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Getting a job with a chemistry degree (and not cosmetic science deg.)
Hi everyone,
I am a recent graduate from one of the top university in Canada with a MSc degree in organic synthesis, on top of a BSc in chemistry as well. As I was nearing towards the end of my degree, I started to realize that I would enjoy working as a cosmetic chemistry in the future, rather than working in the pharmaceutical industry (which most people with an organic chemistry specialization usually end up). Growing up, I always had a passion for cosmetics, and I believe that was why I pursued chemistry early on.The problem is, where I’m looking for jobs (Toronto seems to be the ‘hub’ for cosmetic companies in Canada), most position require people with 2-5 years of experience in the cosmetic industry. I have some industrial experience doing synthesis and formulation work, but not in cosmetics. How do I even ‘set my foot into the door’ into the cosmetic industry so that I could eventually do formulation or product development work? I would not mind QA/QC work either, but I would much prefer doing formulations (even then they are looking for intermed/advanced QA techs). How do I even convince people that I know a thing or two about cosmetics, after receiving an education purely on chemistry?At this point, I am not sure if I would want to get another degree in cosmetic science just yet.Thank you for your help and I look forward to the discussion! -
2 Replies
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I think your best bet would be to look at jobs at the raw material supplier companies of the cosmetic industry. You can find those companies by looking at a list of industry suppliers like this.
Also, be sure to get involved with the Ontario SCC. They hold a number of meetings during the year and the people that go to those meetings will be the ones who would be aware of available jobs.I don’t think you need to get a degree in cosmetic science at the moment. You could learn most of what you would need to know through a class like the SCC Beginning Cosmetic Chemistry course or even our online cosmetic science course.Good luck! -
Thank you for your helpful tips!
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