Senior Protein Chemist

Background

Tri‑K Industries is one of the leading suppliers of natural actives such as proteins, peptides, and a comprehensive cosmetic ingredients portfolio to the personal care industry. It has an R&D center with state‑of‑the‑art equipment and testing facilities. To strengthen its innovation capabilities and improve customer connectivity, the R&D organization focuses on developing new innovative ideas, products, and formulations with proven efficacy.

This senior‑level R&D position is part of the manufacturing organization based in Derry, NH.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced protein chemist to join our team. The ideal candidate should have a PhD in protein chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field, or have at least three years of experience in protein synthesis, characterization, purification, and analysis.

• Develop and optimize protein and peptide purification protocols.
• Characterize and analyze proteins and peptides using techniques such as HPLC, SDS‑PAGE, and LC‑MS.
• Perform chemical reactions to implement protein modification.
• Conduct protein stability studies and develop formulations to improve protein stability.
• Collaborate with other scientists to develop new protein‑based cosmetic ingredients and products.
• Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment.
• Write technical reports and present findings to internal and external stakeholders.
• Search and evaluate published literature to understand hair and skin substrates, new protein technologies, and new methodologies.
• Research the latest market trends, customer needs, and competitor positioning.
• Provide guidance to the Technical Services Team in addressing customer inquiries.
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Business Managers to ensure effective marketing claims and continuing positive client relationships.
• Investigate possibilities and benefits of line extensions and functional blends surpassing industry standards.
• Research the feasibility of combining proteins with other chemistries and technologies that promote synergistic effects.
• Research prior patents to allow for “freedom to operate.”
• Explore new partnerships and collaborations with academia.

• Strong knowledge of protein chemistry and biochemistry.
• Experience with protein purification techniques such as chromatography and ultrafiltration.
• Experience with protein analysis techniques such as HPLC, SDS‑PAGE, and LC‑MS.
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Strong technical and strategic acumen.
• Exceptional verbal, written communication, and presentation skills.
• Comfort and capability to work effectively in a collaborative cross‑functional organization.
• Project management: develop project plans and complete projects on time and within budget.
• Strong time management and prioritization skills.
• Innovation: develop and present innovative approaches and ideas.

• Education/
  
  Experience:
  
  PhD in protein chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field; or at least three years of experience in protein synthesis, characterization, purification, and analysis.
• Scientific Language Ability: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret scientific periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations; ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals; ability to present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, and customers.
• Analytical
  
  Skills:
  
  Ability to solve practical problems and deal with numerous assumptions and variables in situations where only limited standardization exists; knowledge of MS Suite and other PC tools is essential.

This position requires working at the Derry, NH R&D center five days a week, unless traveling to attend trade shows or visit other Tri‑K sites.

10% travel including domestic/international with overnight stays to drive business development efforts.

Associate

Full‑time

Science

Cosmetics