Passionate food professionals now have the chance to develop a new set of skills with the latest short course from Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh – an institution known for its rich history in food studies.

The new course, ‘Developing a Food Sensory Analysis Panel’ will help those working in the food industry develop a trained sensory analysis capacity at the company they are working for, or even implement analysis of their own products.

This type of research has been used for decades, with the purpose of accepting or rejecting new products, making it a beneficial skill for anyone working in the sector.

Participants can expect to gain the knowledge and practical understanding required to set up their own trained consumer panel; create a questionnaire; develop their own tests to detect and quantify specific product attributes such as texture and flavour; evaluate the performance of the panel; and analyse the results obtained.

This flexible course has been designed to fit into people’s busy lifestyles. Starting in September, it combines online workshops and practical work, which will be carried out within the work environment.

‘Developing a Food Sensory Analysis Panel’ will be delivered by two of QMU’s specialist tutors with experience in both academia and industry, Dr Julien Lonchamp and Dr Anil de Sequeira.

Dr Anil de Sequiera, Senior Lecturer in Food Science and Programme Leader for BSc (Hons) Food Science and Innovation at QMU, said: “These unique short courses provide participants with the perfect platform to branch out and re-skill – something that will always be looked upon favourably on your CV.

“We have been teaching food related science courses for over twenty years and have strong relationships with industry experts in the sector, making QMU an ideal place for anyone thinking about advancing their understanding of food, and invigorating their enthusiasm for learning.”

Each year, QMU offers a range of these interesting short courses aimed at people wanting to learn something new or who are perhaps considering returning to higher education but want to dip their toe in the water before fully embracing a postgraduate degree.

Most of QMU’s courses are designed to be studied in a flexible way, helping you manage your work, family or caring commitments, while still investing in yourself and developing crucial skills for the future.

To find out more about ‘Developing a Food Sensory Analysis Panel,’ please visit: www.qmu.ac.uk/study-here/short-courses/short-courses/developing-a-food-sensory-analysis-panel

For more information on QMU’s full set of short course options, please visit: www.qmu.ac.uk/study-here/short-courses