Consumer scientist

You’ll usually need a degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject like:

• consumer studies
• food and consumer product management
• food science or technology
• psychology
• marketing
• statistics

Some employers may ask for a postgraduate qualification in behavioural psychology or consumer behaviour.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You may be able to apply directly if you've got relevant experience in a related industry, for instance food manufacturing or market research analysis.

You'll need:

• knowledge of English language
• analytical thinking skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to use your initiative
• customer service skills
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• persistence and determination
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Your day-to-day duties may include:

• researching and writing reports
• testing recipes
• recruiting and training panels or focus groups
• conducting interviews with consumers
• researching the tastes, needs and preferences of consumers
• giving advice to manufacturers and retailers on improving items and services
• developing tests to make sure products meet quality standards and legal requirements
• representing consumers' rights 
• advising hotels, restaurants, schools, residential care homes or hospitals on catering
• advising on products ranging from household goods to public places
• producing information on cookery, family health and new products
• talking with the media
• advising on healthy living in schools, colleges and universities
• working for bodies like the Food Standards Agency or Trading Standards

You could work in a laboratory, at a university or in an office.