R&D Scientist/Manager

Summary

Join Nutrafol, a growing company pioneering hair wellness, as a scientific expert in early-stage biological targets for hair growth and scalp health. This R&D Innovation team role involves designing and leading preclinical research programs, collaborating with research partners, managing research projects, analyzing data, and communicating findings. You will identify and vet new labs and collaborators, design experiments, manage research collaborations, maintain records and databases, and work collaboratively internally and externally. The ideal candidate possesses expertise in hair/skin biology, particularly in basic and preclinical research, and is a bold visionary, creative problem-solver, and highly organized individual. This position requires strong communication, organizational, and project management skills, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Nutrafol offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package.

Requirements

• PhD preferred
• Bachelor's and/or master’s degree; Biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, nutrition &/or similar field preferred
• 3+ years of post-graduate research experience with an expertise in cell and molecular biology preferred
• Dermatological &/or hair biology knowledge is ideal
• Academic and/or industry early-stage research experience is required
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational skills and R&D project management experience
• Attention to detail and ability to complete tasks on time with a high degree of accuracy
• Show initiative and ability to work as part of a high-level team while working independently
• Proven ability to learn new skills quickly and adapt to new processes smoothly

Responsibilities

• Build and lead research & innovation projects in hair biology, including new targets/biological MOAs/root causes
• Identification of & coordination with labs/external partners to conduct in silico analytical testing, in vitro, “omics” and ex vivo studies, and project progression for evaluation of ingredients and potential discovery of new ingredient(s)
• Lead and execute the experimental design, work plans, data analysis and reporting
• Communication of data, including preparation of presentations, scientific posters and manuscripts for publication
• Track and manage progress on laboratory projects, managing timelines to ensure deadlines are met and roadblocks are solved for as necessary
• Create action plans for new projects generated by internal and external requests, including requests for proposals (RFPs) and/or statements of work (SOW)
• Responsible for coordination across labs, including requesting samples/supplies and documents, item coordination, and shipments, and managing timelines
• Communicate directly with various internal and external partners to research, define, and communicate progress on projects
• Develop firm understanding of internal lab/company processes and databases
• High level of organization and responsiveness for record keeping/data management for reports
• Build and maintain effective relationships which create a high level of trust across multiple functions
• Respond to inquiries by phone, email and in person quickly and professionally
• Participate in meetings with internal/external teams to evaluate and interpret the validity of data, determine methodologies, and evaluate lab procedures impacting the quality and timeliness of research
• Analyze data using statistical methodologies & ability to showcase data/results in a variety of formats
• Communicate with researchers in other laboratories; share ideas and research methodologies to improve the effectiveness of the research
• Track & keep abreast of research techniques, methodologies and literature/IP that may facilitate designated research projects (current or future)
• Monitor the performance of both the Investigator(s) and/or the Laboratory as applicable
• Manage the initiation, draft revision, completion and maintenance of research proposals
• Support maintenance of project documentation files and internal databases with project information/updates, as directed and if applicable

Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding and experience with hair models, various, relevant cell types, co-cultures, organoid, biomarkers, omics, relevant preclinical (in vitro & ex vivo) models desirable
• Publication/patent/external presentation track record and preparation of scientific decks
• Experience with in vitro and ex vivo research activities related to evaluating bio-actives utilized in dietary supplements and/or topical/personal care applications a plus
• Open innovation experience a plus

Benefits

• Fully remote work experience
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision package, including FSA program
• 401K with employer match
• Quarterly Bonus Program
• Flexible PTO
• Two company-wide wellness breaks every day
• Free lunch on us every Tuesday and Thursday via Seamless/Grubhub
• Monthly wellness stipend
• Monthly internet stipend
• Monthly cell phone stipend
• Annual learning & development stipend
• Wellness Program, including virtual Wellness Sessions & No-Meeting Wednesdays
• Free meditation app membership (Headspace)
• Free Nutrafol subscription
• Pet insurance and benefit programs