We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented R&D Scientist I to join our dynamic Research & Development team, with a focus on sports nutrition product innovation. This role will support the development and optimization of products across a variety of delivery formats including powders, ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, baked/freeze-dried goods, and extruded items. The ideal candidate will combine a strong scientific foundation with creativity and practical execution to deliver innovative, consumer-accepted products from concept to commercialization.This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and is passionate about performance nutrition, functional ingredients, and food science.Key Responsibilities:Support the development of innovative sports nutrition products in various delivery formats.Utilize the latest research and trends in nutritional science and biochemistry to guide development decisions and optimize product efficacy.Apply a deep understanding of physical and organic chemistry principles to drive product optimization and flavor development.Participate in and contribute to sensory evaluation studies; collect and interpret data to guide formulation adjustments for consumer acceptability.Conduct stability testing and troubleshoot formulation challenges with minimal supervision.Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Project Management, Supply Chain, Quality Assurance, Regulatory, Legal, and external partners to ensure timely and compliant product launches.Operation of laboratory equipment including mixers, pH meters, Brix refractometers, density testers, and other analytical tools.Develop formulas considering ingredient claims, interactions in formulation, and implications for certificate of analysis standards.Manage multiple product development projects simultaneously, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and in alignment with strategic goals.Ensure exemplary record keeping, reporting, and documentation of all project activities in both written and electronic formats.Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment in compliance with internal policies and safety standards.Awareness of regulatory requirements to ensure product claims and nutrition facts panels meet applicable standards (FDA, DSHEA, etc.).Coordinate and communicate effectively with contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs); support scale-up trials and commercial production activities.Refine and standardize raw material specifications.
