Sensory and consumer science is the light that guides the way forward for businesses by investigating what consumers really want.

What Sensory and Consumer Scientists Do

Sensory scientists spearhead product development for companies. Not only do they conduct research and testing to gauge what consumers are drawn to, but they also use it to inform the development and improvement of new products.

There is a wide range of jobs that rely on sensory science, all of which involve understanding a product’s sensory experience to improve its quality. Food scientists and technologists, research managers and directors, sensory scientists and sensory and consumer insight specialists are some of the many facets of sensory science.
 

“Sensory science is a broad and complex field with many strategic business applications. The methods taught and utilized in our field can be applied to nearly all types of products and services,” Rebecca Bleibaum, president/chief of sensory intelligence, Dragonfly SCI, Inc. 

Core Skills for Today’s Sensory Scientists 

Today’s sensory scientists are increasingly expected to work at the intersection of traditional sensory research and modern data science. Alongside core skills like experimental design and consumer testing, they are now using AI and machine learning tools to analyze large, complex datasets and identify patterns in consumer perception that may not be visible through conventional methods. These tools can help predict preferences related to taste, texture, aroma and overall product experience, while also improving the speed and scale of insight generation. 

The role of sensory scientists is shifting from collecting and interpreting sensory data to also working with digital systems that automate parts of analysis and support faster decision-making. This requires strong data literacy, familiarity with emerging analytics tools and the ability to translate AI-generated outputs into clear, actionable product insights.

When looking to hire sensory scientists, employers generally seek prospective employees with experience in market research, including a variety of consumer testing techniques, descriptive analysis methodologies and focus groups. Sensory scientists also need to be familiar with the various dimensions of conducting research, such as designing experiments, managing studies, statistical analysis and interpreting data, ensuring high quality results and communicating results with impact. Interpersonal, collaborative and critical thinking skills also go a long way in this field.

Where Sensory Scientists Work

Consumer and sensory scientists are valuable additions to any team, especially in industries that create highly interactive products. The food and beverage industries and personal care and cosmetics industries hire the most consumer sensory scientists. Companies like Nestle or Mérieux NutriSciences keep sensory science professionals in high demand. As it is a dynamic field, there are some associations for industry news, events, networking opportunities and career development, including the Institute of Food Technologists and the Society of Sensory Professionals.

When looking to hire sensory scientists, employers generally seek prospective employees with experience in marketing research, including a variety of consumer testing techniques, descriptive analysis methodologies and focus groups. Sensory scientists also need to be familiar with the various dimensions of conducting research, such as designing experiments, managing studies, statistical analysis and interpreting data, ensuring high quality results and communicating results with impact. Strong technical, interpersonal, collaborative and critical thinking skills go a long way in this field.

Preparing for Roles in Sensory Science Through Continuing and Professional Education

Earning a certificate in applied sensory and consumer science is a good way to build valuable skills and gain the sensory science training employers are looking for. UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education’s online Applied Sensory and Consumer Science Certificate Program is the only one of its kind and provides an introduction to the complex world of sensory science. 

The program combines academic and real-world expertise and explores new techniques, as well as the foundational theory behind current methods of sensory evaluation for both edible and non-edible products. You will learn various methods and approaches to sensory evaluation and consumer research from experienced sensory science professionals. Courses must be taken in sequential order as each course builds upon the concepts and skills developed in the previous course, and applicants must have fulfilled the prerequisite college-level statistics course.

Program Details

• Complete in 12 months
• 4 online courses
• $8,800
• Taught by veteran industry experts
• Provides a forum for sensory science professionals from around the world to network

Related article: Why Study Applied Sensory and Consumer Science?