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Angela Eppler, PhD

Senior Principal Scientist

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)

Member since: 2000

Mid-Atlantic Chapter

What made you pursue a career in the cosmetics/personal care industry?

I loved chemistry in school. It was so exciting how different reactions and combinations could create something new. The word chemistry or chemical can be intimidating or scary for some individuals and I wanted to work in a career that made those words less scary, more familiar, consumer friendly, and ultimately benefits based. The cosmetic/ personal care industry is something that everyone can relate to. In some way, shape, or form most individuals have interacted with a personal care product which then begins the discussion of how the chemicals in that product and others like it are helping people each day to live better, fuller lives. That is the industry I wanted to be driving and the conversations I wanted to be leading.

What advice would you give your younger self who is just starting out in the industry? 
Network. Meet people. Lots of People. What you accomplish in the lab is important, but just as important are the connections you make. Introduce yourself to chemists, biologists, marketers, sales, publishers, manufacturers, etc. And don’t strive to reach the largest amount of contacts but rather put in the effort to form meaningful and lasting relationships. The Cosmetic Industry is a small world full of a diverse set of individuals and the SCC affords you the opportunity to interact with many of them.

What is the favorite part of your job?

What I love most about being a cosmetic chemist is the ability to blend my skills and expertise with my passion. I get to utilize my investigative and problem-solving abilities in combination with my creative and innovative style. And, it keeps me on my toes as no two days are the same; each day has its own unique challenges and opportunities for creative resolution. I truly feel like this career is an ideal blend of art and science.

What has been your most recent professional accomplishment?

My election to a 2nd term on the SCC National Board of Directors representing Area IV is my most recent professional accomplishment. However, the professional accomplishment I am most proud of is the success of those whose path I have influenced along the way. To be able to manage, mentor, and lead individuals to identify & reach the potential within themselves is one of the most rewarding experiences.

How has membership in the SCC been of value to you?

The Society of Cosmetic Chemists has been a good friend alongside whom I have grown into my career. Upon starting graduate school one of my first assignments was to sign up for the SCC and the next thing you know here we are today, still together, so many years later. The SCC has afforded me many an opportunity to learn, to develop, to educate, and to volunteer, but most of all to make connections.

What is a fun fact about yourself, outside of the SCC and your professional life?

Growing up in North Dakota the length and severity of our winters forced a decision of hiding indoors for 6 mos. or finding a way to love the cold. My choice? Figure Skating. I started skating in elementary school progressing to competitive figure skating through college. Figure 8’s, dance moves, freestyle jumps & spins, and precision routines filled my early mornings (5 am practices!). Along the way I taught toddlers and adults how to appropriately fall and get back up, elementary and junior high students’ programs for their annual Ice Show and coached a precision team of high school students to hockey game performances and competition.