Research Assistant- Home Fragrance
Solliciteren
Plaats
Brussel1000
Brussel
België
Contract
Vooltijds, Onbepaalde duurDatum gepubliceerd
2026-02-15Online to:
2026-04-16EUR 15.00 HOUR
Research Assistant- Home Fragrance
About the Role
We are seeking a curious, detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our dynamic R&D team focused on candles and fragrance products. In this role, you will provide critical support in the development, testing, and optimization of new and existing products. You will work closely with perfumers, candle developers, and production teams to ensure our products meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and sensory excellence. This is an excellent opportunity to grow your skills in a creative, fast-paced environment at the intersection of art, science, and craftsmanship.
Key Responsibilities
1. Laboratory & Research Support:
Assist in the formulation and testing of candle wax blends (e.g., soy, beeswax, coconut, paraffin) and fragrance compositions (e.g., essential oils, synthetic aroma chemicals).
Prepare lab-scale samples for testing and evaluation.
Conduct routine quality control tests, such as melt point analysis, fragrance load stability, cold/hot throw performance, and burn behavior.
Maintain accurate and detailed lab records, including formulations, test results, and observations.
2. Product Testing & Evaluation:
Perform sensory evaluations of fragrance oils and finished products, documenting scent profiles, longevity, and consistency.
Assist in stability testing (e.g., accelerated aging tests) to assess product shelf life and performance under various conditions.
Test wick performance, burn time, and safety compliance (e.g., soot levels, flame height).
3. Data Management & Analysis:
Organize and analyze experimental data using spreadsheets or basic statistical tools.
Help prepare reports, charts, and presentations for R&D meetings.
Support in maintaining a library of raw materials, safety data sheets (SDS), and fragrance formulas.
4. Cross-functional Collaboration:
Work with the production team to scale up successful lab formulations to pilot or full production.
Collaborate with the marketing and sensory teams to align product development with consumer insights and trends.
Assist in troubleshooting product issues related to fragrance, wax, or performance.
5. Safety & Compliance:
Follow strict safety protocols for handling chemicals, fragrance oils, and hot wax.
Ensure all lab activities comply with industry regulations (e.g., IFRA, ASTM).
Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe lab environment.
Qualifications & Skills
Required:
Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, Perfumery, Material Science, or a related field.
1–2 years of laboratory experience (academic or industrial), preferably in cosmetics, personal care, candles, or fragrance.
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow precise protocols.
Basic understanding of chemical and physical properties of waxes, oils, and fragrance materials.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Preferred:
Hands-on experience with candle making, fragrance blending, or related DIY/artisanal crafts.
Familiarity with GC-MS, HPLC, or other analytical instruments (a plus, but not required).
Knowledge of fragrance regulations (IFRA), ASTM candle standards, or cosmetic safety.
A keen sense of smell and passion for scent design.
What We Offer
Opportunity to work with a creative, passionate team in the growing home fragrance industry.
Hands-on experience in product development from concept to launch.
Competitive salary and benefits package.
Professional development and mentorship in R&D and perfumery.
A collaborative, innovative, and sensory-rich work environment.
We are seeking a curious, detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our dynamic R&D team focused on candles and fragrance products. In this role, you will provide critical support in the development, testing, and optimization of new and existing products. You will work closely with perfumers, candle developers, and production teams to ensure our products meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and sensory excellence. This is an excellent opportunity to grow your skills in a creative, fast-paced environment at the intersection of art, science, and craftsmanship.
Key Responsibilities
1. Laboratory & Research Support:
Assist in the formulation and testing of candle wax blends (e.g., soy, beeswax, coconut, paraffin) and fragrance compositions (e.g., essential oils, synthetic aroma chemicals).
Prepare lab-scale samples for testing and evaluation.
Conduct routine quality control tests, such as melt point analysis, fragrance load stability, cold/hot throw performance, and burn behavior.
Maintain accurate and detailed lab records, including formulations, test results, and observations.
2. Product Testing & Evaluation:
Perform sensory evaluations of fragrance oils and finished products, documenting scent profiles, longevity, and consistency.
Assist in stability testing (e.g., accelerated aging tests) to assess product shelf life and performance under various conditions.
Test wick performance, burn time, and safety compliance (e.g., soot levels, flame height).
3. Data Management & Analysis:
Organize and analyze experimental data using spreadsheets or basic statistical tools.
Help prepare reports, charts, and presentations for R&D meetings.
Support in maintaining a library of raw materials, safety data sheets (SDS), and fragrance formulas.
4. Cross-functional Collaboration:
Work with the production team to scale up successful lab formulations to pilot or full production.
Collaborate with the marketing and sensory teams to align product development with consumer insights and trends.
Assist in troubleshooting product issues related to fragrance, wax, or performance.
5. Safety & Compliance:
Follow strict safety protocols for handling chemicals, fragrance oils, and hot wax.
Ensure all lab activities comply with industry regulations (e.g., IFRA, ASTM).
Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe lab environment.
Qualifications & Skills
Required:
Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, Perfumery, Material Science, or a related field.
1–2 years of laboratory experience (academic or industrial), preferably in cosmetics, personal care, candles, or fragrance.
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow precise protocols.
Basic understanding of chemical and physical properties of waxes, oils, and fragrance materials.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Preferred:
Hands-on experience with candle making, fragrance blending, or related DIY/artisanal crafts.
Familiarity with GC-MS, HPLC, or other analytical instruments (a plus, but not required).
Knowledge of fragrance regulations (IFRA), ASTM candle standards, or cosmetic safety.
A keen sense of smell and passion for scent design.
What We Offer
Opportunity to work with a creative, passionate team in the growing home fragrance industry.
Hands-on experience in product development from concept to launch.
Competitive salary and benefits package.
Professional development and mentorship in R&D and perfumery.
A collaborative, innovative, and sensory-rich work environment.