Lead Skincare R&D & Innovation Chemist

Bayside Group; Sydney; On-site; AUD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Bayside Group presents an opportunity with a leading Australian skincare brand in Ryde, NSW, for a Lead Skincare R&D & Innovation Chemist. You will drive science-led product development and clinical validation.

Based in Ryde, NSW, the role focuses on translating scientific insights into world-class products, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and advancing skin health outcomes. Applicants should hold advanced degrees and have substantial cosmeceutical experience.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Cosmetic Science or related field.
• 5+ years in cosmeceutical or skincare product development.
• Experience with clinical validation and substantiation.
• Strong collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Research skin biology and active ingredients to inform new concepts.
• Support development of long-range NPD pipeline aligned to brand strategy.
• Lead end-to-end formulation, testing and validation.
• Develop science-backed formulations with actives and delivery tech.
• Design clinical testing protocols for safety and efficacy.
• Prepare technical documentation and claims dossiers.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Education, Regulatory, Quality and Supply Chain.
• Partner with external labs and universities to strengthen credibility.
• Support scale-up and manufacturing troubleshooting.
• Identify opportunities to improve formulation and cost.

Skills

Cosmetic science

Clinical substantiation

Analytical skills

Project management

Education

Masters/PhD in Cosmetic Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client is an established, founder-led Australian skincare brand offering results-driven solutions in the thriving dermatological skincare sector. With international growth aspirations and a strong innovation agenda, the business is focused on building a world-class product pipeline and go-to-market execution capability.

What you'll be doing

• Research skin biology, active ingredients and emerging skincare technologies to inform new product concepts and innovation opportunities.
• Support the development of a long-range, consumer-led NPD pipeline aligned to brand strategy and commercial growth priorities.
• Lead and support end-to-end formulation, testing, claims development and clinical validation across new and existing products.
• Develop science-backed formulations targeting key skin concerns, incorporating clinically proven actives and advanced delivery technologies.
• Design and oversee clinical testing protocols to validate product safety, tolerability and efficacy.
• Prepare technical documentation, product scientific data, claims dossiers and scientific publications.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Education, Sales, Regulatory, Quality and Supply Chain teams to support successful product launches.
• Partner with external laboratories, universities, research institutions, suppliers and industry experts to strengthen product credibility and accelerate development.
• Support scale-up, technology transfer and manufacturing troubleshooting while maintaining quality, compliance and commercial feasibility.
• Identify opportunities to improve formulation complexity, cost, sustainability and product performance.

About you

• Master's or PhD qualification in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Science or a related discipline.
• 5+ years' experience in cosmeceutical, skincare, personal care or related product development, ideally with clinical or medical-grade products.
• Proven experience developing and validating skincare products with scientific or clinical substantiation.
• Strong knowledge of dermatology, skin biology, active ingredients, cosmeceutical trends, claims substantiation and product safety standards.
• Experience managing or supporting clinical trials, external testing or independent product validation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, documentation and project management skills.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with both scientific and commercial stakeholders.
• A hands-on approach, high attention to detail and a passion for advancing skin science and improving visible skin health outcomes.

Why join this business?

• Join a respected, founder-led Australian skincare brand in an exciting transformation and growth phase.
• Play a key role in developing world-class, evidence-based performance skincare products.
• Work closely with a collaborative, cross-functional team across R&D, Marketing, Education, Regulatory, Quality, Sales and Supply Chain.
• Contribute to meaningful innovation, scientific claims and product launches that support brand growth in Australia and internationally.
• Enjoy a competitive package and an inclusive, supportive workplace culture.

Lead Skincare R&D & Innovation Chemist Ryde, NSW, AU