Scientist Machine Learning for Ingredient Discovery - Princeton, NJ

Scientist Machine Learning for Ingredient Discovery

Location: Princeton, NJ or Long Island City, NY

We are seeking a skilled Data Scientist with deep expertise in developing and applying machine learning models, including LLMs and agents, as well as user-facing apps for small molecule design and pipeline prioritization.

The successful candidate will join the Ingredient Modeling team within dsm-firmenich's R&D Data Science unit and work with a talented team of data scientists, chemists, biologists as well as perfumers to transform our internal molecule discovery process, closely integrating AI with chemistry, biotech and the understanding of our senses of olfaction and taste. Our goal: deliver an integrated, state-of-the-art discovery engine for fragrance, taste and other business areas of dsm-firmenich.

This role offers the opportunity to work on projects that integrate computational chemistry with receptor biology and advanced data science methodologies – all while working in close collaboration with leading domain experts in the field of discovery chemistry, biotechnology, receptor biology, olfaction, and taste.

Key Responsibilities:

• Use data science and AI to drive a fast-paced ingredient discovery pipeline that generates maximum value for dsm-firmenich’s taste, texture and health segments.
• Develop and implement machine learning models to support dsm-firmenich’s new ingredient discovery process.
• Use Python and its most common libraries (e.g. NumPy, SciPy, Pandas, Matplotlib, Scikit-Learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras) to build and optimize machine learning models.
• Apply diverse neural network architectures and multi-objective optimization algorithms to solve complex ingredient design problems including exploration of chemical space. Deploy and manage machine learning workflows on Azure and AWS cloud infrastructure.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in machine learning, neural networks and cheminformatics and apply this knowledge to drive innovation within the team.
• You apply modern tools such as git, generative AI and agentic workflows, graph and relational data models, cloud-native computing and API endpoints to do your daily work.
• Team up with other data scientists, chemists, biologists and perfumers/flavorists to translate scientific requirements into scalable and user-friendly modeling tools and drive project success.

We Offer: 

• Opportunity to join a dynamic and thriving team applying ML and other modeling techniques to biology and chemistry.
• Highly motivated, professional and committed multicultural and interdisciplinary team.
• Opportunity to put your scientific skills into practice with innovations in health, nutrition and beauty.
• Grow and develop your skills through our in-house training courses.
• Being a part of company shaping a strong legacy heritage through industrial innovations and cutting-edge technology.
• A commitment to science-based innovations with 2000 scientists and 700 mln annual S&R investments.

You Bring:

• Ph.D. in Cheminformatics, Computational Chemistry, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence or Quantitative Finance / Economics.
• 2-5 years of additional academic or industrial work experience in cheminformatics and computational chemistry, ideally applied to ingredient- drug discovery or the sensory biology field, or alternatively other relevant areas
• Scientific backgrounds with experience in Machine Learning for Trading, Quantitative Investing, and Systematic Portfolio Management are also welcome
• Record of accomplishments demonstrating high drive and keen entrepreneurial innovation.
• Strong proficiency in Python and its data science libraries (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas, Matplotlib, Scikit-Learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras etc.).
• Strong proficiency in state-of-the art cheminformatics toolkits such as RDKit.
• Strong understanding of machine learning algorithms and techniques, miulti-objective optimization (such as mixed preference optimization) and experience with (graph) neural networks.
• Proficiency in responsible and efficient use of AI coding agents, good code management practices and experience working with CI/CD pipelines. Hands-on experience with Azure or AWS cloud services is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to convey complex concepts to non-experts.

The salary or hourly wage scale provided reflects the pay range dsm-firmenich expects to pay the successful candidate for the position. Individual pay offered will be based on the applicant’s job-related skills, experience, relevant education, or training, and primary work location. This position is also eligible for bonuses and benefits, which are not included in the pay scale provided. Salary $100,000-$140,000.

In addition to base salary, we also offer a comprehensive total rewards package, inclusive of annual incentive pay, a retirement savings plan, health care coverage, paid time off, recognition programs and a broad range of other benefits. All benefits and incentives are subject to eligibility requirements.

About dsm-firmenich

At dsm-firmenich, we don’t just meet expectations – we go beyond them.

Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life.

From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions – every single day. Whether it’s fragrance that helps you focus, alternative meat that’s better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health, and beauty for everyone, everywhere.

And while you’re making a difference, we’ll make sure you’re growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They’re essential to our future.

Because real progress only happens when we go beyond, together.

The application process

Interested in this position? Please apply online by uploading your resume in English.

Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement

At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you.

And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.

Agency statement

We’re managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If you’re applying as an individual, we’d love to hear from you. We’re not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role.