The UK Society of Cosmetic Scientists (SCS) has opened registration for its annual conference in Liverpool on 1-2 July.
The conference will focus on the high-quality cosmetic science being carried out in research groups right across the UK and Ireland, both in industry and in our universities.
The scientific programme will cover five key topics and has been carefully complied by the SCS: Trends in Formulation Science; Skin Science & Technologies; Hair Products & Appliances; Sensory Benefits & Testing; and Breakthrough Claims Testing Methods.
This year there will be many additional features to the conference, including an expert panel debate on driving innovation in the cosmetics industry; a pre-conference tour of the Materials Innovation Factory at the University of Liverpool; and a students’ poster competition and drinks reception.
The event will take place at the impressive Spine Building, home to the Royal College of Physicians, ideally located close to the University of Liverpool.
The university is widely recognised for its strengths in materials science and chemistry, and plays a key role in advancing cosmetic science, supported by partnerships with global companies such as Unilever through the nearby Materials Innovation Factory.
SCS members - and members of other partner societies affiliated with the International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists (IFSCC) – will benefit from a discounted delegate rate, and all attendees can benefit from an early bird special rate if they book by Friday 29 May.
The full delegate fee includes full access to the two day conference and all networking events; morning and afternoon refreshments; delegate lunch; and the drinks reception on the evening of Wednesday 1 July.
For more information, visit www.scsannualconference.com.
In a related development, the SCS has launched an apprenticeship programme designed to strengthen talent pipelines across the UK cosmetics industry.
Co-developed by Tiro, the UK’s leading science and technology apprenticeship provider, the Level 3 Cosmetic Technician Apprenticeship is designed for laboratory professionals in cosmetic and personal care businesses.
Mapped to the nationally recognised Laboratory Technician Standard, the programme blends Tiro’s scientific training with SCS-authored modules, giving apprentices practical, industry-specific skills.
Apprentices are employed in relevant roles, benefiting from hands-on learning, three hours of protected study time each week, and attractive salaries (£18,000–£21,000).
Employers can access up to 95% government funding or 100% via the Apprenticeship Levy, while Tiro handles recruitment, screening, and placement of candidates.
The programme supports both new and existing staff, helping businesses grow talent, enhance technical capability, and strengthen workforce motivation.
For more information on the Level 3 Cosmetic Technician Apprenticeship, visit Level 3 Cosmetic Technician or contact Hayley.Hannaford@tiro.co.uk.
