Senior 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 Senior Principal Scientist supporting Research and Development, you will be trusted to work on Conducting exploratory research to produce new knowledge and potential products; conceives, organizes, promotes, and drives ideas and plans to increase chemistry's role in and contribution to the discovery and chemical approaches to meet exploratory objectives in product discovery. This role is located in Johns Creek, GA. In this role, a typical day will include:

• Applies 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 completes 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 complete 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+15 yrs; Assoc.+14 yrs; M.S.+7 yrs; PhD+6 yrs)
• The ability to fluently read, write, understand and communicate in English
• 7 Years of Relevant Experience

Preferred Qualifications :

• PhD w/ 12+ years of experience in the area of ophthalmic, medical device industry and specialty chemicals is highly preferred
• Experience in surfactant and coating chemistry are desired
• 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%
• Relocation assistance: No
• Sponsorship available: Yes