Sensory Science Intern

Select Division•Buffalo, NY

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Lactalis USA is hiring a Sensory Science Intern to join its R&D team in Buffalo, New York. This is a hands-on, 12-month, on-site opportunity focused on evaluating the taste, texture, and consumer appeal of dairy products and connecting food science with data-driven insights. The intern will support sensory evaluations and communicate findings to stakeholders across R&D, Marketing, Quality, and Manufacturing. The role requires physical presence in the office under the company’s Hybrid Work Policy. Travel may be required very seldom, and extended hours may be necessary depending on project needs. A computer, phone, and/or allowances may be provided. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties. The intern is expected to support a safe working environment that promotes employee health and well-being.

Requirements

Possess or be actively pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a scientific discipline such as Biology, Chemistry, Agriculture, or a related field.
Strong attention to detail and excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work independently and in teams, with minimal direct supervision.
Ability to interface and maintain effective relationships with departments and employees in a team-oriented organization.
Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines within specified time constraints.
Ability to operate across multiple departments in a transversal environment.
Ability to adapt to a changing work environment.
Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Coursework or experience in Dairy Science or Food Science is preferred.
Interest in Sensory Science.
Experience conducting sensory testing, setup, and interpretation of results.

Responsibilities

Assist sensory scientists in designing, planning, and executing R&D sensory evaluations, including discrimination, descriptive, and hedonic/consumer tests.
Coordinate panel scheduling, sample preparation, and sensory-session setup.
Recruit, train, and calibrate descriptive-analysis panelists.
Analyze sensory data using appropriate statistical methods, including T-test, ANOVA, PCA, cluster analysis, and preference mapping.
Present sensory results to stakeholders in R&D, Marketing, Quality, and Manufacturing.
Drive to various stores to obtain commercially available dairy products for sensory expert panels and other tastings as needed.
Demonstrate commitment to a safe working environment that promotes employee health and well-being.