Estee Lauder Companies

Principal Scientist, Scientific Communications

Estee Lauder Companies$87K — $143K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Advanced degree in a STEM field required; MD, PhD, PharmD, or MS preferred
  • 3-5 years' experience in skincare, dermatology, or related fields
  • Strong ability to interpret scientific literature
  • Deep understanding of skin biology and ingredient mechanisms
  • Excellent communication skills to translate complex concepts into accessible language

Responsibilities

  • Translate complex dermatological concepts into clear messaging
  • Develop scientific narratives and communication frameworks
  • Create intuitive visuals for invisible biological processes
  • Collaborate with creative teams for scientifically accurate visuals
  • Review and synthesize relevant scientific research
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to align communication strategies
  • Manage projects with strong organizational skills

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health insurance coverage including medical, dental, and vision
  • Wellness and family support programs
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Retirement savings plans
  • Paid leave programs and holidays
  • Education-related programs
  • Generous vacation time
Full Job Description
Description

This role will shape scientific language, visual frameworks, and claim-support narratives that connect biological differentiation to meaningful consumer benefits. The individual will distill complex science into clear "so what" concepts and transform invisible skin processes into intuitive, engaging communication for cross-functional teams and consumers.

The role will partner closely with Skincare R&I, Clinical, Advanced Technology, Regulatory, Brand Product Development, Marketing, and Creative teams to develop communication around skincare ingredients, modes of action, clinical benefits, and emerging scientific territories, including barrier function, inflammation, skin longevity, pigmentation, hydration, and regenerative pathways.

The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in skin biology and the ability to synthesize complex mechanisms into simple, consumer-relevant narratives while maintaining dermatological and scientific credibility.

Key Responsibilities

1) Skincare Science Storytelling
  • Translate dermatology, skin physiology, ingredient technologies, and mechanisms of action into clear, benefit-driven scientific messaging that is easily understood by a wide range of audiences, including the general public, media, and retailers.
  • Develop scientific narratives, communication frameworks, and claim-support language that help guide product science storytelling, education, and innovation positioning.
  • Distill complex biological pathways, such as inflammation cascades, collagen degradation, melanogenesis, barrier repair, and cellular signaling, into simple and compelling "so what" messages.
  • Partner with R&I and brand teams to articulate scientific differentiation in a way that is credible, ownable, and relevant to consumer needs.

2) Visual & Mechanism Communication
  • Translate invisible biological processes, including cellular signaling, organelle function, barrier lipid organization, enzyme activity, and molecular pathways, into intuitive diagrams and visual stories.
  • Develop mechanism frameworks across multiple biological levels, including skin layer, cell, organelle, and molecular pathway.
  • Sketch, storyboard, or brief scientific mechanisms before design handoff to ensure dermatological and biological accuracy.
  • Collaborate with creative teams to develop visuals that are scientifically accurate, premium, and accessible for both technical and consumer-facing audiences.

3) Scientific Research & Literature Interpretation
  • Review and synthesize scientific literature across dermatology, skin biology, biochemistry, cosmetic science, and related fields to inform communication strategy and inspire new storytelling opportunities.
  • Translate clinical, mechanistic, and ingredient-related findings into concise summaries, strategic insights, and actionable communication.
  • Evaluate ingredient efficacy and mechanisms of action across key skincare technologies, including hyaluronic acid, peptides, retinoids, ferments, anti-inflammatory actives, barrier-supporting ingredients, and emerging bioactive materials.
  • Track emerging trends in skincare science, including skin longevity, inflammaging, regenerative pathways, barrier repair, bio ferments, and dermatology-driven innovation.

4) Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Partner closely with Skincare R&I Advanced Technology, Clinical, Formulation, Product Development, and Marketing teams to align on scientific positioning and communication strategy.
  • Support clinical storytelling and claim substantiation by developing scientifically grounded language and frameworks.
  • Manage projects with strong follow-through, timeline ownership, and cross-functional alignment.


Qualifications

Minimum Education Level: Advanced degree in a STEM field required; MD, PhD, PharmD, or MS preferred. Relevant fields may include biology, dermatology-related sciences, biochemistry, chemical engineering, cosmetic science, or related disciplines.

