Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is hosting the Natural & Biobased Cosmetic Ingredients Conference April 7–9, 2026, at the university's Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies (CBIS) in Troy, N.Y. The three-day event draws cosmetic scientists, biotechnologists, and product developers from both industry and academia to discuss emerging research and commercial developments in sustainable cosmetic ingredients. 

Sessions will cover a range of topics at the intersection of green chemistry and cosmetic science, including the development of water-soluble polymers, microbial surfactants, and ingredients derived from seaweed. Topics include the development of plant-derived ingredients in skincare formulations; case studies on successful biobased/biotechnologically produced product launches in the cosmetic industry; biotechnological routes for sustainable hair coloring; ethical sourcing and supply chain transparency; advancements in biotech for developing non-animal derived cosmetic ingredients; regulatory challenges and opportunities, and more. 

Presenters include representatives from RPI, Columbia University, UMASS Lowell, AHB Biotechnologies, L-Raphael, Almora Botanica, Outer Biosciences and other organizations. 

For more details or to register for the conference, see the event page. RPI students may attend the presentations at no cost. 

“We're thrilled to bring together such a distinguished group of researchers and industry scientists to explore what is really a transformative moment for cosmetic ingredients,” said Richard Gross, Ph.D., a professor of chemistry and chemical biology and organizer of the conference. “The convergence of biotechnology and consumer demand for sustainable products is opening up remarkable opportunities, and this conference is a chance to advance that conversation across the full bench-to-market pipeline."