Research & Development Intern
Puris
At PURIS, we're dedicated to cultivating a better food system and making a positive impact. How do we do it? By transforming high-quality, USA-made ingredients into essential components for a wide range of everyday products. From cereals and snacks to protein beverages and beyond, our ingredients are powering a healthier future. This is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to be part of a growing food industry. You'll work with state-of-the-art engineering and work together with your peers to build a better food future.
The R&D Intern will support the PURIS Research and Development team in creating and improving innovative plant-based ingredients and finished products. You’ll work alongside food scientists, engineers, and product developers to test formulations, analyze performance, and bring sustainable, great-tasting solutions from concept to commercialization.
If you want to have fun, work in a fast-paced environment and learn how academia translates into real world experience PURIS is the place for you.
Pay Rate/Range: $20.00
Pay Frequency: Biweekly
Work Location: Minneapolis HQ – Fully In Office
Travel: None
Requirements
- Assist in formulation development and testing for new plant-based proteins, starches, and blends.
- Conduct laboratory experiments, collect data, and maintain detailed records of results.
- Support analytical and sensory evaluations to assess ingredient functionality and product quality.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams—including Marketing, Sales, Quality, Engineering, and Operations—on product scale-up trials.
- Help prepare samples and technical documentation for internal and customer evaluations.
- Contribute to process optimization projects focused on improving texture, taste, and nutrition while maintaining sustainability goals.
How You'll Grow
At PURIS, innovation starts in the lab and ends on the plate. Our R&D team transforms crops grown by American farmers into sustainable ingredients that feed the world better. As an R&D Intern, you’ll play a role in shaping the next generation of plant-based nutrition—combining curiosity, creativity, and science to create foods that nourish people and the planet.
Why PURIS?
At PURIS, innovation isn’t a buzzword—it’s breakfast, lunch, and dinner. As an R&D intern, you’ll be part of a team shaping the future of sustainable food from the ground up—literally. Our scientists, engineers, and food visionaries turn yellow peas into the proteins powering tomorrow’s diets, combining curiosity with cutting-edge science to make plant-based food actually taste amazing. You won’t be stuck on the sidelines here—you’ll test, tinker, taste, and transform ideas that feed a growing planet while helping build a cleaner, smarter food system.
- Pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
- Basic understanding of experimental design, lab safety, and data interpretation.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Familiarity with ingredient functionality or food processing preferred.
- Passion for sustainable food systems, innovation, and scientific discovery.
Why Work with Us?
Career Growth: PURIS offers a dynamic work environment where you can develop your skills and advance your career. We are committed to nurturing talent and providing ample opportunities for professional development and growth within the company.
Innovative Environment: You'll have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art engineering and cutting-edge technology. Our dedication to innovation means you'll be part of a forward-thinking team constantly pushing the boundaries of the plant-based food industry.
Strong Values: We uphold integrity and a global vision for the future. Our company culture is built on collaboration, excellence, and a shared commitment to our mission of creating a better food system. This commitment extends to fostering a workplace where safety is paramount in every operation.
Commitment to Sustainability: At PURIS, we are deeply dedicated to creating a sustainable future. Our manufacturing processes are designed to minimize environmental impact and promote regenerative agriculture. By joining our team, you'll contribute to a company that values sustainability and is committed to making a positive impact on the planet.
Join Our Team:
To apply for the role, visit www.puris.com/careers. PURIS is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are welcome, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. The hiring process includes successfully completing a background check, and drug screen. We E-verify all new hires.
INTEGRITY | LEADERSHIP | OPENNESS | GLOBAL VISION | ADAPTABILITY | PARTNERSHIP