Laboratory Technician, Perception & Cognitive Neuroscience - Princeton, NJ

Laboratory Technician, Perception & Cognitive Neuroscience

Location: Princeton, NJ

Are you a meticulous, responsible, and intellectually curious individual with a strong interest in the science of smell and taste? Would you like to grow as a laboratory professional and researcher while contributing to cutting-edge research in olfactory perception and sensory science? If so, we encourage you to apply for the role of Laboratory Technician at dsm-firmenich.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute and contribute to the design of behavioral and sensory studies addressing both applied and fundamental questions in olfactory and flavor perception
• Prepare samples and run sensory evaluations with precision, ensuring meticulous adherence to protocols and instructions
• Recruit, screen, and manage sensory panelists using digital platforms and structured processes
• Operate and maintain specialized equipment (e.g., olfactometers & sample preparation systems)
• Identify problems, analyze possible causes, and suggest improvements in methods, techniques, and equipment
• Maintain organized laboratory operations, documentation, and inventory
• Assist with data organization, analysis, visualization, and reporting
  
  

We Offer

• A collaborative, international, and scientifically curious team of sensory scientists, psychologists, and research professionals
• Opportunities to contribute to cross-functional research addressing fundamental questions in olfaction and flavor perception
• Exposure to both foundational science and real-world applications in the flavor & fragrance industry
• A workplace that encourages learning, curiosity, and scientific growth, with a rich history of bold scientific innovation and passionate flavor and fragrance creation
• A culture that prioritizes safety, well-being, and inclusion
• Flexibility, accountability, and opportunities for career development
• Competitive compensation, benefits, and long-term growth opportunities
  
  

You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Psychology, Neuroscience, or a related field, with at least 1 year of relevant lab experience preferred
• Exposure to experimental design, behavioral research, or sensory testing
• Comfort recruiting and engaging study participants, with the ability to provide clear instructions and ensure a positive, professional experience
• Scientific curiosity, with interest in olfaction, perception, neuroscience and/or sensory science—and a desire to deepen this knowledge through literature and hands-on work
• Ability to work collaboratively within a technical team by coordinating tasks, balancing competing priorities, sharing information effectively, and contributing to a cooperative and efficient workflow
• Accountability and ownership, including the ability to learn from mistakes and continuously improve
• Experience with data analysis (e.g., R, Python, or similar tools) preferred
  
  

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. The hourly rate for this position is $26.00-$35.00 per hour.

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 by July 3, 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.