M.S. or Ph.D. candidate in Animal Science, Animal Nutrition, or related field
Expected graduation in Winter 2026 or Spring 2027
Strong academic performance
Proven ability to deliver results with a focus on both technical and business skills
Demonstrated leadership in academic or extracurricular contexts
Effective communication and interpersonal skills
Curiosity, adaptability, and a passion for R&D
Responsibilities
Create consumer-focused new pet food products
Enhance existing products for appeal and efficiency
Utilize animal science expertise for product innovation
Ensure food and pet safety throughout product development
Collaborate across teams to support business growth
Conduct trials for product formulation and commercialization
Engage with customers for insights and product concept development
Develop digital tools to advance technical processes
Benefits
Relocation assistance (if eligible)
Comprehensive Total Rewards package for overall wellbeing
Competitive salary with annual incentive eligibility
Strong retirement plans with 401(k) matching
Modern health plans for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing
Robust time-off program for work-life balance
Extensive training and development opportunities for career growth
Full Job Description
Research & Development Scientist, Pet Food
General Mills makes food the world loves. The company is guided by its Accelerate strategy to boldly build its brands, relentlessly innovate, unleash its scale and stand for good. General Mills operates in more than 100 countries and markets more than 100 consumer brands, including Cheerios, Nature Valley, Blue Buffalo, Häagen-Dazs, Old El Paso, Pillsbury, Betty Crocker, Totino's, Annie's, Wanchai Ferry and more. Headquartered in Minneapolis, General Mills generated fiscal 2026 net sales U.S. $18 billion.
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AT GENERAL MILLS?
The General Mills R&D Leadership Development Program is a great way to kick-off your career. As part of the program, you will have 2-3 robust experiences in your first few years at General Mills, building broad experience in technical foundations, functional depth, and professional development. You'll develop and enhance your digital skills in this role, gaining experience in data analysis, project management, and/or collaboration tools. The program allows candidates to demonstrate leadership, embrace a learning mindset, build a strong network of peers, develop business context, and learn the General Mills and Innovation, Technology & Quality (ITQ) culture.
WHAT WILL I DO?
Create new products with an emphasis on consumer-first design
Improve existing products and optimize formulas for pet and pet parent appeal, manufacturing, and cost
Leverage knowledge of animal science/nutrition and ingredient functionality to develop remarkable products
Champion food safety, pet safety, pet parent insights, and product quality from product design through production
Collaborate with cross-functional partners to build and grow our businesses
Develop a sound understanding of pet food product development, formulation, and commercialization through the execution of pilot plant and manufacturing trials
Engage external partners to increase efficiency and to identify new capabilities
Interact with pet parents and customers to develop meaningful 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 leveraging new or existing digital tools
Impact people's and pet's lives and communities
WHERE WILL I WORK?
James Ford Bell Technical Center in Minneapolis, MN
IS THIS YOU?
Minimum Qualifications:
Pursuing a M.S. or Ph.D. in Animal Science, Animal Nutrition or related degree
Graduating in Winter 2026 or Spring 2027
Preferred Qualifications:
Strong academic record
Demonstrated ability to achieve results and a commitment to developing technical and business skills
Adaptability, curiosity, and inventiveness
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, passion for R&D, enthusiasm, and the ability to conduct themselves professionally
Demonstrated leadership experience in academic projects, extracurricular activities, or previous work experiences
HUNGRY FOR WHAT'S NEXT?
Start Date of February 2027 or July 2027
Relocation assistance (if eligible)
The base salary for this position is $83,000. General Mills is committed to providing fair and competitive pay that reflects your skills, experience, performance, and academic background. Beyond your salary, you'll receive a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support your overall wellbeing, including:
Competitive salary and eligibility for our annual incentive program
A strong retirement program with a generous 401(k) match and company contribution.
Modern health plans and resources for physical, mental and financial wellbeing
A robust time-off program for a healthy work-life balance
Extensive training and development programs for career growth
We believe in investing in our employees and fostering a collaborative environment where everyone can thrive. Benefits may vary by role, location and other employment status factors.
Applicants for this position must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. General Mills will not sponsor applicants for this position for work visas.
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants must meet a minimum 18-year age qualification.
