Clarins Research Microbiology Intern

Pontoise Île-de-France France

Employment
Internship
Seniority
Intern
Posted
Oct 22, 2026

About Clarins

Founded in Paris in 1954 by Jacques Courtin-Clarins, Clarins is a family-owned beauty house renowned for its plant-inspired skincare, makeup and spa expertise. Combining scientific research with a close understanding of customers’ needs, the brand has built an international presence while preserving its French heritage. As an employer, Clarins brings together specialists across research, product development, manufacturing, retail and corporate functions, united by a commitment to quality and service. Its emphasis on responsible beauty, innovation and long-term stewardship offers a distinctive professional environment for those seeking to contribute to an established beauty house with an entrepreneurial spirit.

Clarins is seeking a Research Microbiology Intern for a six-month placement starting in February or March 2027, based in Pontoise. Within the research and development microbiology laboratory, the intern will assess antimicrobial robustness under cosmetic manufacturing constraints, conduct efficacy and formulation trials, and update technical data supporting formula preservation.

Role & Responsibilities

  • Inventory the information available for each antimicrobial.
  • Develop the experimental plan and Gantt chart for efficacy verification trials.
  • Conduct solubility and implementation trials for antimicrobials.
  • Formulate antimicrobials in simplified formulas.
  • Conduct microbiological efficacy trials.
  • Update data in the database.
  • Update and validate technical data essential to formula preservation.

Qualifications

  • Curiosity and initiative, with a willingness to explore new approaches.
  • Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills, including the ability to interpret data and results and formulate recommendations.
  • Scientific rigor in methodology, protocol monitoring and documentation.
  • Adaptability and flexibility in a fast-changing environment with shifting priorities.
  • A solution-oriented, pragmatic approach focused on implementation and feasibility.
  • Preparing a Bac+5-level degree in chemistry, cosmetic formulation, materials science or a related field.
  • Knowledge of scientific concepts relating to colloids and polymers, and characterization of their properties.
  • Initial experience in instrumental characterization or technical formulation.
  • Good knowledge of Excel or other data-processing tools.
  • Good command of basic statistical methods; knowledge of advanced methods such as regression and design of experiments, and statistical tools, is an advantage.
  • Proficiency in literature research, scientific report writing and data synthesis.
  • English at B2 level.

Skills

Excel Data-processing tools Statistical methods Regression Design of experiments Statistical tools

Experience

Initial experience in instrumental characterization or technical formulation.

Education

Preparing a Bac+5-level degree in chemistry, cosmetic formulation, materials science or a related field.

Workplace

This position is based in Pontoise, Île-de-France, France, within easy reach of Paris.

The setting Île-de-France

Explore jobs in Île-de-France or in France.

Benefits

Transport costs covered at 65%; CSE benefits; complimentary meals at the company restaurant; internship gratification of up to €1,650 depending on degree level; unlimited access to the Digital Learning platform; support from committed teams; a student community; and potential opportunities after the internship.

Culture

As a family-owned French beauty group, Clarins combines an entrepreneurial spirit with a culture rooted in botanical expertise, scientific innovation and close attention to customers. Its workplace values collaboration, the transmission of know-how and a shared commitment to responsible beauty, connecting professional excellence with care for people and nature.

About Cerulean

Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.

Clarins

Clarins Research Microbiology Intern

Pontoise, France

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