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 supporting the Development team you will be responsible or assist to generate research proposal, plan, direct and/or execute formulation and process development activities of new intra and extraocular device bio-materials, with particular focus on ocular health related new products. Examples of key areas of interest are in development of new formulation/polymer systems for the next generation products, such as synthetic polymeric biomaterials, hydrogels and natural biopolymers in Fort Worth, Texas.

In this role, a typical day will include:

• Demonstrate scientific excellence in ophthalmic biomaterial development, with focus on physical and chemically cross linked hydrogels, stimuli-responsive biomaterials, synthetic and biopolymers; In-depth knowledge in biopolymers, such as polysaccharides is desired.
• Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of structure and property relationship, possess a comprehensive knowledge of raw material properties, formulation, critical quality attributes that can impact the performance of the products.
• In-depth experience in polymer chemistry, material, synthesis and physical/chemical characterization various thermal, mechanical, spectroscopic and chromatographic methodology (such as DSC, TGA, DMA, Rheology, GPC, GC, LC etc) is required.
• Possess strong problem solving skills in formulation and material development; consistently demonstrate technical leadership by identifying and resolving complex technical issues.
• Have working experiences with applying statistical process design and analysis for formulation and process development. Design Six Sigma Black Belt is preferred.
• Good GMP, GLP and GDP practice is required.
• Lead formulation design, characterization , design testing methods and procedures for formulation screening, data analysis and trouble shooting; rigorously apply scientific methods to achieve strategic research targets.
• Design and conduct experiments by applying appropriate scientific tools such as DOE, Design for Six Sigma and/or DMAIC .
• Plan and hands-on conducting experiments to meet project deliverable and work in the lab individually with minimum direction.
• Effectively collaborate with team members to facilitate product development activities.
• Timely and effectively communicate of results and conclusions, writing up reports and presentations.
• Direct and assist junior scientists .
• Innovate, draft innovation disclosure, participate patent application.
• Participate pilot activities when needed.
• Compliance with all regulatory, quality and safety requirements, including good documentation practices.

Key Requirements/Minimum Qualifications:

• 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/skills Experience:

• Education preferably in colloid chemistry, organic and polymer chemistry, polymer science or pharmaceutical sciences with experiences in developing ophthalmic material and other biomaterials at Medical Device and/or Pharmaceutical industry; knowledge of rheology desired.
• Hands-on experience in developing and manufacturing ophthalmic product or related biomaterials, such as hydrogels, stimuli polymeric materials, controlled release systems.
• Fluency in English required with strong oral and written communication skills, excellent presentation skills.
• Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in GLP, GDP and GMP. Knowledge in FDA, EMA, IHC regulation and CMC guidance preferred.
• Data driven and an excellent team player.

Relocation assistance: Available

Sponsorship available: Not available

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 [email protected] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.