Research Scientist

About the role

The Research Scientist is responsible for building the scientific foundation that differentiates our gut health portfolio through innovative research and evidence-based product development. This role designs, manages, and executes preclinical and clinical research to generate robust scientific substantiation, support regulatory-compliant structure/function claims, and advance a pipeline of science-based initiatives. Working closely with Product Development, Regulatory, Marketing, Product Education, and Quality, this scientist translates complex microbiome science into compelling, consumer-relevant product benefits that are easily understood. Employee Value Proposition This is a unique opportunity to own the scientific direction of research initiatives-from identifying emerging ingredient opportunities to designing studies, generating evidence, and influencing product strategy. Backed by executive support, you'll have the autonomy to shape research programs, contribute to first-to-market innovations, and build the scientific credibility that differentiates our products and empowers our field. Key Performance Objectives Lead and complete 1-3 priority preclinical studies supporting upcoming product launches and patent opportunities. Strengthen scientific substantiation by developing differentiated, regulatory-compliant structure/function claims. Advance innovation by identifying and evaluating emerging gut health ingredients, technologies, and research opportunities. Partner with Marketing and Product Education to translate science into compelling product stories and field education. Support innovation and renovation initiatives that strengthen the company's long-term gut health portfolio. Performance Accountabilities Scientific Research & Innovation Design, manage, and execute preclinical and clinical research programs in partnership with internal teams and Contract Research Organizations (CROs). Critically evaluate emerging science, patents, and competitive technologies to identify innovation opportunities. Develop research strategies that support a 3-5 year gut health innovation pipeline. Scientific Substantiation Develop defensible scientific substantiation for structure/function claims through literature evaluation, research findings, and clinical evidence. Author scientific dossiers, white papers, technical summaries, and ingredient substantiation documents. Translate microbiome science into differentiated product positioning across digestive health, immune health, metabolic health, and the gut-brain axis. Cross-Functional Leadership Collaborate with Regulatory, Marketing, Product Development, Product Education, Quality, and Legal to ensure scientific accuracy and compliance. Develop educational content and scientific training that equips internal teams and the field with evidence-based product knowledge. Provide scientific leadership throughout product development and commercialization. External Scientific Engagement Build relationships with CROs, academic researchers, Scientific Advisory Boards, and industry partners. Attend scientific conferences and evaluate emerging research, ingredient technologies, and partnership opportunities. Support Quality with scientific evaluation of Serious Adverse Event reports when needed. Performance Qualifications Required PhD in Microbiology, Nutrition Science, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline. Minimum of 2 years of relevant industry experience or postdoctoral research. Experience designing, managing, analyzing, and interpreting preclinical and clinical research. Strong scientific writing, literature evaluation, and communication skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities while collaborating across cross-functional teams. Preferred Four or more years of relevant industry experience. Expertise in probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, fermentation-derived ingredients, or microbiome science. Experience in weight management and/or cardiometabolic health. Peer-reviewed publications and experience supporting product claim substantiation. About Plexus Founded in gut health. Experts in microbiome. Plexus Worldwide®, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a renowned direct-selling company recognized as a top employer. Over the past 18 years, Plexus has dedicated itself to promoting hope, health, and happiness through its scientifically backed, innovative dietary supplements, weight management products, and personal care products, sold primarily through Plexus Brand Ambassadors. As a six-time Best Places to Work awardee, Blue Zone-approved employer, and an AZ Most Admired Company, Plexus prides itself on its robust organizational culture and commitment to community support and philanthropy. Our team is driven by a shared mission to empower individuals to achieve their health and wellness goals while offering additional income through the sale of products. J

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Research Scientist - Gut Health & Clinical Research

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