cutting-edge sensory and consumer research that supports both academic innovation and industry decision-making in the food science domain. You will design and execute sensory studies, manage research projects end-to-end, and translate complex data into actionable insights for a wide range of clients, including academic researchers and multinational food companies. Working in a fast-paced laboratory environment, you will coordinate participant testing, oversee student staff, and ensure studies are delivered with precision and scientific rigor. This position offers the opportunity to engage with diverse research methodologies and apply advanced sensory science techniques to real-world product development challenges. You will also contribute to scientific communication through reports, publications, and conference presentations. The role combines hands-on research execution with project management and client interaction in a highly collaborative academic-industry setting.

• Design, plan, and execute sensory and consumer research studies for academic and industry clients.
• Develop experimental designs and research proposals using established templates and scientific methodologies.
• Coordinate daily study operations, including participant recruitment, scheduling, and execution of sensory tests.
• Analyze sensory and consumer data and prepare technical reports, summaries, and presentations of findings.
• Train, supervise, and support student workers and research assistants involved in study execution.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures for sensory testing and laboratory workflows.
• Ensure compliance with human subjects research regulations, lab safety protocols, and institutional guidelines.
• Respond to client inquiries and provide guidance on study design and research feasibility.
• Manage multiple concurrent research projects in a high-throughput, fast-paced testing environment.
• Contribute to statistical analysis using appropriate tools and methodologies (e.g., R, SAS, SPSS, JMP).
• Support dissemination of research findings through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
• Assist in organizing training sessions, outreach activities, and short courses related to sensory science.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred in Food Science, Nutrition, Psychology, Market Research, or related field.
• 1+ year of relevant experience for intermediate level roles, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong understanding of sensory and consumer research methodologies such as preference testing, acceptance testing, difference testing, JAR, QDA, and descriptive analysis techniques.
• Experience with sensory research software (e.g., Compusense Cloud or similar platforms such as RedJade, FIZZ, or SIMS).
• Familiarity with statistical tools such as R, SAS, SPSS, JMP, or XLSTAT for data analysis.
• Experience conducting or supporting focus groups (in-person or remote) is highly desirable.
• Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple studies simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact with academic and industry stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently while making sound operational and research-related decisions.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range ($56,200 – $89,600 annually, depending on experience and qualifications).
• Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Robust retirement plans and paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• Generous tuition discount program for employees and eligible family members.
• Opportunity to work in a leading academic research environment with industry partnerships.
• Exposure to advanced sensory science methodologies and cutting-edge consumer research.
• Professional development opportunities including conferences, publications, and training programs.
• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• Participation in impactful research supporting food innovation and consumer insights.