Vacancy for Whisky Maturation Analysis Research Scientist at Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt University and Diageo Scotland Ltd. are seeking a KTP Associate for a collaborative project to develop a platform for integrating data sciences and analytical methods with human sensory input that will enable prediction of the outcome of whisky maturation in wooden casks. The position will be based at the Diageo Technical Centre, Glenochil, Menstrie, Clackmannanshire. Diageo Scotland Ltd.’s principal activities are the distillation, warehousing, maturation, bottling and packaging of Scotch whisky and other spirits and distribution to fellow group undertakings and third parties. The company performs manufacturing services on behalf of several Diageo brand owning companies.

The post will involve working with colleagues at Heriot-Watt University and Diageo Scotland Ltd. to develop our understanding of the complexity of whisky maturation through integration of chemical analysis of barrels and spirit (identifying key chemical signatures) with sensory data relating to barrel preparation (from coopers) and from maturing spirit (from distillers and blenders) within a machine learning environment that will ultimately be used to support prediction of the flavour and quality outcomes of maturation. Integrating quantitative physico-chemical analytical data with sensory data within a data analytics approach is novel and represents the central challenge of the blend of craft and science that is necessary to drive this project.

For more information on how to apply, see our vacancies page.