What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head of Research And Development position at Umaro Foods?
Umaro Foods
Umaro Foods is a leader in developing and commercializing seaweed biorefining technology for sustainable food and materials solutions. We’re searching for a dynamic Head of R&D to lead our scientific and technological efforts. If you’re a visionary with a proven track record in research, chemical process development, and commercialization, this role offers the opportunity to drive innovation and create value in a growing, mission-driven company.
About the Role
As the Head of R&D, you’ll oversee all aspects of research and development at Umaro Foods, guiding projects from inception to commercialization. This is an early, hands-on leadership position within a small but passionate team, offering the unique opportunity to combine strategic vision with day-to-day involvement in critical R&D activities. You’ll play a pivotal role in advancing our core technologies, including the bio-refinement and upgrading of seaweed feedstocks, and scaling innovative solutions for commercialization.
In addition to leading technical efforts, you’ll act as a thought partner to company leadership, helping shape the strategic direction of the business. Your expertise will also be instrumental in fundraising initiatives, including writing funding proposals.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and expand the R&D team, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
- Oversee the execution of two large DOE-funded projects, ensuring milestones are met on time and within budget.
- Provide strategic oversight and support scale-up of Umaro’s plant-based bacon from product and process optimization to commercial production .
- Coordinate and guide the end-to-end protein and alginate extraction processes from brown seaweeds, advancing bench-scale research to pilot and commercial stages.
- Develop and execute strategies for advancing alginate extraction and polymer chemistry applications.
- Drive the patent process, from invention disclosures to securing intellectual property rights.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and external stakeholders, to bridge R&D with business goals.
- Support the company’s fundraising efforts.
- Identify opportunities for new product innovation and technical advancements to create value for the company and its investors.
- Represent Umaro Foods as a scientific and technical leader in external engagements.
What We're Looking For
Experience : 10 years in R&D leadership roles within chemical engineering, polymer chemistry, or related fields. Food or bioprocessing experience is a strong plus.
Technical Skills :
Leadership : A proven ability to build, manage, and inspire teams.
Collaboration : Exceptional interpersonal skills to work effectively with internal teams, investors, and partners.
Strategic Vision : Ability to align R&D efforts with business objectives and drive commercialization.
Entrepreneurial Spirit : A self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Fundraising & Communication : Demonstrated experience in writing grants and collaborating on venture capital fundraising.
Why Join Us
At Umaro Foods, you’ll work at the cutting edge of sustainable food innovation, leading efforts that directly impact the future of food and biomaterials. As Head of R&D, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping our company’s growth, contributing to a mission that aligns purpose with profitability, and engaging hands-on in breakthrough projects alongside a small but dedicated team.
How to apply
If you’re ready to lead groundbreaking research and bring transformative products to market, we’d love to hear from you. Submit your resume and a cover letter explaining your qualifications and vision for the role to jobs@umarofoods.com or apply via LinkedIn.