Role: Research & Development Graduate
Function: R&D | NPD | Compliance | Sports Nutrition
Reports to: Business Operations Director
Location: Gatwick Head Office, Crawley (On-site)
Compensation: Competitive + 20 days holiday + 8 bank holidays
Background
STYRKR is one of the UK’s fastest-growing performance nutrition brands, trusted by endurance athletes worldwide. We design, formulate, and manufacture science-led sports nutrition products in-house and supply both our own brands and external partners across the UK, US, EU, and beyond.
As we scale, we’re hiring a hands-on R&D Graduate to help drive new product innovation and compliance.
This is a practical, fast-paced role with real ownership from day one — ideal for someone curious, commercially aware, and ready to roll their sleeves up and learn fast.
You’ll work directly with the Business Operations Director and NPD team to take products from concept → formulation → testing → launch.
Main Accountabilities
🧪 Formulation & Innovation:
* Develop and formulate new powder and liquid products
* Create prototypes, samples, and run taste testing
* Research ingredients, trends, and competitor products
* Turn briefs into scalable, commercially viable formulas
🔬 Testing & Compliance:
* Write product specs and technical documentation
* Manage product testing (stability, shelf life, sensory)
* Create and update food & nutrition labels
* Ensure full regulatory compliance (UK/EU food standards)
🚀 New Product Development (NPD) Delivery:
* Own the R&D stage of the NPD process
* Support scale-up from lab to production
* Work with suppliers, labs, and universities
* Contribute to technical and marketing copy when needed
📊 Systems & Reporting:
* Maintain documentation in NetSuite and Monday.com
* Track costs, timelines, and hours
* Monitor KPIs and report progress
* Keep clean, audit-ready records
🦺 Health & Safety Standards:
* Maintain safe, compliant R&D practices
* Support BRC/GMP/ISO/HACCP readiness
* Keep policies, specs, and documentation up to date
What you'll bring:
* Degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Formulation, or related analytical discipline
* Strong Excel skills
* Interest in sports or performance nutrition
* Highly organised with strong attention to detail
* Comfortable working at pace and juggling priorities
* Proactive, hands-on, “get it done” mindset
* Quick learner who takes ownership
What you'll get:
* Direct mentorship and fast skill development
* Real responsibility from day one
* Exposure to end-to-end product launches
* High-impact role in a scaling brand
* Agile, start-up environment with autonomy
* Casual dress, on-site parking, staff discount
* Pension + bonuses
* 20 days holiday + bank holidays (+1 per year of service)
Our Values:
* Be Fearless and Take Risks
* Community of Champions
* Success by Design
* Committed to the Cause
* Get (sh)it Done & Rewrite the Rules
Employment Type: Full-time
Hours: Monday–Friday, 09:00–17:30 (Office-based)