DescriptionThe Scientific Communications Senior Scientist will support Makeup R&I by translating complex formulation and ingredient performance technologies into clear, compelling science storytelling. This includes developing relevant claim language, articulating technical differentiation, and creating intuitive visualizations that help explain product mechanisms.
This role will partner closely with Makeup R&I, Brand Product Development, and Marketing teams to uncover and communicate the scientific drivers behind observable makeup benefits, including texture, wear, film formation, pigment dispersion, and polymer functionality. The focus is to go beyond performance description by connecting what consumers see and feel to the scientific mechanisms that make those benefits possible.
The ideal candidate combines strong scientific literacy with a genuine passion for cosmetics and beauty culture. This role will translate the transformative power of color cosmetics into scientific evidence for meaningful, consumer-relevant insights that help shape testing direction, inform product strategy, strengthen claims, and elevate science-led storytelling across makeup innovation
1) Makeup Science Storytelling
• Translate formulation science (e.g., pigment dispersion, elastomer networks, film formation, sensory modifiers, color science theories) into clear, benefit-driven messaging
• Develop scientific narratives that support product claims, education, and marketing storytelling
• Distill complex, multi-factorial performance into simple, compelling "so what" messages
2) Visual & Mechanism Communication
• Convert invisible functions (e.g., polymer networks, film layers, color science, powder interactions, oil control mechanisms) into intuitive diagrams and visual stories, and consumer-friendly demonstrations.
• Sketch or storyboard mechanisms before handing off to design teams to ensure scientific accuracy
• Partner with creative teams to refine visuals that are both scientifically credible and visually appealing
3) Scientific Research & Literature Interpretation
• Identify, review, and summarize scientific literature relevant to cosmetic chemistry, materials science, pigments, polymers, and film-forming systems
• Translate complex findings into concise internal summaries and actionable insights for cross-functional teams
• Track emerging trends in makeup technology (e.g., long-wear, transfer-resistance, blurring systems, skin-mesh polymers)
4) Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Partner closely with Makeup R&I, Advanced Technology, Material Science, Clinical, Regulatory, Brand Product Development, and Marketing teams to align scientific understanding across stakeholders.
• Support product development and communication needs through clear project management, timelines, follow-ups, and consistent cross-functional communication.
5) Beauty Culture & Consumer Insight Integration
• Maintain strong awareness of prestige beauty landscape (Sephora, social media, influencers, emerging brands)
• Translate consumer trends and cultural insights into stronger, more relevant scientific storytelling
• Actively monitor social platforms (e.g., Instagram, TikTok) for product trends and narratives
QualificationsMinimum Education Level: Bachelor's degree or higher in a STEM field, advanced degree preferred (Cosmetic science, Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or related)
Minimum years of Experiemce: 3-5 years of professional experience (industry preferred; cross-functional project experience required)
Required Qualifications
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with ability to simplify complex content
- Demonstrated ability to search, interpret, and summarize scientific literature
- Experience working in a collaborative, cross-functional environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience or exposure to cosmetic science, especially color cosmetics or formulation systems
- Strong interest in makeup products and retail (e.g., enjoys exploring Sephora or equivalent environments)
- Ability to translate scientific concepts into visuals (diagramming, presentation)
- Familiarity with polymers, emulsions, powders, pigments, color science, or materials science related to makeup
Experience creating content for different audiences (technical, marketing, consumer-facing)
Pay Range:The anticipated base salary range for this position is
$75,350.00to $112,500.00. 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 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.
