Principal Scientist - Ocular Health (Colloid Science & Chemical Engineering)

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 and we are looking for a Principal Scientist - Ocular Health (Colloid Science & Chemical Engineering) in Fort Worth, TX.

The Principal Scientist will spearhead research and development efforts focused on advancing formulations and processes for intraocular and extraocular biomaterials, emphasizing colloid chemistry, ocular delivery system and process development. This role is pivotal for advancing innovative solutions in ocular health care.

In this role, a typical day will include:

1. Conducting exploratory research to produce new knowledge and potential products; conceives, organizes, promotes, and executes ideas and plans to increase chemistry's role in and contribution to the discovery and chemical approaches to meet exploratory objectives in product discovery.
2. Developing research proposals to provide a technically and economically sound basis for developing and evaluating new or improved products, synthetic methods, processes, and analytical and physical testing techniques. Recommending utilization of the results or changes in the scope of work or termination of projects.
3. Serving as a hands-on Polymer Principal Scientist specializing in formulating and processing topical formulations across various dosage formats: polymer solutions, emulsions, suspensions, and physical gels, with biopolymers (e.g. polysaccharides), and biomaterials.
4. Demonstrating essential expertise in colloid sciences, physical chemistry, and the physical interactions between polymers and biological surfaces; extensive bench experiments in innovation of topical ophthalmic products, leveraging expertise in colloid chemistry, polymer chemistry, and biopolymers.
5. Independently conducting laboratory bench experiments to formulate, characterize, and process topical ophthalmic products. Essential experience in rheology, flow dynamics, mixing, and chemical engineering is required, with desirable expertise in scaling from laboratory to pilot and manufacturing scales.
6. Applying scientific and technical acumen to identify and propose effective solutions for intricate development challenges in processes and chemistry.
7. Leading literature and patent searches to support both short-term and long-term development of ocular health products, including eye drop solutions, lens care solutions, and other ophthalmic products. Summarize findings to present comprehensive research proposals and ideas to teams and executives.
8. Leading or contributing to the development and management of an external network of research partners and collaborators (CROs/CMOs), enhancing internal capabilities.
9. Providing technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to junior colleagues, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in colloid chemistry and polymer science.
10. Effectively communicating with internal stakeholders and external partners to drive project objectives and achieve strategic business goals.

Experience

1. PhD in colloid science, physical chemistry, chemical engineering, polymer engineering, or related field, with a minimum of 7 years of professional experience.
2. At least 5 years of hands-on experience in formulation and process development, preferably with experiences in dry eye solution formulation or ocular health product and contact lens care product (CLC) formulation development or similar.
3. Demonstrated track record in leading topical formulation and process development across laboratory and pilot scales and transferring to commercial production scale.
4. Proficiency in formulation and process design, incorporating Design of Experiments (DoE) and/or Quality by Design (QbD) principles to meet regulatory requirements.
5. Experience collaborating with and managing CROs, industrial partners, and academic institutions is advantageous.
6. Strong technical troubleshooting skills, along with exceptional oral and written communication abilities, including effective presentation skills.
7. Data-driven approach with a proven ability to excel in collaborative team environments.

What You'll Bring to Alcon:

1. 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)
2. The ability to fluently read, write, understand, and communicate in English.

How You Can Thrive at Alcon:

1. Join Alcon's mission to provide outstanding, innovative products and solutions to improve sight, improve lives, and grow your career!
2. Alcon provides robust benefits package including health, life, retirement, flexible time off, and much more!
3. Travel Requirements: 0-5%
4. Relocation assistance: yes
5. Sponsorship available: yes