Senior Research Scientist

ASR Group; Greater London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - GBP 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading sugar refining company in Greater London is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to spearhead product development projects across Europe. This role requires a strong technical background in formulation science and excellent project management skills. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver new products on time and within budget while ensuring compliance with manufacturing and regulatory standards. This position offers opportunities for innovation and significant impact in the industry.

Qualifications

• Strong technical knowledge in formulation science and manufacturing processes.
• Experience in leading product development projects.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute product development and reformulation strategies.
• Provide technical leadership in ingredient qualification.
• Apply stage/gate project management principles to deliver projects.

Skills

Technical knowledge in formulation science

Project management

Collaboration with stakeholders

Education

Relevant degree in science or engineering

Job description

Job Title

Senior Research Scientist, R&T

Location

Thames Refinery, UK

Reports To

R&T Director

Company Description

ASR Group is the world’s largest refiner and marketer of cane sugar, with an annual production capacity of more than 6 million tons of sugar. The company produces a full line of grocery, industrial, food service and specialty sweetener products. Across North America, ASR Group owns and operates six sugar refineries, located in Louisiana, New York, California, Maryland, Canada and Mexico. In Europe, the company owns and operates sugar refineries in England and Portugal. ASR Group also owns and operates mills in Mexico and Belize. The company’s brand portfolio includes the leading brands Domino®, C&H®, Redpath®, Tate & Lyle®, Lyle’s® and Sidul®.

Overview

Reporting to the Research & Technology Director, the Senior Research Scientist is responsible for leading and coordinating product development projects across Europe, with occasional involvement in global initiatives. Working within the Global Research and Technology department and European cross‑functional teams, this role ensures technical excellence, compliance, and timely delivery of new and existing products. The position requires strong technical knowledge in formulation science, manufacturing processes, and analytical methodologies, combined with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders and customers to align projects with business objectives and market needs.

Detailed Roles & Responsibilities

Product Development & Project Management

• Lead, design, and execute technical aspects of product development, reformulation, and optimisation strategies from concept through launch and post‑launch governance.
• Provide technical leadership in ingredient qualification, formulation development, and production of bench‑top or full‑scale samples aligned with customer and marketing briefs.
• Apply stage/gate project management principles to deliver multiple work streams on time and within budget.
• Develop product formulations and laboratory samples based on consumer insights, ensuring compliance with manufacturing, regulatory, and cost objectives.