Dr. Karen Jenner Receives Prestigious Scientific Award at RIFM Annual Meeting

Dr. Karen Jenner Receives the 2026 Robert H. Bedoukian Excellence in Science Award

At the recent 60th Annual Meeting of the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM), an esteemed scientific community dedicated to the safety of fragrance materials, Dr. Karen Jenner was honored with the 2026 Robert H. Bedoukian Excellence in Science Award. This recognition was presented by Dr. Robert Sobel, CEO of Bedoukian Research, in memory of Dr. Robert Bedoukian, a figure renowned for fostering scientific curiosity and innovation in fragrance safety research.

Dr. Karen Jenner is a distinguished expert in ecotoxicology and environmental fate, boasting a comprehensive background in organic chemistry. Prior to her retirement from Givaudan in 2024, where she dedicated 17 years to advancing environmental safety science, Dr. Jenner held the role of discovery and innovation project manager at Quest International. She completed her PhD at the University of Kent, and her contributions to the industry are profound, having developed numerous fragrance ingredients that are still widely utilized today.

Her work has significantly enhanced the evaluation of fragrance materials, particularly complex mixtures and natural compounds that are often difficult to assess. Dr. Jenner has actively participated in various European Chemical Agency (ECHA) committees, contributing to discussions on persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) substances, as well as regulatory matters concerning microplastics. Her involvement also extends to collaboration with the European Centre for Ecotoxicology and Toxicology of Chemicals (ECETOC) and various Cefic research projects aimed at improving fragrance material safety.

Dr. Jenner has co-authored essential guidance on the assessment of difficult-to-test materials and biodegradation protocols. Her research publications cover a range of significant topics, including fish metabolism, fragrance ingredients' bioaccumulation potential, and the persistence and biodegradation of cyclic sesquiterpenes found in essential oils. Over the past two decades, she has played a pivotal role in RIFM's Environmental Task Force and the Environmental Core Team, helping to inform and develop standardized methodologies, such as the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) Environmental Standards and RIFM's environmental risk assessment framework.

The inscription of her accomplishments is a testament to her generosity and willingness to educate her colleagues. Dr. Aurelia Lapczynski, who nominated Dr. Jenner for this prestigious award, praised her humility and commitment to furthering knowledge within the scientific community. Dr. Sobel, during the award presentation, articulated that "Dr. Jenner's work reflects the scientific rigor, curiosity, and collaboration that this award was designed to honor. I am proud to present this award to a scientist whose impactful work has greatly advanced environmental safety standards."

The Robert H. Bedoukian Excellence in Science Award is conferred upon individuals whose research exemplifies creativity, scientific rigor, and significant contributions to fragrance science. Among past recipients are notable scientists such as G. Frank Gerberick (2025), Robert Safford (2024), Daniel Liebler (2023), and more.

Dr. Jenner's achievement is a milestone, reflecting the importance of dedication and innovative research in ensuring the safety and sustainability of fragrance materials, which are prevalent in daily life. Her ongoing legacy continues to serve as an inspiration for future generations in the field of fragrance safety and environmental consciousness.