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Food Science Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Packaging Science (MS); and Food, Nutrition, and Packaging Sciences (PhD). The department's growing degree programs are nationally recognized for our focus on engaging students. The department ...

Senior Product Development Scientist

Elkhart Lake, WI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... PhD in Food Science or equivalent. * Preferred experience working with dairy and cheese. * Strong computer skills are necessary for this position, including word processing, presentation and ...

Scientist

Topeka, KS

$88K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

MS or PhD in Food Science, Nutrition, Food engineering, Animal Science, or related technical field. * Demonstrated understanding of thermal processing effects on ingredient functionality, product ...

Scientist

Topeka, KS ยท On-site

$88K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

MS or PhD in Food Science, Nutrition, Food engineering, Animal Science, or related technical field. * Demonstrated understanding of thermal processing effects on ingredient functionality, product ...

Showing results 41-60

Food Science Phd information

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$12

$22

$33

How much do food science phd jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science phd in the United States is $22.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food science PhD?

A Food Science PhD is an advanced academic degree focused on the study of the physical, biological, and chemical makeup of food, as well as the concepts underlying food processing and preservation. Individuals with a Food Science PhD conduct research to develop new food products, improve food safety, enhance nutritional value, and optimize processing methods. This degree prepares graduates for careers in academia, industry research, product development, and regulatory agencies. The program typically involves rigorous coursework and original research culminating in a dissertation.

What types of collaborative projects can a food science PhD expect to participate in within industry or academia?

As a Food Science PhD, you can expect to work on interdisciplinary teams that often include chemists, microbiologists, engineers, and product developers. Collaborative projects may focus on developing new food products, improving food safety protocols, or researching sustainable packaging solutions. These projects typically require effective communication and project management skills, as you'll coordinate experiments, share findings, and integrate feedback from various departments. Participation in such collaborative efforts not only enhances your technical expertise but also broadens your professional network, which is valuable for career advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food science PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Science PhD, you need advanced knowledge in food chemistry, microbiology, processing, and strong research skills, typically supported by a doctoral degree in food science or a related field. Experience with laboratory instrumentation, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), and familiarity with food safety regulations is crucial. Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication skills help distinguish top professionals in this role. These competencies are vital for driving innovation, ensuring food quality and safety, and advancing scientific understanding within the food industry.

What is the difference between Food Science Phd vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Science PhdFood Technologist
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Food Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Food Science or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsManufacturing facilities, quality control labs, product development
Industry UsageResearch, academia, advanced R&DProduct development, quality assurance, production

The main difference between a Food Science Phd and a Food Technologist lies in their education level and focus. A Food Science Phd typically engages in advanced research and academic roles, while a Food Technologist works in practical product development and quality control within the food industry. Both roles require knowledge of food safety, chemistry, and processing, but the Phd emphasizes research and teaching, whereas the Technologist focuses on applying scientific principles to develop and improve food products.

More about Food Science Phd jobs

What cities are hiring for Food Science Phd jobs?

Cities with the most Food Science Phd job openings:

What states have the most Food Science Phd jobs?

States with the most job openings for Food Science Phd jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Food Science Phd jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Science Phd jobs are:

Infographic showing various Food Science Phd job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,976 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Principal Scientist - Food Innovation

Astrix Inc

Elgin, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Pay Rate Low: 100000 | Pay Rate High: 120000
Principal Scientist - Food Innovation (Enzymes)
Location: Greater Chicago Area
Direct Hire
$100K-$120K

Our client is seeking a Principal Scientist to lead R&D initiatives focused on enzyme technologies and food applications. This is a hands-on scientific leadership role responsible for developing innovative ingredient solutions, supporting product commercialization, and serving as a technical subject matter expert.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead R&D programs focused on enzyme-based food applications and innovative product development
  • Execute hands-on laboratory research and bench-scale experimentation, with approximately 75% of the role spent in the lab
  • Design and execute experiments, formulation studies, and product development projects from concept through commercialization
  • Develop novel enzyme blends and food applications designed to support revenue growth and market expansion
  • Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale trials with internal teams, customers, co-packers, and external research partners
  • Identify new product opportunities through customer engagement, market research, industry trends, and conferences
  • Partner with Sales and Marketing as a technical resource to support customer projects, business development, and technical marketing initiatives
  • Provide technical expertise and support to existing and prospective customers
  • Lead high-level technical presentations for internal stakeholders, customers, and industry conferences
  • Collaborate with universities, food research institutes, and external R&D organizations on joint innovation initiatives
  • Contribute technical data and scientific research to support intellectual property and patent development
  • Supervise, mentor, and develop laboratory personnel and multidisciplinary scientific teams
  • Oversee laboratory operations, equipment maintenance, safety, 5S practices, and quality standards
  • Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and ensure compliance with GMP, SQF, food safety, and corporate quality requirements
  • Collaborate with global R&D teams to share scientific insights and support consistent research initiatives

Qualifications:
  • PhD in Food Science, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline (MS with significant industry R&D leadership experience may be considered)
  • 3+ years of progressive R&D experience in food, enzymes, or applied biotechnology
  • Strong knowledge of enzyme functionality and applications within food systems
  • Experience with industrial enzyme applications strongly preferred
  • Proven experience developing and commercializing food products, ingredient technologies, or enzyme-based applications
  • Hands-on laboratory research and experimental design experience
  • Experience with analytical techniques such as GC, HPLC, spectrophotometry, or chromatography
  • Experience leading, mentoring, or supervising scientific personnel preferred
  • Experience with customer-facing technical support, presentations, or cross-functional R&D projects preferred
  • Strong scientific reasoning, problem-solving, communication, and strategic thinking skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities while balancing hands-on laboratory research with strategic and administrative responsibilities

This job description is a complete list of all desired skills, but not all are required. We strongly encourage candidates who have some of the skills to apply. We look forward to a conversation to learn more about you!
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