Associate Scientist, Microbiome & Hygiene - San Diego, CA

Associate Scientist, Microbiome & Hygiene – San Diego, CA

Location: San Diego, CA, US

We’re looking for a highly motivated Associate Scientist with expertise in microbiome research (human or environmental preferred) to join our Microbiome & Hygiene team. In this role, you’ll help advance our understanding of the microbiome and contribute to innovative solutions across health, hygiene, and beauty applications.

Your Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute to research projects focused on understanding microbiome structure and function relevant to human health, hygiene, and beauty applications


• Design and execute in vitro and laboratory-based microbiology experiments under the guidance of senior scientists


• Support development, optimization, and execution of microbiome assays, including microbial culture, cell-based assays, and molecular biology methods


• Generate, analyze, and summarize experimental data to support mechanistic understanding and project decisions


• Assist with documentation of experimental protocols, data, and internal reports


• Support general laboratory operations, including lab maintenance, inventory management, chemical safety documentation, and instrument upkeep

We Bring:

• Empowerment to make meaningful contributions while upholding ethical standards


• Recognition and appreciation for scientific rigor and collaboration


• Opportunities for learning, professional development, and career growth


• Collaboration with experts in health, nutrition, hygiene, and beauty


• A supportive environment that encourages curiosity, teamwork, and innovation

You Bring:

• Master’s or PhD degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Microbial Ecology, or a related life science field, with 1-3 years of relevant academic or industry experience in microbiology or microbiome research


• Hands-on laboratory experience with microbiological techniques such as microbial culture, aseptic techniques, and molecular biology methods (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, RT-qPCR)


• Experience with human microbiome samples and/or culture-based microbial assays is preferred


• Ability to follow experimental plans, document results accurately, and work within established protocols


• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills


• Ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt in a fast-paced research environment

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. Salary $100,000-$110,000.

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.

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 via our career portal by June 5, 2026.

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.