Manager - Research Scientist

About the Function:

Our Supply Chain and Manufacturing team are problem-solvers, sourcing, producing, and delivering our much-loved brands to delight customers around the globe. Over half of Diageos 30,000+ people work in Supply Chain and Manufacturing. Its an intricate and sophisticated operation thats the product of logistical, manufacturing, and technical collaborations.

Our teams in 100 sites in over 30 countries cover production facilities, supplier relationships, customer collaborations and third-party agreements. Were committed to realising our Society 2030: Spirit of Progress goals, to protect the environment and support our farmers and suppliers. Whatever your skills and experience, well help you to thrive in our inclusive culture.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE:

The individual will play a crucial role in analytical research focused on flavor chemistry for process research initiatives that deliver on the innovation business KPIs/needs. This role requires deep expertise in advanced analytical techniques to identify, quantify, and understand the flavour compounds that define our ingredients, process intermediates, and products. The ideal candidate will drive analytical deliverables in process projects and contribute significantly from concept to completion, all the while broadening experience via project work in different disciplines and research programs.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS:

Qualifications

• Education: PhD in Analytical Chemistry/ Flavor Chemistry/ Food Science/ closely related field or A Master's degree with extensive relevant experience.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 5+ years of hands-on experience in a professional R&D analytical laboratory setting.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with GC-MS and LC-MS/MS is required.
• Skills:
  • Expertise in separation science and mass spectrometry
  • Exceptional problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Research Science:

o Design studies and solve for complex analytical objectives aimed at understanding flavour development during fermentation, distillation, maturation, and blending.

o Develop and validate novel analytical methods for the characterization of both volatile and non-volatile flavour and aroma compounds.

o Collaborate with process, sensory, liquid, quality, and production teams to correlate analytical data with flavour profiles and consumer preferences.

o Adeptly handle advanced chromatographic and mass spectrometric techniques such as GC-MS, GC-O (Gas Chromatography-Olfactometry), and LC-MS/MS.

o Perform comprehensive flavour profiling of raw materials, new make spirits, aged spirits, and finished products.

o Troubleshoot and resolve complex analytical challenges, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of all data

Organizational Impact and Influence:

o Manage multiple research projects simultaneously, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.

o Work cross-functionally with multiple teams to apply analytical insights to product development and process optimization.

o Demonstrates accountability for the use of beneficial new technologies, methods and/or products.

o Engages with peers and stakeholders in a way that inspires trust and confidence.

Documentation & Compliance:

o Maintain meticulous records of all research activities in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).

o Ensure all laboratory operations comply with safety regulations and quality standards

Independent Judgment:

o Reaches conclusive decisions after fully researching alternatives.

o Responds quickly and effectively to changes in project needs and priorities keeping the research team informed.

o Prioritizes the delivery of the project goals above personal technical achievements - will comfortably seek out peer/ management support when needed to achieve results.

o Visibly and clearly applies both analysis and intuition equally into work. Participates effectively in ideation sessions and understands how to unlock and apply own creativity.