Plant Science Intern

Date: 2 Jun 2025

Country: Netherlands

Function: Innovation, Quality & Food Safety

Sub-Function: Innovation

ofi is a global leader at the forefront of food & beverage consumer trends. Through its complementary portfolio of cocoa, coffee, dairy, nuts and spices ofi delivers sustainable, natural, and plant-based ingredients & solutions to its global and diversified customer base. ofi has 20,000+ employees, is in 51 countries and supplies food and raw materials to over 8,000 customers.

One in five chocolate bars produced anywhere in the world use our cocoa beans and products. We supply enough coffee beans to brew over 90 billion cups of coffee and our nuts, spices and dairy products are used in millions of products around the world. But we don’t just source or grow the raw materials for these products: our team of chefs and food scientists are working closely with our customers, sharing our fresh ideas to inspire new concepts. Making it real at every step, from plant to palate.

We’re also driven by our Purpose – ‘Be the change for good food and a healthy future’. By working with ofi, you’ll be helping to create real impact on the ground. Sustainability is built into our business model - from our offices to our farming operations and supply chains, we’re acting across issues as diverse as farmer poverty, deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.

Introduction

Are you a passionate HBO student with a keen interest in Food Chemistry? Do you want to explore the fascinating world of cocoa beans and gain hands-on experience in a dynamic analytical chemistry lab? Join our Plant Science department at ofi for an exciting internship opportunity that will elevate your skills and career!

The Internship

This internship offers a unique chance to work alongside experienced scientists on projects focused on the characterization of phenolic compounds in cocoa beans from different origins and their potential for color development. You'll develop your skills in extractive and analytical techniques, experimental design, and data analysis, contributing directly to the success of our Plant Science department.

During the internship, you will be committing 5 days per week (40 hours per week) over 8 months. The starting date is the 1st of September, 2025.

Responsibilities

Standardize cutting-edge analytical techniques: Dive into methods like HPLC and NIR.
Hands-on laboratory work: Ensure the delivery of accurate and reliable data.
Data analysis: Interpret results and provide actionable recommendations to drive process improvements.
Maintain meticulous records: Adhere to strict safety protocols.

What You'll Gain

Practical experience: Work in a professional analytical chemistry lab within the food industry.
Competitive Internship Allowance: We believe in rewarding talent.
Mentorship: Receive guidance from experienced scientists.
Exposure: Learn cutting-edge analytical techniques (HPLC, NIR).
Impactful projects: Contribute to meaningful research and development.
Valuable experience: Enhance your data analysis and interpretation skills.
Teamwork: Develop communication skills in an international environment.

This internship is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of food chemistry and cocoa beans. If you're ready to take on meaningful responsibilities and make a real impact, apply now and join us at ofi!

ofi is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, nationality, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants are requested to complete all required steps in the application process including providing a resume/CV in order to be considered for open roles