Project Scientist in Consumer Behavior and Preferences with the Local Farm and Food Innovation Initiative

2 days ago

Davis CA United States University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources Full time
Project Scientist in Consumer Behavior and Preferences with the Local Farm and Food Innovation Initiative (F3Local) (Assistant-Associate Rank-Represented) (24-04)

University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources

Date Posted: November 13, 2024
Closing Date: December 16, 2024

Job Description: Download

Position Overview
Location Headquarters: UC Davis, Delarue Lab

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for a Project Scientist (Assistant-Associate Rank) with the Local Farm and Food Innovation Initiative (F3 Local).

Purpose and Clientele:

The Project Scientist will conduct research on consumer behavior and on safety and process control for development of Cottage Foods products, value-added products, and small-scale food processing technology and will conduct research to meet local needs for small-scale startup food entrepreneurs in the Fresno/Merced region. The Project Scientist will lead research on consumer preferences and purchasing behaviors in value-added and locally sourced foods, focusing on trends like organic, eco-friendly packaging, and plant-based options. Conduct sensory testing to assess food product quality and identify key factors driving consumer choices and support small food producers by applying consumer insights to product development, offering tools for engaging customers, and providing educational resources to promote innovation and market alignment.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

Research (60%):
  • Lead applied research in consumer preferences and purchasing behaviors in value-added food products and locally-grown produce (e.g., locally sourced, organic, convenience foods). This will include analyzing consumer acceptance of innovations such as new packaging, preservation techniques, or flavor profiles in value-added products and the exploration of emerging trends such as plant-based, organic, fair trade, and eco-friendly packaging, and how they impact consumer preferences and willingness to purchase.
  • Conduct sensory research to assess and describe the sensory characteristics of food products and produce, including taste, texture, aroma, and appearance. Develop and implement sensory testing protocols, such as descriptive analysis and consumer preference tests, to evaluate product quality and consumer acceptance. Analyze sensory data to identify key attributes that influence consumer preferences and purchasing decisions.
  • Conduct focus groups with diverse consumer segments to gain deeper insights into regional demand and preferences for specific food products.
  • Analyze and interpret quantitative and qualitative data to identify market trends, consumer behaviors, and competitive landscapes.
  • Conduct comprehensive literature reviews on consumer behavior, value-added products, food marketing strategies, and trends in regional and international food markets.
  • Supervise students or technicians on technical aspects of research, including methods development, troubleshooting issues, interpreting results, and planning subsequent experiments.


Outreach and Extension (25%):

  • Work with small food producers, food entrepreneurs, and micro food businesses to incorporate consumer preferences and sensory data into their product development processes and guide them in using this data to refine existing products and innovate new offerings that meet market demands.
  • Offer tools and best practices for conducting surveys in cost-effective ways, ensuring small and micro businesses can regularly engage their customers and refine their offerings based on real consumer data.
  • Plan, organize, and participate in programs designed to educate clientele including small farms, food entrepreneurs, processors, community partners, and public agencies to present findings and engage the public in discussions around food choices and preferences.
  • Develop extension resources such as brochures, fact sheets, and social media content to communicate research results to a wider audience, including consumers and food producers.
  • Collaborate with F3 Local Initiative staff and partners to collect local and regional information and to connect with small-scale value-added food producers.
  • Prepare extension publications to disseminate research results. Participate in conferences and workshops.
  • May maintain liaison and respond to the needs of various industry organizations, state and federal agencies, and other external groups.

Professional Competence and Activity (15%):

  • Prepare high-quality written materials including reports, program and project impact statements, blog posts, briefings, executive summaries, and presentations.
  • Conduct literature reviews and summarize existing research relevant to projects.
  • Prepare peer-reviewed journal articles for publication.
  • Contribute to regular project reporting of activities and deliverables.
  • Prepare and give presentations at professional meetings, conferences, and stakeholder convenings.
  • Participate in appropriate professional/technical societies or groups and other educational and research organizations.
  • Participate in activities of committees within UC ANR as appropriate to project activities.

Reporting Relationship: The Project Scientist serves under the administrative guidance of the University of California ANR Regional Director, Small Food and Farm Innovation.
Qualifications and Skills Required
Education: A minimum of a Ph.D. degree in Consumer Behavior, Food Science, or a closely related field is required at the time of appointment.

Required Qualifications:
  • Strong background in applied research related to consumer preferences, sensory descriptive analysis, and value-added food products.
  • Experience conducting qualitative and quantitative research methods, including surveys, focus groups, sensory tests, and statistical analysis.
  • Strong data analysis skills, particularly in consumer behavior or market research.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex findings to diverse audiences.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of value-added food product development, packaging, and preservation techniques, and how they influence consumer purchasing decisions.
  • Understanding of challenges faced by small food producers and entrepreneurs in local and regional markets.
  • Experience with grant writing and securing research funding.

