R&D Senior Scientist (Biocatalysis, Organic Synthesis)

IFF Benicarló, S.L.; Benicarló; On-site; EUR 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

IFF Benicarló, S.L. is seeking a seasoned scientist to advance biocatalysis and organic chemistry for fragrance molecules in Benicarló, Spain (Anchor work model). You will join a global leader at the interface of chemistry and biotechnology to drive sustainable fragrance innovations.

In this role, design and implement novel biocatalytic methodologies, manage projects from concept to scale-up, and mentor junior scientists within a collaborative, multicultural R&D environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry, Biochemistry or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in biocatalysis, ideally in an industrial setting.
• Expertise in enzymatic catalysis and organic synthesis.
• Strong ability to work within interdisciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken).

Responsibilities

• Design and implement novel biocatalytic methodologies for scent molecule development.
• Develop experimental procedures, analyze data, and document results.
• Conduct research projects from early validation through scale-up.
• Explore biotransformation and organic chemistry via literature and IP research.
• Lead projects from concept to completion with creative, scientifically sound solutions.
• Mentor junior scientists and train technical teams.

Skills

Biocatalysis

Enzymatic catalysis

Organic synthesis

Interdisciplinary teamwork

Communication

English fluency

Education

PhD in Organic/Bioorganic Chemistry

Job description

Job Summary

Are you passionate about applying biocatalysis and organic chemistry to create innovative scent molecules that shape the future of fragrance? IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and health & biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products. Within our Scent R&D division, we develop cutting-edge fragrance ingredients and technologies, combining chemistry, biotechnology, and creativity to drive innovation and sustainability across our portfolio. The role is based in Benicarló, Spain (Anchor work model). Be part of an innovative, collaborative, and forward-thinking team where together we can achieve greatness and make a real impact. Your potential is our inspiration.

Where You’ll Make a Difference

• Design and implement novel biocatalytic methodologies with direct application to scent molecule development


• Develop experimental procedures, analyze and interpret data, and ensure accurate reporting and documentation


• Conduct innovative research projects from early-stage validation through to scale-up


• Explore advancements in biotransformation and organic chemistry through literature and IP research


• Contribute to continuous improvement and innovation aligned with IFF strategy


• Prepare technical reports highlighting research outcomes and optimization opportunities


• Project Management Independently manage projects from concept to completion


• Act as project leader, delivering creative and scientifically sound solutions


• Demonstrate strong prioritization and time management across multiple initiatives


• Collaboration & Leadership Collaborate cross-functionally with chemists, biochemists, and chemical engineers


• Mentor junior scientists and trainees, fostering a culture of learning and collaboration


• Deliver training to technical teams and act as a local subject matter expert in biocatalysis

What Makes You the Right Fit

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field


• 3–5 years of experience in biocatalysis, ideally within an industrial setting


• Strong expertise in enzymatic catalysis and organic synthesis


• Proven ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams


• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills


• Fluent in English (written and spoken)


• Self-driven, adaptable, and eager to contribute to innovation

How Would You Stand Out?

• Experience in the flavor & fragrance industry


• Demonstrated experience scaling biocatalytic processes


• Leadership potential with ambition to grow into team or project leadership roles

Why Choose Us?

• Be part of a global leader shaping the future of scent innovation


• Work on cutting-edge technologies at the interface of chemistry and biotechnology


• Collaborative and multicultural R&D environment


• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development


• Exposure to end-to-end innovation from concept to manufacturing


• Strong commitment to sustainability and scientific excellence

Benefits

IFF offers an attractive compensation and benefits package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and work-life balance, including:

• Comprehensive medical coverage for you, with optional coverage for your family


• Pension plan to support your long-term financial security


• Life and accident/disability insurance


• Benefits Club with exclusive discounts and savings on everyday purchases and vacation packages through a wide network of providers


• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offering confidential access to a wide range of wellbeing, financial, and personal support services for you and members of your household

We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential.

We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status.

We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.

Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more

At IFF, we make joy through science, creativity and heart. As the global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, health and biosciences, we deliver groundbreaking, sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products – advancing wellness, delighting the senses and enhancing the human experience. We value an inclusive, creative workplace where all individuals can thrive and do their best work. We consider all qualified candidates equally and based on merit, without regard to religion, ethnicity, national origin, race, age, veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation or disability.