Senior Scientist, Toxicology Support at Kenvue

May 19, 2026

What is your current job title and, in a few words, please tell us what it is that you do?

Catherine Rojas is currently a senior scientist who provides toxicology support within the Medical and Clinical Safety Sciences organization at Kenvue. She is responsible for conducting risk assessments for North American products within the Sun Care category, which includes popular brands like Neutrogena and Aveeno. She also provides safety guidance for internal stakeholders to facilitate the progress of newer innovations through commercialization. In addition, she delivers scientific communications to support the safety of the Kenvue portfolio.

What is the highest degree you have earned and what can you tell us about your academic path?

I obtained my Ph.D. in Toxicology from Rutgers University in 2025. I have always had a passion for science since I was a kid, but I did not realize I wanted to pursue a research-focused career until my senior year of high school. While I was an undergraduate pursuing my Biochemistry degree, I participated in a summer toxicology internship at Rutgers University, where I first learned about the field from my Ph.D. program director, Dr. Lauren Aleksunes. After completing the internship, I was encouraged to apply to the program and eventually completed my dissertation on organophosphate flame retardant toxicity in the laboratory of Dr. Troy A. Roepke.

Where do you work now and what is your company about?

I currently work at Kenvue, formerly known as Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products, which is based in Summit, NJ. Kenvue focuses on delivering high-quality consumer health products supported through data generated by our innovative scientists. The company has a diverse portfolio that emphasizes the power of everyday care and includes well-known brands such as Band-Aid and Listerine.

How did you first learn about the company?

Although I had used many Kenvue products growing up, I was not familiar with the company name until I became an SMDP mentee in 2024.

What do you like most about the company?

I love the company culture the most. Everyone I interacted with at the company (even before I started my role) was invested in my success and growth. Despite having busy schedules, people make time to meet with you, answer questions, and offer guidance. That level of support made my transition from academia to the consumer health industry much more seamless.

What skills make you successful in your role and why did you choose this role?

My time management, organizational, and leadership skills I developed during graduate school have carried over into my everyday work and have helped me succeed in this role. I chose this role because I have always wanted to bridge the gap between bench research and human health. My current off-the-bench role allows me to dive deeper into studies that have already been conducted or published so that I can further support the safety profile of everyday products.

How do you define success?

I would say you’ve achieved success if your younger self would be proud of the person you are today.

What's the most fulfilling aspect of your job?

The most fulfilling aspect of my job is being a keeper of human health. It will always be my responsibility as a toxicologist to put the consumer’s health at the forefront of my work. Telling others that I investigate potential risks in the products they use every day is something I am very proud of.

What advice do you have for students and job seekers?

My advice is to seek out mentors. I wouldn’t be in the place I am today without the mentors I have had throughout my life. It is important to have mentors who support you and challenge you to do better.

What book did you read last?

The last book I read was Reason for Hope: A Spiritual Journey by Jane Goodall.