Summer 2026 Internship: Perception and Cognitive NeuroScience

Location: Princeton, NJ US

If you’re looking to grow your network and gain new skills within a global company, an internship with dsm-firmenich could be the program for you. Our summer internships provide students opportunities to work on real business projects and gain invaluable professional experience. As an intern, you’ll have exposure to many different areas of a global flavors, fragrances, and ingredients organization that works with some of the biggest brands in the world, along with opportunities to network with your peers and leadership. From engaging events to mentoring opportunities and valuable resume-building experiences, we’re committed to preparing you for a fulfilling and enduring career, both at dsm-firmenich and beyond. We are currently looking for a Perception and Cognitive NeuroScience Intern at our Princeton, NJ office.

The 2026 dsm-firmenich Summer Internship Program will run from June 1, 2026 to August 14, 2026.

Working Hours: Monday – Friday, 37.5 hours per week

Your key responsibilities

• Accurately prepare samples of materials for sensory studies
• Run sensory panels by following instructions of senior team members
• Maintain a well-organized lab and inventory
• Maintain and operate olfactometers
• Assist with simple data analyses if needed
• Assist with software programming of sensory tests

We bring

• Build Your Future Skills: Gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills that prepare you for a successful career.
• Expand Your Network: Connect with professionals and peers in a company where sustainability drives every decision and action.
• Thrive in an Inclusive Culture: Join a community that values and respects every individual—regardless of background, beliefs, or identity.
• Grow Through Curiosity: Work in an environment that encourages open-mindedness, learning, and collaboration to create a better future together.

You Bring

• Junior or Senior pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science - Sensory, Chemistry, Psychology, or related field 
• General knowledge of sensory science and/or neurobiology of sensation
• Previous lab experience desirable
• Basic computer knowledge and high comfort level with learning new software
• Legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
• Live in or around the Princeton area OR have reliable transportation to the office

The hourly rate for this position is $23.00 - $26.00 per hour.  Compensation will be dependent on factors that include location, education, training, specific skills, and years of experience.

About dsm-firmenich:

At dsm-firmenich, we don’t just meet expectations – we go beyond them.

Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life.

From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions – every single day. Whether it’s fragrance that helps you focus, alternative meat that’s better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health, and beauty for everyone, everywhere.

And while you’re making a difference, we’ll make sure you’re growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They’re essential to our future.

Because real progress only happens when we go beyond, together.

Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement:

At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you.

And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.

Agency statement:

We’re managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If you’re applying as an individual, we’d love to hear from you. We’re not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role.