R&D Staff

Job Summary

The role is responsible for executing research and development activities to support new product development, covering consumer trend analysis, ingredient and raw material research, laboratory trials, and feasibility assessments. By ensuring that product concepts are innovative, technically viable, and compliant with regulations, this role contributes to delivering consumer-relevant innovations that strengthen company competitiveness and align with business and brand strategies.

Job Description

Market & Consumer Research

1. Conduct market and consumer research by gathering data from social media, primary studies, and industry reports to identify consumer needs and preferences.
2. Analyze food and lifestyle trends (e.g., plant-based, low sugar, immunity-boosting) to translate them into potential product opportunities.
3. Map local and global dietary patterns by comparing Indonesian cultural preferences with international benchmarks to adapt concepts appropriately.
4. Evaluate regulatory guidance from BPOM and Ministry of Health to ensure all proposed innovations comply with health, safety, and nutrition standards.

Ingredient & Raw Material Innovation

1. Search and screen new functional ingredients or active compounds through supplier databases, scientific literature, and networking to enhance product benefits.
2. Evaluate new delivery systems/technologies (e.g., encapsulation, fermentation) through small-scale lab tests to improve efficacy, taste, or shelf life.
3. Conduct preliminary lab trials with new ingredients to validate functionality, stability, and compatibility with current processes.
4. Identify and assess novel raw materials by collaborating with vendors and internal stakeholders to expand the ingredient pipeline.
5. Document ingredient features and performance in an innovation database to ensure traceability and support future R&D decision-making.

Product Concept Development

1. Develop product innovation concepts from consumer/marketing proposals by testing feasibility, defining target claims, and aligning with company strategy.
2. Prepare research reports and feasibility assessments including technical, cost, and compliance evaluations to support concept approval.
3. Perform research on patent opportunities and conduct novelty checks to check the potential of securing intellectual property protection and competitive advantage.
4. Support innovation planning by outlining product development roadmaps with clear milestones, resources, and accountabilities.

Collaboration & Support

1. Collaborate with Procurement and external vendors to evaluate material quality, negotiate trials, and ensure reliable supply for development projects.
2. Engage with academic institutions or research partners to conduct validation studies, share expertise, and strengthen product credibility.