Job description
Skincare, Research, and Innovation ConsultantFreelance
Hourly Rate: 60-70/hr per hour (Depending on Experience)
40 hours per week, 3-6 months to start with potential to extend
Hybrid On Site Tuesdays & Thursdays - NYC Office
Client Overview:
Our client is a digital-first beauty brand on a mission to help everyone find joy and confidence in their unique beauty style. By creating physical, digital, and offline experiences inspired by their community, they foster connection, a sense of belonging, and invite people to get involved. The company embraces inclusivity, remains devoted to its customers, and values curiosity, courage, and discernment.
Scientific Director Overview:
Our client is seeking a Scientific Director who will oversee the entire product development process, from project initiation to market launch, with a strong emphasis on selecting active ingredients, applying formulation expertise, sharing scientific insights, and coordinating cutting-edge testing methodologies. Collaborating closely with the Product Development, Packaging Development, Regulatory, and Quality teams, this role will also maintain daily communication with external vendors and CROs. The position is instrumental in driving scientific excellence and will report to the Senior Director of Product.
Scientific Director Responsibilities:
- Build relationships with raw material suppliers and stay updated on ingredient trends.
- Collaborate with Product Development on claims, technology, and ingredient selection to ensure product efficacy and USP.
- Provide technical formulation insights, resolve development challenges, and drive sustainability goals.
- Deliver scientific intelligence on skin biology and ingredients, translating complex concepts into actionable insights for product launches.
- Support product communication, training, and PR with clear ingredient and technology insights.
- Develop and manage testing platforms, propose claims and methods, and coordinate all testing efforts with CROs.
- Track project progress, ensure timely test completion, and work with Regulatory to meet substantiation needs.
- Manage the testing budget, identify new opportunities, and drive innovation across the product portfolio.
- Continue fostering strong supplier relationships and brainstorm new approaches to ingredient performance.
- Provide creative support for marketing and PR and lead broader initiatives as needed.
Scientific Director Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; MS or PhD preferred.
- 8-10 years of technical experience in skincare and/or color cosmetics.
- Strong background in cosmetic formulation, active ingredients, product claims, skin science, and scientific communication.
- Proven experience in managing testing budgets effectively.
- Skilled at building strong relationships with domestic and international vendors and CROs.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts clearly.
- Strategic thinker with a keen attention to detail and the ability to execute tactically.
- Self-motivated and able to take initiative while working independently or as part of a team.
- Adept at managing multiple projects through effective prioritization and planning.
- Demonstrated ability to take ownership and consistently deliver results.
- Team player who is flexible and adaptable to changing environments.
- Deep passion for the beauty industry.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.