Minimum Years of Experience: 3-5 years of experience in skincare, dermatology, cosmetic science, clinical research, scientific communication, or a related scientific field.

Required Qualifications -
  • Demonstrated ability to interpret dermatological, biological, clinical, and mechanistic literature.
  • Strong understanding of skin physiology, biological pathways, ingredient mechanisms, and skincare product science.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex biological systems into clear and engaging narratives.
  • Experience working cross-functionally with scientific, clinical, regulatory, marketing, product development, and/or creative teams.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in the beauty, skincare, dermatology, or consumer health industry.
  • Experience working with marketing, product development, consumer insights, or brand communication teams.
  • Ability to translate biological concepts into visual frameworks, including pathway diagrams, skin models, mechanism visuals, and storyboards.
  • Experience creating content for technical, professional, and consumer audiences.
  • Familiarity with clinical claims, substantiation standards, and science-led product storytelling.
  • Strong awareness of skincare brands and products, dermatologist trends, and consumer-facing science communication


Pay Range:

The anticipated base salary range for this position is $87,550.00 to $143,800.00. Exact salary depends on several factors such as experience, skills, education, and budget. Salary range may vary based on geographic location. In addition to base salary, this position is eligible for participation in a highly competitive bonus program as well as participation in the share incentive plan. In addition,

In addition to base salary, this position is eligible for participation in a highly competitive bonus program with the possibility for overachievement based on performance and company results. In addition, The Estée Lauder Companies offers a variety of benefits to eligible employees, including health insurance coverage (medical, dental, and vision insurance), wellness and family support programs, life and disability insurance, retirement savings plans, paid leave programs, education-related programs, paid holidays and vacation time, and many others. Many of these benefits are subsidized or fully paid for by the company.

About Estee Lauder Companies

Estee Lauder Companies Careers

Join the Esteemed Team at Estee Lauder Companies There has never been a more exciting time to explore job opportunities at Estee Lauder Companies, a global leader in prestige beauty. Renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence, Estee Lauder is the perfect place to advance your career in the beauty industry. Work You’ll Do Become a part of Estee Lauder’s professional community and contribute to a company known for its influential brands, dynamic growth, and commitment to diversity and leadership in the market. Our team at Estee Lauder is dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and innovation. Lead with Beauty and Innovation At Estee Lauder, leadership and innovation intersect to create groundbreaking products in skincare, makeup, and fragrance. Work alongside the best in the industry and bring beauty to life in ways that resonate with a global audience. Engage in Meaningful Work Join our team and engage in work that transforms the beauty industry. With positions ranging from product development to marketing, Estee Lauder offers job opportunities that promise professional growth and personal fulfillment. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with an Estee Lauder internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, develop your skills, and network with professionals who are at the forefront of beauty and business. Our internships provide a platform for ambitious individuals eager to make a mark in the beauty world. Benefits and Growth Estee Lauder values the health and well-being of its employees, offering competitive benefits, extensive career development opportunities, and a supportive work environment. We believe in nurturing talent and providing the tools needed for professional and personal growth. Join Our Esteemed Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are hiring creative, curious, and passionate team players who are ready to drive innovation and lead with integrity. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest career tips, company news, and industry insights—all from the people who work at Estee Lauder. Explore how Estee Lauder is leading the way in beauty and discover the exciting career opportunities that await. Interview and Resume Tips Prepare for your future at Estee Lauder with our helpful interview and resume tips. Tailor your application to stand out and showcase how your unique skills and experiences make you the perfect candidate for a position in our team. Networking and Professional Development At Estee Lauder, career growth is bolstered by robust networking opportunities and professional development. Engage with leaders, attend workshops, and participate in training programs designed to hone your skills and expand your professional horizons. Estee Lauder Companies—A Place to Grow and Innovate Whether you’re seeking an internship, employment, or a leadership role, Estee Lauder offers a path to personal and professional success. Join us and contribute to a company that’s setting the standard for excellence in the beauty industry.
Learn more about Estee Lauder Companies
Size
62,000 employees
Market Cap
$89 billion
Industry
Net Income
$928 million
Founded
1946
5 Year Trend
+8.4%
Revenue
$14.1 billion
NASDAQ

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