R&D Nutrition Expert (all genders)

As an R&D Nutrition Expert, you will contribute to the communication, translation, and development of nutrition science across our dairy portfolio. You will shape research programs, provide strategic guidance on product innovation, and act as a trusted expert for internal and external stakeholders.

What we ask:

• PhD or Master’s degree in Human Nutrition, Nutritional Sciences, Food Science (nutrition focus), Biochemistry, or a related discipline.
• 3- 5 years of experience in nutrition R&D within food, sports nutrition, medical nutrition, or life sciences.
• Proven experience in designing and interpreting nutrition research (e.g., pre-clinical trials, clinical trials, human studies).
• Experience translating scientific findings into product innovation or claim substantiation.
• Strong team player who understand the dynamics within a R&D community.
• Acts as a liaison between R&D and global/local marketings teams.
• Stakeholder management and influencing skills in cross-functional environments.
• Goos communication and presentation skills, with the ability to simplify complex science.
• Track record of scientific publications and/or conference presentations.
• Knowledge of global regulatory frameworks (e.g., EFSA, FDA).
• Experience engaging with external scientific or industry networks

What we offer:

• At FrieslandCampina you work on strong, globally loved brands enjoyed by millions every day, like Friso, Campina, Chocomel and Frisian Flag. As a farmer-owned cooperative, we combine an international environment with a clear social and sustainable purpose. We support your growth through training, coaching and internal career opportunities. With trust and autonomy, you can make real impact. Strong collaboration with global experts across Innovation Centers in Wageningen, Singapore, and China.

Employment benefits:

• Salary between €4,550 and €6,000 gross per month (full-time), depending on experience and fit for the role.
• A work week of 32 to 38 hours, a 5% year-end allowance, 10% company bonus, 8% holiday allowance and a pension scheme.
• Hybrid working with flexible working hours, a train card and/or €0.23 per km (max. 30 km one way).
• 200 hours of annual leave, with the option to buy or sell up to 40 hours.
• A laptop, phone and home office equipment to support flexible working.
• Wellbeing and inclusion initiatives, such as health support, employee assistance programs and diversity initiatives.
• Extras at the head office, such as milk and cheese during lunch, fresh fruit and barista coffee.

Vacancy description:

1. Scientific communication & stakeholder engagement:

• Translate complex science into clear, compelling communication for diverse audiences (customers, healthcare professionals, consumers).
• Develop and review scientific materials, including dossiers, product monographs, and educational content.
• Act as a key scientific contact during customer engagements and strategic partnerships.
• Deliver training and presentations to internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Represent the company at scientific conferences and industry events.

2. Scientific leadership & research

• Define, initiate, and lead nutrition research projects in key health domains (e.g., gut health, muscle & mobility).
• Translate emerging nutrition science into clear research strategies and actionable insights.
• Design and guide pre-clinical research in collaboration with internal and external partners.
• Represent FrieslandCampina in scientific consortia, partnerships, and expert networks.
• Interpret complex scientific data and translate findings into business-relevant conclusions.
• Contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations, and thought leadership.

3. Product innovation & substantiation

• Provide expert nutritional input to product development and renovation projects.
• Define and substantiate nutritional benefits and claims in line with regulatory frameworks.
• Translate scientific insights into differentiated product concepts and innovation opportunities.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (R&D, Marketing, Regulatory, Analytics) to ensure robust, evidence-based product positioning.
• Support development of nutritional guidelines and standards across product categories.

The R&D Nutrition Team drives science-based innovation and communication across FrieslandCampina. The team:

• Generates and translates scientific insights on dairy nutrition and health.
• Supports product development with evidence-based nutritional expertise.
• Enables substantiation nutritional claims and communication for customers and consumers.
• Engages with external scientific networks and stakeholders.

The team operates globally, collaborating closely with R&D, Marketing, Medical & Regulatory, and commercial teams.