Postdoctoral Research Associate in Extruded Meat Analogue Production(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Role
We are inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join an exciting project:
“Multi-functional pigmented yeast biomass as an ingredient for plant-based extruded meat analogue products.”
Funded by the Good Food Institute, this research aims to advance innovative plant-based food solutions using red-pigmented yeast blended with plant proteins to create high-moisture, extruded meat analogues.
You will be based in the Food Research Group within the Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences and will have access to world-class facilities, including:
- Food Processing Centre – pilot-scale 20L bioreactor, extrusion, thermal processing, drying, and mixing equipment
- Sensory Science Centre – for texture, flavor, and quality analysis
- Flavour Centre – advanced flavor evaluation and formulation
This role is ideal for an enthusiastic scientist seeking to work in a multidisciplinary environment spanning food processing, formulation, and industrial biotechnology.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct pilot-scale fermentation to produce red-pigmented yeast biomass.
Develop high-moisture extruded meat analogue products by blending yeast with plant-based proteins.
Evaluate food quality parameters including texture, flavor, and overall product functionality.
Collaborate with team members to document results and prepare reports for academic publications and industrial stakeholders.
Support project dissemination through presentations and workshops.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for candidates with:
- PhD in a relevant field, e.g., Food Processing, Food Science, or Food Biotechnology.
- Hands-on experience with extrusion processing and food quality assessment.
- Strong understanding of plant-based meat formulations and ingredient functionality.
- Excellent communication and scientific writing skills.
- Food extrusion best practices
- Industrial biotechnology guidance
Visa & Sponsorship Information
For applicants requiring a visa, this role may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker Route, subject to SOC code requirements. Prospective candidates should ensure they meet all points-based criteria.
UK Points-Based Immigration Overview
Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Reading is committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and encourage applications for flexible work arrangements, including job-sharing and part-time positions where feasible.
Disability Confident Employer (Level 2)
Application & Contacts
Applications are open to both internal and external candidates, with potential for secondment arrangements for current University staff. Internal applicants should discuss with their line manager before applying.
