Formulation Scientist Review

Split between 3 teams across the Wash & Care department.
Formulating shampoos and conditioners in the lab, then organising various testing with necessary third parties and internal departments. This includes technical and consumer testing. Analysing results and making conclusions to progress work and highlight lead options to take forward.
Also doing some competitor research for different markets and testing on the relevant products.
Day to day involved some time in the lab, formulating and packaging up to send for certain tests. The rest of the time spent at the desk, analysing test results and doing the admin for sending samples for testing. Then feeding back in group meetings.

I was given responsibility to complete my formulations alone in the lab and send for the necessary testing. I was trusted to complete my work in a way I thought was fit to get the outcomes required, with regular catch-ups with the team and managers to update on my progress.

Improved organisation and time-management skills with managing the 3 different workstreams and keeping track of all the different tests and their time points.
Improved lab skills and formulating knowledge - including use of rheology machines and microscopes.
Improved communication through liaising with different teams as well as feeding back to my team about plans and progression of the project.

I received lots of support during my placement from my line-manager and team members. There was also someone around happy to help with any queries I had.
There was generally a lot of guidance given about what was expected of me and how it could be done.
There was a lot of support when it comes to training and learning about the required processes.

The company culture was a very friendly environment with people always being approachable and happy to help whenever I needed. I was encouraged to ask any questions if I was ever in doubt.
There was always people present in the office who could give me advice in person if needed.

I have really enjoyed my years placement at Unilever. I have gained a lot of valuable experience working in industry, experiencing being in such a big company has helped me understand how the different areas business works and the importance of each. I have gained lots of technical skills as well as improved soft skills needed in the workplace.

Yes