Additional Requirements
  • Ability to work independently and seek guidance when needed, demonstrated through academic research, professional experience, or a combination.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills and presentation skills.
  • Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed, proof of liability and property damage insurance on vehicles used is required. Must possess a valid California Driver's License to drive a County or University vehicle.
  • This is not a remote position. The candidate must be available to work onsite. In accordance with UC ANR Flexible Work Guidelines flexible work agreements are available upon approval by supervisors and periodic re-evaluation.


Skills Required: To be successful, a Project Scientist requires skills in the following:

Technical Competence and Impact
  • Interact with collaborating scientists to achieve project objectives.
  • Collect and analyze data for agency reporting and journal publications. Participate in extension education and outreach activities.
Communication
  • Demonstrated excellence in written, oral, interpersonal and information technology communication skills and ability to extend information to a variety of audiences including students, staff, faculty, and industry stakeholders.
  • Skills to communicate and extend technical information to diverse audiences are required.
  • Participation in professional societies and conferences and ability to give presentations at seminars and continuing education functions.

Collaboration, Teamwork and Flexibility
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to simultaneously manage multiple projects
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as a team member with others.
  • Able to adapt as circumstances warranted.
  • Promote diversity, equity and inclusion.

Lifelong Learning
  • Demonstrated commitment to ongoing self-improvement.

About UC ANR

UC ANR is a division of the University of California (UC) system that bridges the gap between local issues and the expertise of the UC system by providing research-based information, educational programs, and technical expertise to the public in areas such as agriculture, natural resources, nutrition, and youth development. UC ANR is part of a nationwide Cooperative Extension network, which began in the early 20th century to connect research from land-grant universities with the everyday needs of people in communities across the United States. Today, we collaborate with farmers, ranchers, diverse communities, youth and adult educators, and policymakers to address local and statewide issues related to food systems, water, climate change . click apply for full job details

  • Project Scientist in Consumer Behavior and Preferences with the Local Farm and Food Innovation Initiative

    2 days ago

    Davis, CA, United States University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources Full time

    Project Scientist in Consumer Behavior and Preferences with the Local Farm and Food Innovation Initiative (F3Local) (Assistant-Associate Rank-Represented) (24-04) University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources Date Posted : November 13, 2024 Closing Date : December 16, 2024 Job Description : Download Position Overview Location Headquarters:...

  • Project Scientist in Consumer Behavior and Preferences with the Local Farm and Food Innovation Initiative

    3 days ago

    Davis, CA, United States University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources Full time

    Project Scientist in Consumer Behavior and Preferences with the Local Farm and Food Innovation Initiative (F3Local) (Assistant-Associate Rank-Represented) (24-04)University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources Date Posted: November 13, 2024Closing Date: December 16, 2024Job Description: Download Position Overview Location Headquarters: UC Davis,...

  • Food Scientist

    4 weeks ago

    South Holland, IL, United States Carl Buddig & Company Full time

    Food ScientistJob Category: Research & DevelopmentRequisition Number: FOODS001393Full-TimeSouth Holland, IL 60473, USAAbout Us:Carl Buddig and Company is a legacy in the meat manufacturing industry with a rich heritage spanning over 80 years. Established as a family-owned enterprise, we have grown into a leading producer of quality meat products, including...

  • Behavioral Health Technician

    2 weeks ago

    Overland Park, KS, United States The Behavior Project Full time

    The Behavior Project is a locally and BCBA owned/operated ABA provider in Overland Park, KS. We’re an innovative early intervention program serving littles on the autism spectrum (ages 2-7) and their families through a play-based therapeutic approach.Highlighted benefits:paid certification and training for Behavior Technicians & RBTsself-paced raisesPTO...

  • Food Scientist

    2 weeks ago

    Milwaukee, WI, United States Wixon Full time

    Food Scientist – Protein Application and SeasoningsAre you a results oriented, self-motivated individual interested in a position that can make a difference within a well-respected company? Wixon is a growing and progressive manufacturer of custom flavor systems and food technologies. Located in St. Francis, WI, we have been blending innovation with a...

  • Sanitation and Food Preparation Specialist

    4 weeks ago

    Davis, California, United States Local Kitchens Full time

    Job SummaryAs a Restaurant Prep Cook for Local Kitchens, you will play a vital role in the culinary operations of our restaurant by ensuring that all ingredients are prepared, organized, and ready for use on the kitchen line.Key ResponsibilitiesPrepare and cook ingredients according to recipes and portion sizes specified by the recipe tools and kitchen...

  • Data Scientists Modeling

    2 weeks ago

    Southfield, MI, United States Stefanini North America and APAC Full time

    This is a data scientist role within the Marketing Analytics Modeling team with a focus on developing and maintaining state of the art models for consumer behavior. Projects may include forecasting customer behavior and preferences, customer segmentation and profiling, optimizing incentives and experiences, calculating customer lifetime value, and...

  • Food Safety Controller

    4 weeks ago

    South Holland, IL, Cook County, IL; Illinois, United States Carl Buddig & Company Full time

    Food Scientist Research & Development Full-Time is a legacy in the meat manufacturing industry with a rich heritage spanning over 80 years. Established as a family-owned enterprise, we have grown into a leading producer of quality meat products, including our renowned lunchmeats, ready-to-eat cooked meats under the family business, our success is...

