Science & Technology Expert Plant Based Products

• You create added value by providing scientific and technical input as a key success factor of the Plant Based strategy. You capture, analyze and report relevant and useful information in the academic world by analyzing food process data, patents, academic articles, developing a network of opinion leaders within the academic world and industry, setting up research projects in collaboration with universities, attending seminars etc.
• You set-up and take the lead on long term research projects in cooperation with R&D colleagues, internal and external stakeholders, universities and knowledge institutes to continuously develop our know-how on plant-based products, ingredients, raw materials and processes.
• In cooperation with our R&D pilot team and lab technicians, you design new experiments and application trials, set-up new analysis methods and analyze the data to gain new insights or test new concepts. Furthermore, you take the lead on validating the proof-of-principle of new concepts and will lead or take part in the upscaling to industrial level.
• You support the R&D technical experts to improve and enhance product development and help finding solutions where needed. You provide in depth knowledge about the ingredients/products/processing and come up with new ideas and solutions based on scientific and technological insights. Furthermore, you implement these ideas in the new or existing products and processes in cooperation with the R&D colleagues. You collect information (internal and external contacts, literature, patents,…) and are part of the project team.
• You report to the S&T Manager Plant Based Food Solutions.

• A great work-experience: We offer you challenging work with a great purpose in an international company having a dynamic, driven and ambitious culture and a collegial atmosphere.
• A people oriented organisation: You will have flexible working hours and the opportunity to work from home 50% of the time. We also invite you to join our sports and wellbeing activities!
• Easy to reach: Our HQ is located close to a bus stop and highway exits. Want to come by bike? Lease a bike at Vandemoortele!

• You hold a PhD in bio-engineering or food technology and combine it with at least 5 years of relevant experience within the food industry or research. Experience with plant based or dairy food products (e.g. cheese, creams, etc.) is a strong asset.
• You dispose of good developed analytical thinking skills and you are open-minded in your thinking and acting.
• Analysing data and processes energize you
• You have a mature business personality, you are able to challenge cross functional colleagues and managers.
• You're able to work in an autonomous way.
• You are proactive, energetic and dare to challenge others. At the same time, you are pragmatic, problem-solving and looking for initiative.
• As a food lover, you are passionate by food and food technology.
• You have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, written and verbal, in English. French and Dutch are a plus.
• You are willing to travel 10% of your time (short trips).
• For this exciting role you will be working at our R&D Centre based in Izegem, Belgium

Vandemoortele