Research Assistant (Food Science & Technology)

Job Description

The successful candidate will work with Pang Bo on the development of high-moisture extruded plant protein systems under a project on improving the structure, texture, and digestibility of extruded plant proteins.

The main responsibilities of the position include:

• Independently operating, maintaining, assembling/disassembling, and cleaning pilot-scale high-moisture extrusion equipment
• Assisting in the formulation development and processing optimization of plant protein-based materials
• Conducting sample preparation, in vitro digestion studies, and basic compositional analyses
• Supporting structural and physicochemical characterization of extruded protein systems using analytical techniques such as microscopy, FTIR, texture analysis, and rheology
• Recording, organizing, and analyzing experimental data and maintaining proper laboratory documentation
• Assisting in laboratory management, inventory control, and compliance with laboratory safety procedures
• Supporting other research-related activities assigned by the Principal Investigator and supervising researchers

Qualifications

Master’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Biomaterials, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Materials Science, or other closely related disciplines. Experience in food processing, protein science, extrusion technology, or biomaterial research would be advantageous.

Skills:

• Capability to independently operate, assemble/disassemble, clean, troubleshoot, and maintain high-moisture extrusion systems or related processing equipment
• Good organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong commitment to laboratory safety and proper documentation practices
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English, including the ability to read scientific literature and prepare experimental reports
• Familiarity with protein, polymer, or material characterization techniques is an advantage

Experience:

• Prior research or laboratory experience in food processing, extrusion technology, protein chemistry, biomaterials, or related areas is preferred
• Experience with pilot-scale equipment operation and routine maintenance will be highly advantageous
• Hands-on experience with analytical and characterization techniques such as texture analysis, FTIR, microscopy, SEM, rheology, thermal analysis, or protein characterization is desirable
• Experience in experimental design, data recording, and laboratory inventory management is preferred