Manager, Materials and Structure-Function

Nature’s Fynd is a groundbreaking food tech company born out of NASA-supported research on extremophiles in the geothermal pools of Yellowstone National Park. Our novel fermentation technology produces a sustainable source of complete protein using only a fraction of the resources required by traditional agriculture. As the challenge to feed the world’s expanding population grows, our mission is to create amazing foods and materials that provide sustainable choices and nurture the planet.
We’re looking for passionate, driven, and ambitious people to join our fast-growing team.
The Role SummaryThe successful candidate will be a thought leader who will champion a science-based approach to design and create novel structures and textures as relevant for food & beverage products, particularly alternative meats, dairy analogues and high protein snacks and beverages. Fundamental and applied knowledge in natural polymers, i.e., proteins, fibers, and polysaccharides as derived from diverse origins is essential for this role. The role would require a deep understanding of physics and chemistry-based principles that govern the formation and deformation of food structures. The candidate will apply advanced methods to understand/ manipulate micro- & macro structures  of a range of materials such as, soft and hard matter, porous textures, gels, micelles, emulsions, foams, and films that are key textural attributes, product stability and organoleptic performance in a food product.  The candidate will also be a subject matter expert in understanding of food ingredients to predict structure-property relationship in food structures.  
The candidate will have a successful track-record of developing and commercializing new products in alternative protein space. This position will require cross functional collaboration with customers, manufacturing, marketing, sales and external partners to deliver on company goals. He/she will champion a positive, results-driven culture in R&D that is supported by high performing teams. 
The successful candidate will directly or indirectly lead a team of research scientists and will report to Senior VP of Food Innovation. Target start date is Q3 2022.

Responsibilities:

• Provide data-driven insights to solve technical challenges and defining critical paths
• Lead technical workplan to resolve technical issues in product formulation, prototyping, and manufacturing
• Drive innovation by staying current on new and upcoming technological disruptions and advances in alternative foods and process technologies 
• Identify, engage and establish internal and external technical collaborations to develop products with a competitive advantage
• Manage innovation activities and completion of projects within agreed timelines
• Build compelling value propositions and commercial case for new technologies and products while aligning between internal research and business stakeholders and external partners  
• Provide accurate, clear and concise reports (both written and verbal) on innovation activities, and provide periodic recommendations to the senior leadership team
• Mentor scientists and chemists to support building a high performing culture while keeping the team productive and motivated 

Requirements:

• PhD in Food Chemistry, Biochemistry, Natural polymers/Hydrocolloids, Proteins, Materials Science, Biophysics, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering or equivalent
• 5+ years of industry or research experience in food chemistry and biophysics and Chemistry
• Effective communication at all levels of the organization
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
• Staying current on industry best practices and current food industry trends
• Strong interpersonal, influencing, and project management skills
• Comfortable working in a start-up environment
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and influence technical direction
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills required to influence multiple decision makers in senior management

Company Benefits:

• Participation in Employee Stock Ownership Program
• 100% paid employee benefits
• Ability to join a company with aggressive growth trajectory

Seniority Level Manager
Employment TypeFull-time