Scientist in Smell Psychophysics & Olfactometry

Job title:
Scientist in Smell Psychophysics & Olfactometry (80242)

Location:
Satigny, Geneva, Switzerland

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 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 and join our global Perception & Cognitive Neuroscience team.

• Design, implement, and oversee a broad range of olfactory psychophysical assessments from fundamental tests such as detection thresholds to the development and application of innovative perceptual paradigms that probe 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 through clear objectives and capability building to support high performance and future growth.

• Being part of an interdisciplinary team of industry-leading researchers.
• A diversity of exciting projects related to foods and fragranced products.
• The opportunity to work for a highly socially responsible company where sustainability is much more than a claim and is core to our strategy and purpose.
• Career development opportunities with great opportunities to learn and grow.
• To be part of a company shaping a strong legacy through breakthrough industrial innovations and technology.
• Equal Opportunity Employer.

• 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 and 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) will be 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.

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.

Interested in this position? Please apply online by uploading your resume via our career portal…