Research & Development Food Scientist

About the Role:

We are seeking a Food Scientist to support the development of innovative dairy products, ingredients and manufacturing processes through the application of advanced analytical techniques. The role will help translate customer, consumer and market needs into technically robust product and process solutions. Working within multidisciplinary project teams, the scientist translates analytical data into meaningful scientific insights that drive innovation across dairy products including milk, cheese, yoghurt, dairy proteins, whey and casein ingredients and nutritional products. The role should also connect scientific findings to product performance, nutritional positioning, customer requirements and commercial value.

What will I be doing?

• Conduct routine and advanced chemical, physical and functional analyses of milk, dairy ingredients and finished products using a range of analytical techniques to support product development, ingredient functionality, process optimisation and quality improvement, ensuring compliance with laboratory quality systems and health and safety requirements.
• Design, develop, optimise and validate analytical methods and experimental protocols to improve the accuracy, robustness and efficiency of analytical testing, supporting research into dairy chemistry, product functionality, stability and manufacturing performance.
• Plan and execute laboratory experiments, analyse and interpret complex analytical datasets using appropriate statistical methods, and translate scientific findings into actionable recommendations that inform product formulation,process development, manufacturing consistency and innovation across dairy products and ingredients.
• Provide analytical expertise to multidisciplinary R&D projects by collaborating with product developers, process engineers, quality teams and manufacturing colleagues, supporting pilot plant trials, scale-up activities, troubleshooting technical challenges and the successful transfer of new analytical methods and processes into R&D and production as required.
• Prepare technical reports, scientific documentation, presentations and standard operating procedures (SOPs), maintain accurate laboratory records and equipment, and contribute to continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to enhance analytical capability, laboratory efficiency and the adoption of emerging analytical technologies.
• Build collaborative relationships with universities, suppliers, equipment manufacturers and other external partners to identify emerging technologies, analytical approaches and innovations relevant to dairy products and ingredients.
• Monitor scientific literature, competitor activity, ingredient technologies and emerging analytical or processing approaches relevant to dairy, nutrition and infant formula applications.
• Communicate technical progress, risks, results and recommendations clearly to project teams, senior stakeholders, and manufacturing partners enabling informed decision making.

What do I need to be successful?

At Kinisla, we understand that people have very different career trajectories and experiences. In order to be successful in this role we would be looking for the right competencies and aptitudes as well as your proven track record of success in a similar role and environment.  

These include:

• Master’s degree or PhD in Dairy Science, Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Biochemistry or a related discipline; dairy specialisation preferred.
• A minimum of 3 years' experience in an R&D or technical development role within an industrial or applied research environment.
• Experience in dairy ingredients, nutritional products, protein science or customer-led product development would be a distinct advantage.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in analytical science within the food, dairy or ingredients sector, including laboratory testing, analytical method development, validation and troubleshooting, supported by a strong understanding of food chemistry and dairy composition.
• Experience operating a range of analytical instrumentation and techniques, such as chromatography, spectroscopy, thermal analysis, rheology, particle size analysis and protein characterisation.
• Proven ability to generate, analyse and interpret complex scientific data using appropriate statistical methods, applying data-driven problem solving to support product development, manufacturing optimisation and product quality improvements.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality management systems and safe laboratory working practices, with strong organisational and project management skills, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear technical reports, present scientific findings and engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to simplify complex science for non-specialist audiences, including commercial, manufacturing, quality, marketing and customer-facing teams.
• A proactive, curious and results-oriented approach, with strong critical thinking, persistence and a commitment to continuous improvement and scientific excellence.

What will I get in return?

At Kinisla, we believe in giving talented, curious people the opportunity to make a difference. We work as a team, searching for the best ways to inspire and lead the evolution of dairy food and nutrition. We are a community of innovators, working across disciplines to solve global food challenges with a fresh approach. We want you to achieve whatever you put your mind to.

We also offer:

• 25 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays).
• Matched pension scheme up to 10% Employer Contribution.
• Benefits platform offering discounts and cashback on major retailers.
• Employee Assistance Policy.

About Kinisla

Kinisla is a vertically integrated farm-to-fork business with a very substantial consumer foods presence and a leading nutritional and dairy ingredients division, delivering high-quality dairy solutions with a focus on sustainability and innovation. From partnering with local family farms to producing world-class dairy products, we ensure every step of our value chain reflects our commitment to excellence.

With over 50 years’ experience in milk processing, dairy and nutritional technology advancement, and product innovation, we are a key stakeholder in the global food industry and creators of a strong portfolio of market leading dairy brands including Cheestrings, Charleville and Coleraine Cheese, Dairygold, Golden Cow and our new SMUG range. Our from food, for food culture and deep-rooted connection to our 2,800 milk suppliers differentiates our business and offers captivating opportunities for our customers and consumers.

Our dairy comes from some of the world’s richest grazing land and is produced by a network of Irish family farms that have one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world. Through a combination of expertise, innovation, and sustainability, Kinisla is proud to shape the future of dairy while meeting the diverse needs of our farmers, customers, and communities.

Headquartered in Tralee, Co. Kerry, we operate multiple manufacturing facilities in the southwest of Ireland, including Listowel, Charleville, Newmarket, and Farranfore. Additionally, we manage 28 Farm & Home stores throughout the region, ensuring comprehensive coverage and service. In Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom, our presence extends to key locations in Portadown, Coleraine, and Ossett.

Globally, Kinisla employs over 1,700 dedicated professionals across Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK, USA, Netherlands, Spain, Germany, and China. In 2024, we achieved a turnover of approximately €1.3 billion, reflecting our commitment to excellence and growth.

Get in touch today!

At Kinisla, we benefit from the knowledge of our colleagues who bring a diverse range of cultures, backgrounds, lifestyles and experiences. One team fostering an inclusive culture that, above all, inspires food and nourishes life. One culture where everyone brings their unique perspectives and experiences to help make us better, together. We are committed to nurturing an environment of positivity and inclusiveness, where everyone can be at their best, both personally and professionally.

Our recruitment, selection and assessment process are based on the skills and competencies of the specific roles and based entirely on merit. We are committed to and value Diversity and Inclusion in all recruitment processes within Kinisla and do not discriminate based on gender, race, class, economic status, ethnic background, sexual orientation, age, political beliefs, veteran status, marital status or any other protected characteristic.

Please note: We do not accept CVs or candidate profiles from recruitment agencies where Kinisla terms of business have not been signed. Additionally, we will not consider or agree to payment of any recruiter fee under these circumstances. This also applies to CVs or candidate profiles sent directly to any Kinisla Hiring Managers.