Scientist in Smell Psychophysics & Olfactometry / Scientistess in Smell Psychophysics & Olfactometry

Work Location

Satigny, Switzerland - Hybrid

About dsm-firmenich

As innovators in nutrition, health, and beauty, dsm-firmenich reinvents, manufactures, and combines vital nutrients, flavors, and fragrances for the world’s growing population to thrive. With our comprehensive range of solutions featuring natural and renewable ingredients and renowned science and technology capabilities, we work to create what is essential for life, desirable for consumers, and more sustainable for the planet. dsm-firmenich is a Swiss-Dutch company, listed on Euronext Amsterdam, with operations in almost 60 countries and revenues of more than €12 billion. With a diverse global team of nearly 30,000 employees, we bring progress to life™ every day, everywhere, for billions of people.

Diversity & Inclusion

At dsm-firmenich, being a force for good is not optional. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion are woven into our daily work, benefiting our people, customers, and communities while driving business value. We believe in equal access to opportunities, a culture of belonging, and celebrating authenticity.

Job Overview

We are seeking a Scientist with deep technical expertise in Olfactory Perception and Psychophysics. This role focuses on advancing our understanding of the perceptual, cognitive, and mechanistic processes that underlie all aspects of odor perception. The successful candidate will lead a small team and an innovative research program, collaborate with multidisciplinary R&D teams, and translate rigorous perceptual science into actionable insights for fragrance innovation. If you are passionate about olfactory science and human chemosensory perception, we encourage you to apply online using the form below.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and oversee a broad range of olfactory psychophysical assessments, from fundamental tests such as detection thresholds to innovative perceptual paradigms probing temporal dynamics, mixture interactions, odor quality perception, and other higher-order aspects of odor perception.
• Analyze and interpret perceptual and psychophysical data using advanced statistical and computational approaches.
• Present results and ideas to peers and business partners; produce high-quality lab reports, manuscripts, and patents.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate research findings into product development and innovation strategies.
• Contribute to the evolution of methodological standards and best practices in olfactory psychophysics within the organization.
• Lead and develop the team by establishing clear objectives and building capabilities to support high performance and future growth.

You Bring

• Ph.D. (or equivalent experience) in Psychology or a related field that includes psychophysics.
• 5-10 years of research experience in olfactory perception.
• Experience in an industrial setting with a focus on creating business value from science.
• Proficiency in behavioral and psychophysical research methods (e.g., threshold measurement, signal detection theory, adaptive methods) and advanced statistical analysis.
• Proficiency in a programming or scripting language (e.g., R, Python, Matlab) is a plus.
• Proven experience leading and optimizing olfactometry platforms, including system validation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of stimulus delivery performance.
• Fluency in English.
• Excellent communication and organization skills.
• Track record of people management and leadership skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

We Bring

• Being part of an interdisciplinary team of industry-leading researchers.
• A variety of exciting projects related to food and fragranced products.
• The opportunity to work for a highly socially responsible company where sustainability is more than just a claim and is integral to our strategy and purpose.
• Career development opportunities with excellent prospects for learning and growth.
• The chance to be part of a company shaping a strong legacy through breakthrough industrial innovations and technology.

Equal Opportunity Employer

dsm-firmenich is fully dedicated to inclusion because when people feel engaged and empowered, their creativity and innovation drive unprecedented progress. We aim to build a workplace with equal opportunities where everyone can thrive. We do not discriminate; there’s a place for everyone at dsm-firmenich.

As a committed equal opportunity employer, we ensure our recruitment practices are inclusive and fair. We encourage a diverse workforce representative of the communities in which we work by using inclusive language, diverse interview panels, and diversified sourcing strategies. Selection is based on qualifications, competency, experience, performance history, and fit with the team to advance fair and equitable opportunities.

Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, backgrounds, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

We are committed to providing reasonable support for disabled applicants in our recruiting process. Should you need assistance and feel comfortable sharing this, please let us know.