Senior Research Technologist - Discovery Research Flavour Platform

About the Role

Fonterra Te Mātāpuna invites applications for a Senior Research Technologist position within its Discovery Research Flavour Platform at the Palmerston North R&D Centre. This permanent role centers on advancing Fonterra's flavour science capabilities by integrating flavour chemistry expertise with analytical chemistry, flavouromics, and predictive flavour modelling. The successful candidate will connect factors such as raw milk composition, processing conditions, and sensory attributes across Fonterra’s dairy products.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead initiatives to establish and enhance Fonterra's flavour baseline and flavouromics techniques, linking chemistry, sensory data, processing inputs, and product performance metrics.
• Provide specialized knowledge in flavour chemistry, focusing on advanced analytical approaches, identification of flavour markers, and hypothesis-based scientific investigations.
• Collaborate with research teams to create predictive flavour models and digital decision-making tools.
• Manage flavour-related problem-solving and root-cause analyses, translating complex scientific results into actionable insights for manufacturing, quality assurance, and product development teams.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, marketing, and external partners to deliver impactful scientific outcomes.
• Sustain and enhance long-term flavour science capabilities through knowledge management, intellectual property development, external collaborations, and technology scouting.

Candidate Profile

The ideal applicant will have a PhD in chemistry, food science, dairy science, or a related discipline, with proven experience in flavour and analytical chemistry within research, product development, manufacturing, or quality contexts. A robust understanding of volatile and aroma compound analysis is essential. The candidate will possess the ability to interpret complex scientific data and effectively communicate recommendations to diverse audiences. Curiosity, collaboration, commercial awareness, and a solution-oriented mindset are valued traits to thrive in this role.

Company Values and Benefits

Fonterra embodies values of collaboration, continuous improvement, and responsibility, fostering an inclusive environment where all employees can be their authentic selves. Benefits offered include fair and equitable compensation, health and wellbeing programs, professional development, career advancement opportunities, flexible working arrangements where feasible, employee recognition, and support for community and cultural engagement.

Inclusion Commitment

The cooperative encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, emphasizing diversity and equitable participation. Accommodations during the recruitment process are available to ensure equal opportunity for all candidates. Applications close at midnight on Tuesday, 18th of August.