Innovation and Development Scientist

ROLE: Innovation and Development Scientist (12 months)

REPORTS TO: VP of Innovation and Development

LOCATION: Annacis Island Plant

We're seeking a curious and driven Innovation & Development Scientist to join our R&D team on a 1-year contract. This is an exciting opportunity for a recent science graduate to gain hands-on industry experience and make a meaningful impact on the future of plant-based foods.

Opportunities 

In this role, you will be part of a team leading a dedicated 1-year research project focused on optimizing plant conversion processes for milk-alternative products, including the upcycling of byproducts into the human food sector. This project will allow successful candidates to participate in the development of new products that touch on the maximization of full supply chain sustainability. You'll collaborate closely with formula developers and cross-functional stakeholders to bring your scientific insights to life.

Here is who you are… 

Drive & motivation

• You are driven by scientific curiosity, passion, and interest in delivering best-in-class products through sustainable innovation

• You're a scientist who's excited to drive real-world impact alongside a collaborative team.

• You think outside the box and use your research, analytical, and problem-solving skills to effectively troubleshoot and bring new ideas to life.

• You thrive on learning, constantly aim to grow, and turn challenges into opportunities for innovation.

Character & ABILITIES 

• You possess excellent critical thinking, project management and problem-solving skills. 

• You stay organized and focused under pressure, adapting seamlessly to shifting priorities and fast-changing conditions.

• You have the ability to work independently, and as part of a team to build strong and collaborative relationships across cross functional teams.

• You can communicate and listen effectively to deliver your message with purpose and seek to understand.

Knowledge & skills

• You possess solid knowledge of food chemistry and microbiology, food chemistry and microbiology, specifically in plant-based.

• You have knowledge and hands-on experience with different laboratory techniques.

• You can design and execute well-structured experiments, statistical data analysis, and result interpretation for evidence-based decision-making.

• You have experience in research publication and fund application and a strong understanding of the academia landscape.

• You have experience and success in leading a team. 

• You are proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint

Experience

• Recent graduate with a Master's or PhD degree in Food Science, Agronomy, Food Technology, or a related scientific field 

• You have at least 2 years of experience in food industry, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.  

Nice-to-Have 

• You are familiar with project management systems such as Stage Gate.  

• You are familiar with RD software, (e.g., Genesis) is an asset.

• You have experience in formulation development and product launch process. 

things you will do… 

• Drive multiple technical R&D projects from concept to launch by conducting hands-on R&D experiments and data analysis on sensory, functionality, micro, shelf-life testing, etc.

• Research industry trends, emerging technology, processes and ingredients to support leadership in shaping strategy and building an innovation pipeline for best-in-class products.

• Develop and execute an intellectual property strategy, setting and managing targets for patent applications.

• Support R&D team in technical feasibility assessments and provide technical solutions when required.

• Lead funding applications and actively manage milestone achievement to ensure project success.

• Engage with external research partners and suppliers to expand expertise and drive innovation in plant-based technologies and research.

• Gain and apply knowledge of Health Canada and FDA regulations during development process and claim review and resolve regulatory issues in collaboration with cross functional teams.

OTHER … 

• This position requires some level of travel and flexibility in schedule.