Food Scientist – Functional Algae-Based Product Innovation

About Us

We are a climate-tech innovation startup incubated at IIT Madras Incubation Cell (IIT-MIC) and accelerated by IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre (IIML-EIC).
Our mission is to harness the power of microalgae, particularly spirulina and phycocyanin, to develop India’s next generation of sustainable, high-value food products — from fizzy wellness drinks and immunity bars to functional ice creams and edible beauty formulations.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Food Scientist / Product Development Expert with hands-on experience in functional ingredients, F&B formulations, nutraceuticals, or algae-based innovations, to lead R&D and prototyping of innovative edible products infused with spirulina and phycocyanin.
The ideal candidate should be able to develop complete product blends from A–Z, right up to the point of the product being packed.

Note:
– Minimum 2 years of relevant experience is mandatory.
– Freshers or individuals without hands-on experience are not eligible to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize food & beverage formulations using spirulina and phycocyanin.
• Innovate and prototype functional formats: drinks, ice creams, bars, gummies, snack mixes, and more.
• Conduct stability tests, sensory evaluations, and nutritional profiling of products.
• Ensure compliance with FSSAI regulations and food safety standards throughout development.
• Scale up lab trials to pilot batch productions effectively.
• Collaborate with branding and packaging teams on aspects such as shelf-life, recommended dosage, and visual appeal.
• Maintain detailed documentation of R&D processes, results, and intellectual property initiatives.

Qualifications & Skills

• Educational: M.Sc. / Ph.D. in Food Technology, Food Science, Biotechnology, or related disciplines.
• Experience: 2–5 years of hands-on experience in food formulation or nutraceutical product development.
• Familiarity with functional ingredients (e.g., plant-based proteins, probiotics, algae).
• Strong understanding of ingredient interactions, sensory science, emulsification, and natural pigment preservation.
• Proven experience with shelf-life studies, color stability, and preserving natural pigments in food products.
• Excellent writing skills — with bonus points for scientific paper publication and patent writing experience.

Bonus:

• Prior work with spirulina, chlorella, phycocyanin, or other wellness/functional food products.
• Passion for health, sustainability, and future foods.

What We Offer

• A chance to work at the cutting edge of food science & climate innovation.
• Opportunities to contribute across multiple product lines.
• Competitive salary with performance-based bonus.
• Access to state-of-the-art lab facilities, mentors, and pilot-scale units.
• A mission-driven, collaborative, and growth-focused work culture.

How to Apply

Send your CV and a brief cover letter to [insert email here]
Subject line: Application – Food Scientist (Algae Product R&D)

Mandatory Note

• Candidates must have minimum 2 years of relevant experience in food product development.
• Ability to independently handle complete product development — from concept to packed product — is essential.
• Candidates without experience or freshers will not be considered.

Documents Required Upon Selection

Selected candidates will be required to submit the following documents at the time of joining:

• Original Educational Certificates – Degree certificates and mark sheets (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD if applicable)
• Identity Proof – Government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, PAN, or Driving License)
• Address Proof – Recent utility bill, Aadhaar, or rental agreement
• Proof of Previous/Existing CTC – Last 3 months' bank statements reflecting salary credit, Last 3 months’ payslips
• Relieving Letter / Experience Certificate (if applicable)
• Passport-size Photographs (2 copies)

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ₹400,000.00 - ₹600,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person