Functional Lead: Functional Beverage Platform

Carlsberg Group; København; On-site; DKK 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Carlsberg Group in Copenhagen, DK is seeking an experienced scientist to lead the Functional Beverage Platform, focusing on health and well-being perspectives for ingredients and fermentation-derived solutions. You will establish a scientific framework to prioritize bioactive molecules and translate insights into guidance for cross-functional teams, shaping research priorities and prototype development.

This role requires leadership across disciplines, strong networks, and a track record of

Qualifications

• PhD in Human Nutrition, Human Physiology, Food Science with a health focus.
• Minimum 5 years’ post-PhD experience.
• Strong cross-functional project leadership experience.
• Knowledge of health-relevant bioactive molecules and ingredients.
• Experience with substantiation for functional foods/bev concepts.
• Initial people leadership experience or potential.
• Strong academic and industry networks; collaboration in research/clinical studies.
• Proven publication track record.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement a robust scientific framework for evaluating functional ingredients and bioactive molecules.
• Assess and prioritize functional solutions based on biological relevance and evidence strength.
• Translate complex scientific data into actionable guidance for cross-functional teams.
• Provide strategic input to research priorities and innovation pipelines.
• Support prototype development, connecting validated bio functional properties with consumer concepts.
• Build and maintain strong networks with academic, clinical, and industry partners.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Scientific communication

Publications

Education

PhD in Human Nutrition/Human Physiology/Food Science

5+ years post-PhD experience

Job description

Posting Date: 11 Sept 2026

Location: Copenhagen, DK

Entity / company: Central Office

Functional Lead: Functional Beverage Platform

Functional Lead: Functional Beverage Platform

We are looking for an experienced scientist to lead our Functional Beverage Platform, bringing a strong human health and well-being perspective to the evaluation of ingredients, raw materials, and fermentation-derived solutions. In this role, you will establish the scientific foundation for prioritizing bioactive molecules based on emerging evidence, biological relevance, and strength of data.

By translating complex scientific insights into clear and actionable guidance, you will shape research priorities and drive evidence-based innovation. Your leadership will also guide the development of beverage prototypes that connect promising bio functional ingredients with inspiring product concepts — creating health-relevant solutions with impact.

What you’ll be doing

• Define and implement a robust scientific framework for evaluating functional ingredients and bioactive molecules.
• Assess and prioritize functional solutions based on biological relevance and evidence strength.
• Translate complex scientific data into actionable guidance for cross-functional teams.
• Provide strategic input to research priorities and innovation pipelines.
• Support prototype development, connecting validated bio functional properties with compelling consumer concepts.
• Build and maintain strong networks with academic, clinical, and industry partners.

What we’re looking for

You are a scientifically accomplished and strategically minded leader who thrives in a cross-functional setting. You combine deep scientific expertise with the ability to communicate insights clearly and drive collaboration across multiple disciplines.

Must-have qualifications:

• PhD in Human Nutrition, Human Physiology, Food Science with strong human health focus, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant post-PhD experience.
• Solid experience in scientific project leadership with cross-functional or external partners.
• Extensive knowledge of health-relevant functional molecules, bioactive compounds, and ingredient-derived functionalities.
• Understanding of scientific substantiation requirements for functional food and beverage concepts.
• Initial experience in people leadership or clear potential to lead teams.
• Strong academic and industry networks, with experience in collaborative research or clinical studies.
• Proven experience in authoring scientific publications.

What you can expect

In Carlsberg, we are brewing for a better today and tomorrow and what we can offer you is an equal opportunity to grow across our company.

All of this is taking place in culturally diverse environment, where we celebrate our successes together and where no matter where you are from, who you are, or what experiences you bring to the table, all we say is: WELCOME YOU!

The deadline for applying is 27th of September 2026.

Carlsberg Group: Brewing for a better today and tomorrow

For us success has always been in the diverse mix of our people, our beers and our brands. At Carlsberg, we want to recruit and develop people with a global mindset, cultural understanding, and international experience to ensure that our organization stays agile, inclusive and prepared for future growth. Only by acknowledging and harvesting from different perspectives and experiences, will we gain competitive advantage and leverage the effect of diversity for business growth. Carlsberg aims to create equal access to opportunity regardless of social identity, and we encourage everyone to apply regardless of gender, nationality, race, religion or any other characteristics protected by law.