KTP Associate - Coated Fish Products Improvement Technologist

Are you ready for your next challenge?  Have an interest in seafood or food processing?

Are you passionate about solving real-world food science challenges and increasing the sustainability of seafood?  Are you eager to apply your skills and knowledge to drive innovation and accelerate your career?

We are seeking a KTP Associate – Coated Fish Products Process Improvement Technologist for an exciting 24-month Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between the University of Lincoln and Hilton Foods Seachill, part of the of £4Bn turnover Hilton Food Group.

What You'll Be Doing 

You’ll play a pivotal role in developing and implementing ground-breaking techniques for raw materials functional quality assessments and implementing flexible techniques to ensure reliable and consistent production. The KTP aims to develop and embed an innovative, science-led optimisation framework initially targeting improvements in Coated Fish Products production.

By working alongside Seachill’s industry leaders and academic food industry experts from the University of Lincoln, you’ll contribute to designs that meet real industrial needs while embedding cutting-edge knowledge within the company. This unique multidisciplinary project will empower you to make a lasting impact in the field of adaptive food processing

What We’re Looking For 

A strong academic foundation: Honours degree or level 6 equivalent(essential) or Master’s/PhD (desirable) in Food Science or Food Science and Technology or a related field with some knowledge of Food science and processing.Hands-on experience: Practical experience in performing scientific and technological investigations in a university or food industry environment directed towards acquisition of new knowledge.Innovative problem-solver: Strong critical thinking and organisational skills with the ability to manage complex data and develop new analytical models.Team player with initiative: Demonstrated commercial awareness, project management skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

 Why Join Us? 

This KTP offers:

Mentorship and direct support from Seachill’s senior production/operations managers and academic experts from the University’s National Centre for Food Manufacturing (NCFM).Access to a tailored training and development budget (£4,000).Professional growth opportunities, including potential employment post-KTP.The chance to drive ground-breaking operations solutions and contribute to the sustainable future of Hilton Seachill.

 The role is based in Grimsby, UK at the Hilton Seachill’s Estate Road 2 site, and less than 2 miles from the University of Lincoln’s NCFM-Grimsby site. Visits to other Seachill and University of Lincoln sites will be required as part of this role.

To learn more about KTPs, please visit https://www.ktp-uk.org/graduates/  

 Please note that due to funding rules applicants should not:

Have previously been employed or be currently employed by Fastnet or an associated businessHave previously completed a KTP

If you would like further information or an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Dr Graham Purnell ([email protected])

Closing Date: 22 Feb 2026

Department: Research

Salary: Please note, this post is fixed-term for 24 months and full-time at 1 FTE.