Lubrizol Life Science innovation would not be possible without our brilliant scientists and researchers. This is the latest in a series of profiles of the men and women behind our products.

Scientist: Denise Rafferty

Title: Technology Manager for Applied Physics

Years with Lubrizol: 18

Location: Brecksville

Education: Ph.D., Polymer Science, Case Western Reserve University; Master’s in Chemistry, Cleveland State University

Years of experience: 28

Focus: Method development and physical property testing to understand the mechanisms that drive performance in beauty, personal care and healthcare.

Recent accomplishments: Developed a suite of in vitro methods to understand the impact of formulation variables on the performance of suncare products. Also developed test methods to predict the sensory characteristics of lipstick. The tests shorten development time and save money by lessening reliance on focus groups and in vivo testing.

Quote: “I like the variety in what we do. I love learning new things and unraveling the mysteries behind how things work.”

Meet the Minds: Denise Rafferty