Applied Research Scientist

Position: Applied Research Scientist (12-month contract)
WHAT ON EARTH IS DECIEM?
We are a collective of disrupters and doers, of creatives and scientists, with a mission to reimagine the world of beauty.

Since inception, our vertically integrated structure, including our own laboratories, manufacturing, retail stores, and brand infrastructure, have enabled us to rapidly identify opportunities and deliver quality. Home to The Ordinary, NIOD, AVESTAN, and other emerging brands, our goal is to create with purpose. We were founded on the principle of doing everything that others don’t. Because normal gets you nowhere.

We are DECIEM, The Abnormal Beauty Company.

We are growing rapidly and we’re looking for someone who shares this vision and wants to grow with us!

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
At DECIEM, the  Applied Research Scientist  plays a pivotal role in driving upstream  scientific innovation  and translating  raw material research  and emerging technologies into high-performing  product concepts  across our portfolio. Operating at the intersection of  scientific ideation ,  formulation science , and  cross-functional collaboration , this position bridges  ingredient discovery  with  commercial product  reality by recommending  raw materials  (RM’s)/ cosmetic active ingredients , establishing  proof-of-concept testing  strategies, and  optimizing formulation  robustness.

This position is for a  12-month contract  and will be based out of our  Head Office , located in  Liberty Village Toronto . Candidates will need to work  on-site 5-days a week .

PAY RANGE
The anticipated base salary for this position is $67,000 to $73,000.

Exact salary depends on several factors such as experience, skills, education, and budget. Salary range may vary based on geographic location.

WHAT YOU'D BE DOING IN THIS ROLE

Research raw materials (RMs) and cosmetic active ingredients to identify modes of action (MOA) and biological pathways, recommending optimal delivery systems to maximize claim substantiation, cost-effectiveness, and formula efficacy.

Collaborate with cross-functional scientific departments to select RMs/ cosmetic active ingredients and emerging technologies that enhance formulation robustness for New Product Developments (NPDs).

Proactively manage all aspects of RMs/ cosmetic active ingredient selection.

Support the develop proof-of-concept testing strategies and protocols in coordination with Clinical and Analytical teams.

Generate comprehensive technical guidance documents to support cross-functional alignment and technical transfer.

Lead the development of scientific product concepts for NPDs, presenting and securing necessary buy-in from critical stakeholders.

Identify opportunities for innovation and propose new concept initiatives for brand portfolio expansion.

Aid to troubleshoot existing product issues following detailed root-cause analysis and execute structured action plans.

Actively engage in supplier meetings, industry conferences, and scientific seminars to remain updated on cutting-edge industry trends and RM innovations.

Assist in preparing technical documentation for Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax credits, grants, and patent filings for new Intellectual Property.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED TO GET THE JOB DONE

Minimum 3+ years of research related to topical applications or research related to ingredient selection

Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related scientific field

Good technical knowledge of existing and latest developments in cosmetic formulation technology, cosmetic active ingredients, and functional raw materials

Practical knowledge of product behaviour and active ingredient stability issues in cosmetic formulations, and the strategies to overcome them

Strong knowledge of GLP and GMP guidelines, and…