University of Leicester
Lead Research Scientist (Knowledge Transfer Partnership)
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Vacancy ID: 13589
Location: Leicester
School/Division: Diabetes Research Centre
Vacancy terms: Full time, fixed term contract for 36 months
Salary details: £38,000 to £40,000 per annum + £6,000 training package, pro-rata if part-time
Advert closes midnight on: 06 Aug 2026
Lead Research Scientist (Knowledge Transfer Partnership)
About the role
This role is located at AG Barr plc Bolton, Mansell House, Aspinall Close, Middlebrook, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 6QQ
We are seeking a talented and ambitious Lead Research Scientist to join the University of Leicester's Diabetes Research Centre on a full-time fixed-term 36-month Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project with AG Barr Plc. This unique Innovate UK-funded opportunity will focus on establishing an evidence-led platform for functional beverage innovation, helping to transform the Boost range into a scientifically validated health brand. Based primarily at AG Barr’s innovation hub in Bolton, you will lead cutting-edge research into nutrient bioavailability, protein functionality and human performance outcomes, driving the development of powdered beverage formulations that deliver measurable health benefits while supporting sustainability ambitions.
Working closely with academic experts from the University and industry specialists at AG Barr, you will design and deliver a programme of human research, generate and analyse physiological and biochemical data, develop predictive models, and translate scientific evidence into commercially viable products. You will act as a key link between business and academia, embedding long-term scientific capability within the company while gaining extensive leadership, commercial and research experience.
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As a KTP Associate, you will benefit from a dedicated training and development package worth £6,000, expert supervision and the opportunity to lead a strategic innovation project with lasting impact.
Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Benefits
As a KTP Associate, you will receive:
- A £2,000 annual personal training and development budget
- Supervision from world-leading academics and industry experts
- Full access to University of Leicester and KTP resources
- A unique opportunity to “own” a strategic innovation project central to AG Barr’s long-term growth
About you
You will hold a PhD, or possess equivalent expertise, in a relevant discipline such as exercise physiology, human biology, nutritional sciences, food science, sports nutrition or a related biological science. You will have experience of conducting or coordinating human research studies, designing and analysing quantitative research, and working both independently and collaboratively to deliver high-quality outcomes. You will be highly motivated by the opportunity to see your research influence real products and consumer experiences and will be excited by the challenge of working across academic and commercial environments.
The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent organisational, analytical and communication skills, with the ability to manage complex projects and engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders. Experience of biochemical analysis, consumer research, clinical research governance, or collaboration with commercial partners would be advantageous.
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Additional information
For informal enquiries, please contact David Clayton on david.clayton@leicester.ac.uk
As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying. More information regarding secondments can be found here.
The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.
As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.
We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.
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