Senior Citrus Scientist- Lakeland, FL

Job Description

Do you want to drive R&D in the field of citrus? It’s an exciting time to be part of IFF, we are looking for a Senior Research Scientist, citrus to join our NOURISH Business Unit Team. The function will be at our New Citrus Innovation Center in Lakeland, Florida, USA.

Are you passionate about taste, scent, new technologies and citrus? Do you enjoy working in an environment of a passionate and multi-cultural team? If yes join IFF NOURISH as Senior Citrus Scientist and make the difference! The role is in our Nourish platform but will be covering the full IFF portfolio, including projects for Scent.

As we continue to accelerate our momentum, you’ll put our global customers at the heart of our business and develop globally accepted ingredients. You will have the opportunity to make tremendous impact on our growth by applying your technical skills and innovative ways of working.

Responsible for complex technical projects from experimental design to completion.

This includes testing, analytical procedures, equipment setup and preparation of standards and product materials under minimal supervision. Employees in positions at this level independently apply intensive and diversified knowledge of scientific research in broad areas of assignments and related fields. They also require a moderate level of business acumen.

Job Description:

• Drive, prioritize and manage research work for the global citrus innovation center.

• Develop and conduct experiments for a variety of projects and activities to be carried out individually or by others.

• Review scientific literature, abstracts, patents, and applicable method papers as appropriate.

• Keep up to date on trends, new technical developments, and competitor’s activities by monitoring applications for processing systems and ingredients in citrus applications.

• Deliver and create value-added solutions to citrus applications all over the product portfolio. Build strong technical credibility with customers.

• Provide technical services to Customers, Sales and Divisions as needed (plant trials, troubleshooting, and training).

• Implement and adhere to IFF core values and safety initiatives. Report incidents promptly to Management.

• May develop or assist with development of new product and application literature, including technical reports, invention disclosures and patents.

• Analyzes data, writes reports and makes presentations to team, colleagues, supply, and technology partners; transforms data into usable information and makes recommendations.

Job Requirements

To successfully perform the requirements of this position, the incumbent must possess a minimum PhD or Master’s degree in Biological, Chemical, Food Science or related degree and experience typically gained through 10+ years in the citrus industry.

• Strong communication (verbal and written), organizational and interpersonal skills are necessary.

• This position operates in a laboratory/pilot plant environment.

• The function may require outside travel up to 10% of the time.

• Proven ability to work effectively in a matrix organization and drive cross-functional project teams.

• Works on confidential projects.

• Demonstrates a strong understanding of chemistry, in particular the procedures and process of food and flavor ingredient sciences.

• Significant knowledge of the technical aspects of citrus including Citrus fruit and byproduct processing including all industrial aspects, the composition of citrus byproducts/raw materials and physics and physical chemistry applications.

• Good understanding of botanical research.

• The position reports into the Global Citrus Innovation Team.