  • Scientist I, Product Development

    2 weeks ago

    Hunt Valley, MD, United States McCormick & Company Full time

    You may know McCormick as a leader in herbs, spices, seasonings, and condiments – and we’re only getting started. At McCormick, we’re always looking for new people to bring their unique flavor to our team.McCormick employees – all 14,000 of us across the world – are what makes this company a great place to work. We are looking to hire a Scientist...

  • Senior Food Scientist

    2 weeks ago

    Bakersfield, CA, United States CSG Talent Full time

    CSG Talent have partnered with a key client in the food manufacturing industry who are looking to hire a Senior Food Scientist to play a key role in product development strategies. We are keen to bring on an individual with a strong understanding of flavorings to compliment the existing team skill sets. You will also focus on shelf life, sensory & other...

  • Food Scientist

    1 week ago

    Grafton, WI, United States Wellington Executive Search Full time

    Our client is a manufacturer of flavors and ingredients for food and beverage manufacturers. We are looking to hire an experienced Food Scientist who will be responsible for flavor development, food formulation, product evaluation, validation, and new food application development. We are open to hiring someone from a flavor company or food manufacturer. This...

  • Food Scientist I

    5 days ago

    Neptune, NJ, United States Joulé Full time

    Title: Food Scientist I Be one of the first applicants, read the complete overview of the role below, then send your application for consideration. Location: Wall, NJ area Schedule: M-F 8:30 AM- 5 PM Type: Direct Hire Responsibilities: Lead research and product development. This role requires expertise in food science and product development, with...

  • Litigation Attorney, Full Time

    2 weeks ago

    Davis, CA, United States State Farm Full time

    As a Fortune 50 company, we hire the best employees to serve our customers, making us a leader in the insurance and financial services industry. State Farm embraces diversity and inclusion to ensure a workforce that is engaged, builds on the strengths and talents of all associates, and creates a Good Neighbor culture. We offer competitive benefits and pay...

  • R&D Food Scientist

    2 weeks ago

    Salem, OR, United States The Oregon Fruit Company Full time

    The R&D Food Scientist is responsible for developing new products and processes, including product redesign and enhancement. This role supports all channels of business, from consumer retail canned fruit products to fruit purees for foodservice and industrial food manufacturers. At their core, the R&D Food Scientist has an insatiable drive to bring...

  • Product Development Manager

    2 weeks ago

    Salinas, CA, United States Church Brothers Farms Full time

    Job Title: Product Development ManagerDepartment: SalesReports To: Vice President of Retail SalesLocation: Salinas, CAPay Range: $90k+ annually, with a competitive bonus programCOMPANYChurch Brothers Farms is a vertically-integrated family owned and operated company that produces a full line of fresh vegetables year round with an in-house farming/harvest...

  • EMT - Bay Area Commuter

    3 weeks ago

    Modesto, CA, United States ProTransport-1, LLC Full time

    Brand: Bob Evans FarmsCategories: Research & DevelopmentLocations: New Albany, OhioPosition Type: Regular Full-TimeRemote Eligible: NoReq ID: 23502Job DescriptionBusiness Unit OverviewFor 75 years, Bob Evans Farms has delivered delicious, quick-to-table, farm-inspired food that makes mealtime a little bit easier and a lot more delicious. We’re proud to be...

  • Strategic Consumer Insights Manager

    2 weeks ago

    Ewing, NJ, United States Church & Dwight Full time

    Role Overview:This Strategic Consumer Insights Manager collaborates with global markets to provide Commercial (Brand & Sales) and New Product Teams with insights and guidance based on a solid understanding of consumers for assigned categories. They execute primary and secondary marketing research and analytical support for current and emerging products. This...

  • Data Scientist, Strategy and Innovation

    4 weeks ago

    Sunnyvale, CA, United States LinkedIn Full time

    At LinkedIn, we're committed to helping professionals achieve their career goals. As a Data Scientist, Strategy and Innovation, you'll play a key role in leveraging big data to drive business decisions and deliver data-driven insights.Our Data Science team is dedicated to empowering business growth and member engagement through data analysis and...

  • Product Innovation Manager

    1 week ago

    Santa Monica, CA, United States 24 Seven Talent Full time

    An iconic hair care brand is seeking a Product Innovation Manager. Product Management & StrategyPerform ongoing analyses to support 3-year product planning, including consumer usage behavior research, consumer pain points, competitive dynamics, and white space opportunities. Inform new product strategy and development efforts, product innovation roadmaps,...

  • Board Certified Behavior Analyst

    2 weeks ago

    Arlington, VA, United States The Language and Behavior Center Full time

    We're hiring full- and part-time BCBAs in Virginia!The Language and Behavior Center (TLBC) is a boutique-style ABA company that is employee-centered and focuses on an anti-ableist approach to working with autistic children. We are owned and operated by two BCBAs and are not backed by private equity. This means we get to prioritize quality of services and...