Research Scientist - X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy

Job Title: Research Scientist - X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Location: Piscataway, New Jersey, United States Travel Required: up to 10% of time | Hybrid | No Relocation Assistance | Job Number: 173391 As a Senior Research Scientist, you will serve as a central technical resource supporting the entire global Colgate‑Palmolive portfolio by developing robust, state‑of‑the‑art analytical platforms to characterize complex matrices. You will manage the advanced XPS Analysis laboratory and act as the technical arbiter of "Truth," ensuring every chemical claim made by Marketing is backed by statistically rigorous, publication‑quality data. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to lead surface analysis research programs, drive external scientific recognition, and conduct competitive product teardowns. Your primary objective is to turn complex analytical results into "Visual Science" that substantiates product efficacy, supports patent filings, and defends data integrity during legal challenges. Responsibilities Laboratory Management & Method Development: Manages the daily operations of the XPS Analysis laboratory, establishing novel analytical protocols for active ingredients, stabilizers, and sensory molecules using XPS and BET technologies. Efficacy & Surface Investigation: Utilizes surface analysis instrumentation to investigate product efficacy, active delivery, and modes of action by studying product effects on various surfaces from formulation through to packaging. Troubleshooting & Competitive Teardowns: Provides "Rapid Response" root‑cause analysis for stability failures or manufacturing deviations across categories, and leads competitive deformulation projects to reverse‑engineer rival product performance. Claim Substantiation & Legal Nexus: Partners cross‑functionally with Marketing to turn analytical data into clear visual evidence and acts as the primary technical lead for data integrity during legal challenges. IP Support & External Visibility: Provides critical characterization data required to prove novelty for new patent filings, while driving internal and external publications and conference presentations to showcase analytical leadership. Required Qualifications PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or Materials Science with 2+ years of advanced laboratory experience (or a Master’s degree with 5+ years of advanced laboratory experience). Direct hands‑on experience in the operation, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting of surface analysis instrumentation, specifically X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). Solid academic training paired with demonstrated creativity, strong problem‑solving abilities, and excellent oral and written communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Significant experience in the operation and maintenance of Physical Electronics instrumentation, with a strong preference for VersaProbe instruments. Technical knowledge of or direct working experience with alternative surface analytical techniques, particularly TOF‑SIMS. Prior professional or research experience involving consumer products or fast‑moving consumer goods (FMCG). Please note we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position. Compensation and Benefits Salary Range: $96,800.00 - $145,000.00 USD Pay is determined based on experience, qualifications, and location. Salaried employees may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, profit‑sharing, and long‑term incentives for Executive‑level roles. Benefits: Salaried employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid parental leave, disability coverage, and participation in the 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions subject to eligibility requirements. Additional benefits include a minimum of 15 vacation/PTO days (hourly employees receive a minimum of 120 hours) and 13 paid holidays (vacation days are prorated based on the employee's hire date within the calendar year). Paid sick leave is adjusted based on role and location in accordance with local laws. Detailed information regarding paid sick leave entitlements will be provided to employees upon hiring and may be subject to adjustments based on changes in legislation or company policies. Our Commitment to Inclusion Our journey begins with our people—developing strong talent with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to best serve our consumers around the world and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels a true sense of belonging. We are dedicated to ensuring that each individual can be their authentic self, is treated with respect, and is empowered by leadership to contribute meaningfully to our business. Equal Opportunity Employer Colgate is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, marital status, veteran status (United States positions), or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodation during the application process is available for persons with disabilities. 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