Research and Grants Development Specialist

About the role

The Research and Grants Development Specialist supports the Director of the Food Innovation Institute (FOODii) by leading grant development and providing technical expertise on emerging food processing and ingredient technologies. The role balances research support for institute tenants with the full grant lifecycle, from opportunity identification to post‑award reporting.

Key responsibilities

• Serve as technical lead on research initiatives, coordinating experimental design, execution, and sensory analysis for FOODii projects and tenant product development.
• Design and conduct sensory evaluation experiments, prepare reports, and evaluate new equipment, ingredients, and processing methods.
• Identify and pursue external funding opportunities aligned with FOODii’s strategic goals, drafting proposals, budgets, and supporting documentation.
• Maintain a pipeline of prospective grants, coordinate with LSU AgCenter Office of Sponsored Programs, and support post‑award compliance.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Sensory Science or related field with at least three years of applied research experience.
• Strong technical writing ability to translate scientific work into compelling grant narratives.
• Proven ability to manage multiple deadlines and work independently.

Required skills

• Sensory analysis and experimental design
• Grant proposal development and budgeting
• Knowledge of emerging food processing technologies such as extrusion processing and precision fermentation

What we offer

• Comprehensive benefits package including retirement, medical, dental, vision, and flexible benefits plans.
• Generous vacation, sick leave, and university holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and potential educational leave.