75 Things a Formulation Scientist Does

"What does a formulation scientist do every day?"

This was a question I received in an email from someone who was doing some research about different chemist careers. And if this person wanted to know about it, it makes sense that some of you might be wondering the same thing. So, here it is, 75 things that a formulation scientist or cosmetic chemist might do on any given work day, conveniently presented in four categories.

Cosmetic product development

Create formulas Gather raw materials Get equipment for making batches Make batches Restock lab supplies Keep notes in notebook Write experimental results in notebook Clean glassware and lab Research formulation topics Generate new product ideas Create prototypes Create dye solutions for color matching Make samples for marketing Supervise / make batches for home use tests Supervise first production batches Solve stability problems Generate test ideas to substantiate claims Figure out ways to make formulas less expensive Attend focus groups Participate in brainstorming meetings Review product label copy Assist in writing product concepts Present new technologies to non-scientists

Cosmetic product testing

Take pH readings Take viscosity readings Fill and label glass and plastic bottles Wash & comb hair tresses Color matching Bleach and color hair tresses Conduct foam tests Run stability tests Conduct skin moisturization tests Run project specific, customized tests Try formula prototypes View samples under a microscope Observe salon tests Conduct odor tests Participate in product panel testing Get samples for testing Evaluate competitive products

Personal Training

Read trade journals Read Chemists Corner and other useful blogs in your RSS reader Attend meetings with suppliers Go to SCC meetings Go to industry trade shows Take continuing education courses Attend conferences Review latest patents Listen to podcasts like the Chemists Corner podcast Read industry text books Take online training courses Pursue an advanced degree in cosmetic science

Business stuff

Respond to emails Create presentations Attend corporate meetings Attend project planning meetings Respond to phone calls Do desk side interviews with beauty editors Conduct training sessions for non-scientists Write business travel reports Fill out expense reports Write monthly reports Go to office celebrations Engage in “water-cooler” chat with co-workers Write memos Sign and review contracts Give instruction to people who report to you Meet with your boss to update them on your progress Interview candidates Entertain kids during Bring Your Kid to Work week Keep track of project progress Engage in debates with regulatory & legal departments Write patent applications Write employee reviews Whew! My brain is fried and I might be able to go on, but I think I covered practically everything I did as a cosmetic chemist. Is there anything we missed? Leave a comment below