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.

The Principal Scientist (Polymer Chemistry / Colloid Chemistry)- Ocular Health Formulations, Materials & Processes position will be responsible for developing research plan, including project goals, resource requirements, timeline, and for the plan by hands-on executing formulations and process development for ocular health-related new products. Key areas of interest include exploring new chemical entities or polymer/biopolymer systems for the next generation of ocular lubricants, as well as formulation development for polymer solutions, emulsion and suspension. The role requires hands-on benchwork, focusing on research and development in formulation sciences to support new product development initiatives.

Accountabilities:

• Serve as a hands-on Polymer Principal Scientist specializing in polymer solutions, emulsion, and suspension, with expertise in synthetic polymers, biopolymers (e.g., polysaccharides) and biomaterials.

• Demonstrate expertise in chemical structures design to achieve targeted properties, possessing comprehensive knowledge of chemical structures, polymer synthesis,structure-properties relationship and other critical quality attributes impacting product performance.

• Conduct laboratory bench experiments, with or without additional support, design, formulate and characterize topical ophthalmic products. Previous experience in colloid chemistry, polymer chemistry, and biopolymers a plus. Experience in rheology engineering is essential.

• Apply scientific/technical expertise to identify and provide viable solutions for complex development issues in chemistry and processes.

• Lead literature and patent searches for short-term and long-term development of ocular health products, such as eye drop solutions, lens care solutions, and ophthalmic products. Summarize patent and literature findings and present ideas and research proposals to teams and executives.

• Lead/assist in developing and managing an external network of research partners and collaborators (CROs/CMOs) to complement internal competencies. Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to junior team members, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in colloid chemistry and polymer science.

• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders and external partners to advance project objectives and achieve business goals.

• PhD 5-year experience in polymer chemistry, polymer sciences, colloid chemistry, biopolymers, biomaterials or similar, knowledge of rheology is required

• Minimum 3 years of relevant professional experience of material and formulation development, in medical device and/or pharmaceutical industry

• Proven track record and hands-on experience in polymer chemistry structure design and formulation development is required

• Experiences in collaborating and managing CROs, industrial partners and academic institution is desired

• Strong in technical troubleshooting; oral and written communication skills, excellent presentation skills

• Basic understanding of formulation and process design that implementing DoE and/or QbD principles satisfying regulatory requirements is desired

• Data driven and an excellent team player

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

• Work hours: M-F, standard

• Travel Requirements: 0-5%

• Relocation assistance: yes

• Sponsorship available: yes

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If you are currently an active employee/contingent worker at Alcon, please click the appropriate link below to apply on the Internal Career site.

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.