Principal Scientist

At Alcon, we are driven by the meaningful work we do to help people see brilliantly. We innovate boldly, champion progress, and act with speed as the global leader in eye care. Here, you'll be recognized for your commitment and contributions and see your career like never before. Together, we go above and beyond to make an impact in the lives of our patients and customers.

We foster an inclusive culture and are looking for diverse, talented people to join Alcon. As a Principal Scientist is a mid-senior level technical role within our organization, dedicated to advancing the field of ophthalmic materials and enhancing the performance and comfort of contact lenses. This position involves rigorous scientific research, innovative formulation development, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to bring new contact lens technologies from concept to market. This role will be in Johns Creek, Georgia and a typical day will include:

• Utilizes polymer expertise to design and carry-out formulation experiments and characterization to come up with next generation biomaterials for ophthalmic applications. Supports team in the execution of project plans prepared in cooperation with project team leadership.
• Demonstrates expertise in both, materials technology and production process, to insure compatibility between material and process. Identifies and optimizes novel materials for their use in contact lens, saline, and lens care product formulations.
• Demonstrates an in-depth understanding of structure and property relationship in polymers, specifically the relationship between molecular architecture and morphology and bulk properties. Identifies and executes appropriate testing methodologies to evaluate potential new contact lenses, lens surfaces, package saline and lens care products.
• Documents experimental results details on all planned and completed experiments including raw materials, experimental plans and procedures, results, data analyses and conclusions in appropriate formats (laboratory notebook, memo and/or report) and communicate effectively to project teams. Files all new material concepts through invention disclosures and support patent filings as required to protect intellectual property.
• Develops an external network of research partners and collaborators to complement internal competencies in the above mentioned research areas. Actively monitors patent and scientific literature for significant technical developments relevant to CL and CLC products.
• Handles, uses, stores and disposes all lab used chemicals as outlined in MSDS, SOP and other company prescribed, state and federal guidelines. Also, complies with all company established Health, Safety and Environment operational requirements. Uses relevant statistical techniques and methods to plan and execute experiments and to analyze experimental data.

What You'll Bring to Alcon:

• Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent years of directly related experience (or high school +13 yrs; Assoc.+9 yrs; M.S.+2 yrs; PhD+0 yrs)
• The ability to fluently read, write, understand and communicate in English
• 5 Years of Relevant Experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD with experience in the area of ophthalmic or medical device industry is highly preferred
• Background in Polymer Chemistry, Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Material Science, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering
• Formulation experience with hydrogels, contact lenses, contact lens care, organic and aqueous polymer systems are desired

How You Can Thrive at Alcon:

• Join Alcon's mission to provide outstanding, innovative products and solutions to improve sight, improve lives, and grow your career!
• Alcon provides robust benefits package including health, life, retirement, flexible time off, and much more!
• Travel Requirements: 10-20%
• Relocation assistance: Yes
• Sponsorship available: Yes

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Alcon is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. Alcon takes pride in maintaining a diverse environment and our policies are not to discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Alcon is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to alcon.recruitment@alcon.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.