Senior Sensory Researcher

Key Responsibilities

• Independently plan and lead trained sensory panel sessions, ensuring high-quality execution and robust data, form lexicon and reference development to panel training in line with project objectives and expected quality.
• Develop and refine sensory lexicons and reference standards, using sound sensory judgement to ensure attributes are relevant, discriminating and clearly understood by the panel.
• Monitor panel and individual panelist performance using established metrics, providing feedback and targeted training where needed.
• Provide constructive individual and group feedback to panelists to maintain performance, engagement and motivation.
• Lead panelist recruitment and ongoing panel development to maintain panel retention
• Work closely with sensory team to ensure accurate product preparation, serving and session logistics.

• Independently manage multiple sensory projects from kick off through delivery, taking ownership of all communications, timeline and successful execution, consulting with senior support for key decisions and complex projects
• Act as the day-to-day sensory contact for clients, keeping them informed and building trust through strong project delivery, involving senior colleagues where appropriate
• Contribute actively to client meetings, tastings, immersions and results presentations, supporting complex discussions and taking the lead when appropriate
• Develop timeline milestones and [HY1.1]coordinate requirements across panel, operations, data/analysis and other relevant teams.
• Proactively identify project risks or research issues, addressing these where appropriate and escalating more complex issues for senior input.
• Analyze and interpret sensory data, identifying the key story and implications for the client's business question.
• Review project outputs critically, questioning unexpected results and collaborating with colleagues to resolve issues before they affect final delivery.
• Produce clear, accurate reports and presentations with conclusions grounded in the research.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• 2 years’ experience leading trained sensory panels, including descriptive analysis, is essential.
• Strong understanding of sensory methodologies, specifically descriptive analysis, and data quality.
• Ability to statistically analyze, interpret and communicate technical sensory results clearly.
• Strong project-management skills, with demonstrated ability to manage several priorities simultaneously.
• Experience working directly with clients or internal research stakeholders.
• Strong organization, problem-solving and attention to detail.
• Collaborative working style, proactive and comfortable working independently.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience, ideally in Sensory Science, Food Science, Psychology or a related discipline.
• Experience with sensory data collection software is beneficial, e.g. Compusense, Fizz, Eye question.[

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