Associate Principal Scientist, Data Science - Princeton, NJ

Associate Principal Scientist, Data Science

Location: Princeton, NJ

We are seeking a highly skilled data scientist specialized in Formulation Performance Modeling and Formulation Creation across a portfolio of Innovation projects, as well as ensuring the team is deploying the latest, state-of-the-art technologies and skills to develop, manage and govern various products in food, perfumery and beauty. The candidate would join dsm-firmenich's Data Science team within Science and Research and with focus on Data Science model development and on the translational task between Data Science and Business Units key users and stakeholders.

This role offers the opportunity to drive interdisciplinary science projects that integrate the latest advances in cheminformatics, data science, AI and while working in close collaboration with leading domain perfumery and flavour experts.

Your Key Responsibilities:

Use data science and AI to drive a fast-paced ingredient discovery pipeline that generates maximum value for dsm-firmenich’s, perfumery and beauty, taste, texture and health segments.
Develop and implement ML and AI models for predicting and optimizing performance of formulations in diverse applications.
Contribute to formula creation and product development tools with Data Science models and data pipelines.
Translate scientific research findings into practical applications that can drive business growth. Identify opportunities for commercialization of research outcomes and collaborate with business units to realize these opportunities.
Contribute to the development and adoption of Data Science best practices and by our global community of data scientists, scientists and experts in perfumery and beaty, taste, texture and health segments.
Stay up to date on the latest advancements in cheminformatics, formulation design, computational biology, molecular AI and modeling approaches.
Apply modern software development and machine learning tools and practices in your daily work, including a high level of proficiency in Python, git, and team co-development workflows. Familiarity with good use of coding agents preferred.
Team-up with other data scientists and chemistry and physics science experts around the globe to drive project success.

We Bring:

Highly motivated, professional and committed multicultural and interdisciplinary team.
Opportunity to put your scientific skills into practice with innovations in health, nutrition and beauty.
Grow and develop your skills through our in-house training courses.
Being a part of company shaping a strong legacy heritage through industrial innovations and cutting-edge technology.
A commitment to science-based innovations with 2000 scientists and 700 mm annual S&R investments.

You Bring:

Ph.D., master’s degree or similar experience in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Structural Biology, Computer Science, AI, or a related field.
3-7 years of additional academic or industry work experience in the chemical industry, bio- and cheminformatics or formulation space.
Record of accomplishments demonstrating high drive and keen entrepreneurial innovation.
Strong skills in computational chemistry, cheminformatics, statistics, structural biology, including hands-on development experience of modern AI tools.
Deep understanding of Data Science methods, formulation performance applications, generative AI technologies in chemistry and physics, science informed ML methods.
Proficiency Python, good code management, git, and working with CI/CD pipelines.
Excellent problem-solving skills and proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Effective communication and collaboration skills with the ability to convey complex concepts to non-experts.
Entrepreneur mindset and ability to provide insights based on data analysis to inform business decisions.

The salary or hourly wage scale provided reflects the pay range dsm-firmenich expects to pay the successful candidate for the position. Individual pay offered will be based on the applicant’s job-related skills, experience, relevant education, or training, and primary work location. This position is also eligible for bonuses and benefits, which are not included in the pay scale provided. Salary $128,000-$183,000.

About dsm-firmenich

At dsm-firmenich, we don’t just meet expectations – we go beyond them.

Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life.

From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions – every single day. Whether it’s fragrance that helps you focus, alternative meat that’s better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health, and beauty for everyone, everywhere.

And while you’re making a difference, we’ll make sure you’re growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They’re essential to our future.

Because real progress only happens when we go beyond, together.

The application process

Interested in this position? Please apply online by uploading your resume in English by October 10, 2025.

Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement

At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you.

And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.

Agency statement

We’re managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If you’re applying as an individual, we’d love to hear from you. We’re not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role