KTP Associate in Food Physics and Seasoning Adhesion Science

Job Overview

Interviews expected to be held week commencing 6 July 2026. This role is based at Pepsi Co International Limited, Global R&D Centre, 4 Leycroft Rd, Beaumont Park, Leicester, LE4 1ET
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This position is part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between Pepsi Co International Limited and the School of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Leeds. The role will lead innovative food science approaches to evolve the snacks portfolio, reducing fat content while maintaining flavour and quality.

You will be integrated into Pepsi Co International’s R&D team in Leicester and work alongside researchers using state‑of‑the‑art imaging and characterisation facilities at the University of Leeds throughout the project.

Hold a PhD in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics or a related discipline with expertise in physical chemistry, material design, process engineering or instrumental analysis, and a strong understanding of interfaces and soft matter systems.

Demonstrated ability to solve complex challenges in a commercial environment.

Lead the integration of innovative approaches in food science to reduce fat content in snacks while preserving flavour and quality.

Conduct extensive research, testing and development as part of the project, and provide knowledge transfer to Pepsi Co’s R&D and production teams.

This post may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. First‑time applicants may need to qualify for salary concessions. For more information, visit

For research and academic posts, eligibility under the Global Talent visa may be considered. For more information, visit

• 26 days holiday plus approx. 16 Bank Holidays or days that the university is closed by custom (including Christmas) – that is 42 days a year.
• Generous pension scheme plus life assurance – the university contributes 14.5% of salary.
• Generous pension scheme options plus life assurance.
• Health and wellbeing:
  Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state‑of‑the‑art campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit and sports halls.
• Personal development:
  Access to courses run by our Organisational Development and Professional Learning team.
• Access to on‑site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.

And much more.

Professor Gleb Yakubov, Academic Supervisor
Email:

Barbara Warburg, Company Supervisor
Email:

Katie Wallett, Innovation Support Co‑ordinator (University of Leeds)
Email: