Internship : R&D Fermentation Engineer

Mission and key tasks

You will collaborate with the Sourdough and Grains department of the business unit on an exciting development project in the field of bakery.

Your mission and main tasks:

• You will improve the organoleptic and functional qualities of a specific sourdough through innovative ingredients and optimization of process conditions (at the laboratory scale and in 15L bioreactors).

• You will characterize the sourdough in terms of performance and organoleptic improvement: leavening power, acidification, baking test & sensory analysis.

• You will report and present regularly during team meetings and briefings.

• You will be involved in formulation work and recipe optimization to enhance product quality and consistency.

• You will design and conduct experiments, using a scientific approach to validate hypotheses and optimize processes, taking into account sustainability and health-related considerations.

• You will carry out bibliographic research to support your experimental work and propose innovative ideas based on the latest scientific and technological developments.

• You will prepare internal reports and present your progress regularly during team meetings and briefings.

• You will contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory practices and organization, as an active member of the lab team.

• You will ensure proper maintenance and cleanliness of equipment and workspaces.

• You will perform tests for internal R&D projects and may occasionally collaborate with the headquarters’ R&D and Marketing teams.

Who are we looking for?

• You are pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in food sciences, food technology, bioengineering, or related studies; with an interest in microbiology.

• You are eager to learn more about R&D.

• You are dynamic, pragmatic, and proactive.

• You have good communication, presentation, planning, and organizational skills.

• You are genuinely interested in the world of bakery, pastry, or chocolate.

• You are fluent in French and/or English.

• Having initial experience in the food sector is a plus.

• You are looking for an internship lasting 4 to 6 months (or more) in Belgium.

• You preferably have a car but the train station is 10 minutes away by bike.

Practical info’s

• Period of the internship : Starting in January 2027
• Duration of the internship : minimum 4 months
• Location of the internship: Puratos Andenne
• To be eligible for this role, candidates must hold a valid work and residence authorization allowing employment in Belgium. Puratos is not sponsoring work permits or visa applications for this position.

Who are we?

Puratos is a growing, international, Belgian family business with a team of more than 11 000 employees worldwide. Since 1919, we have been developing, producing and distributing innovative ingredients for the bakery, patisserie and chocolate sectors and helping our customers to be successful. We are committed to the health and well-being of people and protecting the planet.

Are you looking for the right recipe for your career? Choose Puratos, a Top Employer in Belgium.

We at Puratos cultivate an inclusive global workplace, that fully embraces diversity and equal opportunities for all. We strive to reflect the richness of our customers, communities and society, accelerating our ability to innovate and deliver on our commitments.