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Principal Scientist - Colour Cosmetics

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Tropic Skincare .We’re building something extraordinary in colour cosmetics, with ambitious expansion plans and a pipeline of innovative products that aim to inspire, empower, and set new benchmarks for sustainable beauty.That’s where you come in. We’re looking for a visionary Principal Scientist - Colour Cosmetics to lead this next chapter. This role goes beyond development; you will architect complete product experiences, from velvety powders to high-impact lipsticks, flawless foundations, mascaras, and beyond. You’ll blend scientific expertise, process engineering, and creative innovation to deliver exceptional performance at scale, mentor rising talent, and collaborate across teams.Key Responsibilities

Develop formulations for colour cosmetics from concept through to commercialisation across makeup formats (e.g., foundations, lipsticks, mascaras, eyeliners, pressed/loose powders, primers, highlighters).Apply process engineering to scale-up and production, including optimisation of powder pressing and process parameters for different product types.Conduct ingredient research, stability studies, and sensory evaluations, integrating raw material insights into high-performance formulations.Perform mechanical and physical testing across powders, sticks, and emulsions (hardness, payoff, spreadability, adhesion, compressibility).Carry out surface and optical analyses (gloss readings, colourimetry, particle size, opacity) and imaging for texture evaluation.Execute performance and wear tests (transfer, rub-off, smudge, water resistance, long-wear) under controlled conditions.Assess sensory and application performance via panel testing, slip measurement, tackiness, and blendability analysis.Collaborate with manufacturing teams to troubleshoot process issues, optimise batch reproducibility, and ensure seamless technology transfer from lab to production.Work with cross-functional teams (Marketing, Regulatory, Manufacturing) to ensure feasibility, brand alignment, and regulatory compliance.Stay ahead of emerging trends, raw materials, and technologies in colour cosmetics.Mentor and develop junior chemists, fostering a culture of innovation, scientific excellence, and continuous improvement.What We’re Looking For

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.15+ years of experience in colour cosmetics development across formulation and process engineering.Proven track record of launching innovative makeup products across multiple formats.Expert knowledge of raw material chemistry, pigment dispersion, emulsion systems, and powder compaction.Strong expertise in scale-up, validation, and technology transfer into manufacturing.Skilled in process equipment operation and optimisation (powder presses, mills, mixers, filling lines).Proficiency in instrumental testing (glossmeter, spectrophotometer color analysis, rheology, texture analysis).Strong understanding of global regulatory frameworks (UK, FDA, EU, ASEAN) and claims substantiation.Confident leader with experience mentoring teams and managing cross-functional projects.Exceptional troubleshooting skills with technical depth, creativity, and commercial awareness.What We Offer

Employment Type: Full-timeLocation: On-site, Tropic HQSalary: CompetitiveBenefits: Generous annual leave, wellbeing support, discounted gym membership, pension, enhanced maternity/paternity leave, exclusive skincare collection, 50% discount for family and friends, annual product allowance, breakfast bar, retailer discounts, social events, well-being perks, on-site parking, cycle-to-work scheme.Start Date: January 2026About Tropic

Susie, our Founder and CEO, started Tropic as a teenager, selling homemade body scrubs to help her mum. Today, Tropic is a fast-growing beauty business with award-winning skincare, body care, hair care, and makeup products that are vegan, cruelty-free, and CarbonNeutral.Our purpose is to help create a healthier, greener, more empowered world—and every team member plays a part in making that vision a reality.Equal Opportunities

Tropic is committed to equal opportunities. We’re a diverse team, welcoming and valuing everyone. We never discriminate and provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities at every stage of the hiring process.We’re looking for the best person for the job—if you’ve got the skills, the passion, and the drive, we’d love to hear from you!

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