Sensory Scientist

Job Description

At IFF we use Uncommon Sense to create what the world needs. As a collective of unconventional thinkers and creators, we put science and artistry to work to create unique and unexpected scents, tastes, experiences, and ingredients for the products our world craves.
 

This position sits within the Sensory Science group in the R&D Enabling Technologies division at IFF. We are a vibrant research group with expertise in Sensory Science, Neuroscience, and Consumer Science. We work with all functions of the business providing guidance and support in the development of flavors, fragrances, and delivery technologies through a combination of explicit and implicit measurement methodologies. 

We a looking for a Scientist II - Sensory Science to join our team at the Union Beach, NJ, USA location, which is the central R&D location for IFF. You will primarily be responsible for consulting, designing, and managing appropriate sensory tests to enhance product knowledge and report findings in context of project objectives/business goals.

Your responsibilities will include 1) work with R&D researchers, engineers and the Food & Beverage Business Unit to design and execute broad set of studies using sensory methods, 2) Conduct data analysis and interpret findings to derive key insights, 3) work with fellow sensory scientist to enhance / develop new sensory capabilities, 4) collaborate with the global sensory teams to maintain standardization and build sensory and consumer methods globally, 5) identify and manage external academic/industrial research collaboration and vendor relationships under guidance from site lead.

This position is accountable for ensuring standards of quality that meet or exceed customer expectations by adhering to strict testing protocols that have been validated for accuracy & reliability.  Moreover, the scientist ensures compliance with IFF safety and security policies and manages relationships with other Scientists within and outside of IFF, including groups at customers and external research collaborators.  There may be some travel in this position. 
 

About You:  To be successful in this role you must have at least five years of proven track record of conducting research in a sensory scientist role. Work experience in related industry a plus. MS degree, or higher, in behavioral or biological sciences is required.

Typical Responsibilities of Scientist II - Sensory Science Include:

• Design and conduct sensory studies to meet specific project objectives.
• Develop new methods to advance R&D capabilities.
• Apply Scientific Method to provide solutions.
• Participate in development of work-plans for conducting studies.
• Analyze all technical aspects of projects and recommend methods and techniques to be used and principles to be applied.
• Perform analysis and interpret test results; form conclusions on studies conducted.
• Prepare and present technical papers and presentations for internal/external customers.
• Prepare and present research findings at industry/academic scientific conferences as well as submit articles for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Remain current with relevant scientific literature.
• Troubleshoot issues as they arise.
• Adhere to all safety and quality requirements; enhance site safety.
   

Required Skills:

• A BS or a graduate degree (preferred) in Sensory/Behavioral/Biological Sciences or related field (e.g., Experimental Psychology, Neuroscience, Food Science) is required. 
• 5+ years (with BS) or 2-3 years (with MS/PhD) of proven track record of conducting research in a sensory scientist role.
• Experience of working independently within a broadly defined technical area and manage assigned project activities.
• To be successful in this role you must have a solid research background with strong experimental design and data analysis skills.
• Preference will be given to industry experience and experience of working in food and beverage.
• Excellent statistical data analysis skills
• Strong written and presentation communication skills; Must be able to effectively communicate findings and recommendations to both technical and non-technical audiences as well as senior leaders.
• Strong Team Player with influencing skills.
• Flexibility in a fast-paced environment; must be able to manage multiple projects.

Personal Attributes: 

• Strong communication skills: Presents information/ideas to individuals or groups in an articulate, straightforward, and organized way. 
• Conceptual capacity/flexibility – Quickly grasps different concepts.  
• Curious, knowledgably, and creative mindset and is seen as someone who applies knowledge creatively and intelligently to the solution of problems.  

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with EyeQuestion, XLStat, JMP or other sensory and statistical software.
• Knowledge/experience with data science tools and methods
• Familiarity with Python and/or R is a plus.