Research & Development Food Scientist - Campus Recruiting

We exist to make food the world loves. Our company prioritizes being a force for good, a place to expand learning, explore new perspectives, and reimagine new possibilities. We look for bold thinkers with big hearts who challenge one another and grow together to become the undisputed leader in food.

About the role

The General Mills R&D Leadership Development Program is designed to kick-start your career with 2-3 robust experiences in your first few years. You will build broad experience in technical foundations, functional depth, and professional development while enhancing digital skills in data analysis, project management, and collaboration tools. The program fosters leadership, a learning mindset, a strong peer network, business context, and an understanding of General Mills and Innovation, Technology & Quality (ITQ) culture.

Responsibilities

• Create new products with an emphasis on consumer-first design
• Improve existing products and optimize formulas for consumer appeal, manufacturing, and cost
• Leverage knowledge of food science and ingredient functionality to develop remarkable products
• Create new, improve existing, and eliminate waste from products and processes
• Collaborate with cross-functional internal partners to build and grow businesses
• Engage external partners globally to increase efficiency and identify new capabilities
• Interact with consumers and customers to develop insights and translate them into concepts, prototypes, and commercial offerings
• Develop technical depth and business acumen
• Apply or build digital tools to accelerate learning
• Solve technical problems using new or existing digital tools
• Impact people’s lives and communities worldwide

Requirements

• Pursuing an M.S. or Ph.D. in Food Science or related degree
• Graduating in Winter 2026 or Spring 2027

Qualifications

• Strong academic record
• Demonstrated ability to achieve results and commitment to developing technical and business skills
• Adaptability, curiosity, and inventiveness
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, passion for R&D, enthusiasm, and professionalism
• Demonstrated leadership experience in academic projects, extracurricular activities, or previous work experiences

Work authorization in the U.S. that does not require sponsorship (e.g., H1-B, F-1 OPT, TN visa) is required. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

Location

James Ford Bell Technical Center in Minneapolis, MN

Start Date

February 2027 or July 2027. Relocation assistance is available if eligible.

Pay

The base salary for this position is $83,000. General Mills offers competitive pay reflecting skills, experience, performance, and academic background.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Total Rewards package supporting overall wellbeing
• Eligibility for annual incentive program
• Strong retirement program with generous 401(k) match and company contribution
• Modern health plans and resources for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing
• Robust time-off program for a healthy work-life balance
• Extensive training and development programs for career growth