Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Software
Generic

Douglas T. Zuber

Associate Principal Scientist
Flower Mound,TX

Summary

Personal Care Development Expert with 25+ years of experience in formulation, product development, scale-up, and commercialization of skincare, sun care, and color cosmetics. Proven track record in R&D leadership, cross-functional team management, and regulatory compliance. Skilled in ingredient optimization, patent analysis, and process efficiency. Recognized for innovative problem-solving, reducing costs, and accelerating time-to-market. Adept at creating safe, effective, and consumer-focused products in global markets.

Overview

25
25
years of professional experience

Work History

Associate Principal Scientist

Mary Kay
Lewisville, TX
01.2017 - Current
  • Lead R&D formulation and commercialization of facial care, sun care, and color cosmetic products for global markets.
  • Managed and mentored chemists and University of Texas – Austin pharmacy interns.
  • Collaborated with international teams, including Mary Kay China, to tailor formulations to regional consumer needs.
  • Conducted patent analysis, identifying opportunities for new intellectual property to strengthen product pipeline.
  • Served on the Upstream Innovation Team, evaluating emerging technologies to drive competitive advantage.
  • Developed in vitro/in vivo testing protocols for sunscreen efficacy, ensuring regulatory compliance in evolving global standards.
  • Designed benchtop test methods to streamline raw material evaluation and optimize formulations.
  • Executed technology transfer protocols to contract manufacturers, supporting scale-up and pilot batches.
  • Led cross-functional teams to drive strategic initiatives and improve operational efficiency.
  • Developed and implemented training programs enhancing team performance and product knowledge.
  • Analyzed market trends to inform product development and marketing strategies, increasing brand alignment.
  • Guided the implementation of digital tools, streamlining processes and improving data accuracy.
  • Mentored junior associates, promoting professional growth and knowledge sharing within the organization.
  • Evaluated operational procedures, identifying areas for improvement to enhance overall effectiveness and productivity.

Research Scientist

Minerals Technologies
Hoffman Estates, IL
01.2011 - 01.2017
  • Developed anti-aging, acne, sensitive skin, whitening, sunscreens, cleansers, AP/DEOs, BB/CC creams, and color cosmetics.
  • Led a team of 3 chemists across multiple projects from prototype to launch.
  • Partnered with sales/marketing to commercialize 30+ new products through stage-gate development.
  • Innovated novel acne treatment platforms and advanced polymer delivery systems for actives.
  • Implemented aluminum-free AP solutions using natural polymers and micro-powders.
  • Conducted Franz Cell Diffusion studies and supported clinical claim substantiation for moisturization and actives.
  • Optimized formulations for regulatory compliance, removing parabens, DEA, and petroleum-based ingredients.
  • Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.

Senior Research Chemist

Vee Pak, Inc.
Hodgkins, IL
01.2001 - 01.2011
  • Formulated 200+ personal care and cosmetic products for leading brands including Johnson & Johnson, L’Oreal, Colgate, Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works, Coty, StriVectin, and Australian Gold.
  • Managed 2 lab technicians and oversaw projects from concept to launch.
  • Specialized in indoor tanning products, skincare, hair care, sunscreens, body care, and AP/DEOs.
  • Delivered prototype presentations to clients, supporting innovation and commercialization strategies.
  • Led process validation, stability studies, pilot, and scale-up batches for high-volume launches.

Education

Master of Business Administration (MBA) - undefined

West Texas A&M University
12.2025

Bachelor of Science - Chemistry

University of Illinois
Chicago, IL
05.1993

Skills

  • Product Development
  • Formulation
  • In vitro Testing
  • Solar Simulator
  • Hansen Solubility
  • X-Rite Color Technology
  • Team Leadership
  • Mentoring
  • Ingredient Optimization
  • Troubleshooting
  • Efficacy Testing
  • Cost-Effectiveness
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Lean Practices
  • Expense Reduction
  • Patent Writing
  • Claims Substantiation
  • Process Development

Timeline

Associate Principal Scientist

Mary Kay
01.2017 - Current

Research Scientist

Minerals Technologies
01.2011 - 01.2017

Senior Research Chemist

Vee Pak, Inc.
01.2001 - 01.2011

Master of Business Administration (MBA) - undefined

West Texas A&M University

Bachelor of Science - Chemistry

University of Illinois

Software

Tableau

X-Rite Color Technology

AI Platforms

Douglas T. ZuberAssociate Principal Scientist