Principal Formulation Scientist, Ocular Health

Alcon; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Ocular Health Principal Formulation Scientist to join their dynamic R&D team. This pivotal role focuses on advancing innovative ophthalmic materials and formulations, driving the development of next-generation products like artificial tears and antimicrobial systems. The ideal candidate will lead and collaborate on projects, conduct exploratory research, and mentor junior scientists. Join a mission-driven team that values innovation and offers a robust benefits package while making a significant impact on patients' lives.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Life Insurance

Retirement Plan

Flexible Time Off

Relocation Assistance

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Polymer Science or related field with 8+ years of experience.
• Expertise in developing ophthalmic formulations and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation and optimization of ophthalmic products.
• Conduct research on material interactions and develop scalable processes.

Skills

Ophthalmic Formulations Development

Project Management

Analytical Techniques

Problem-Solving

Communication Skills

Education

Ph.D. in Polymer Science or related field

Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent Experience

Tools

Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)

Rheology

Job description

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. We are seeking a dedicated and innovative Ocular Health Principal Formulation Scientist to join our dynamic R&D team in Fort Worth, TX.

This pivotal role involves advancing cutting-edge ophthalmic materials and formulations, with a focus on both extraocular and intraocular ocular health material. The ideal candidate will either lead or collaborate on projects that drive the development of next-generation ophthalmic products, such as artificial tears, contact lens care solutions, and antimicrobial systems.

This person conducts 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. Develops 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. Recommends utilization of the results or changes in the scope of work or termination of projects.

In this role, a typical day will include:

• Lead in designing, formulating, and optimizing ophthalmic products, including polymer solutions, emulsions, and antimicrobial materials.

• Drive preformulation studies to evaluate physicochemical properties, solubility, stability, and other critical attributes to guide and inform formulation design for ophthalmic applications.

• Conduct advanced research on material interactions, surface chemistry, preservatives, and antimicrobial agents to improve product efficacy and compatibility with biological surfaces, including ocular tissues and contact lens materials.

• Design, develop and implement formulation screening tools to efficiently identify and optimize high-performing candidates, leveraging analytical techniques and advanced characterization methods, such as rheology, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and surface property evaluation, material dissolution assessment, to ensure formulation efficacy, performance, and stability.

• Develop scalable processes for innovative ophthalmic formulations that enhance drug delivery, stability, and patient comfort, meeting both regulatory and clinical standards.

• Lead and manage collaborative efforts with internal cross-functional teams and external partners, such as contract research organizations (CROs) and manufacturing organizations (CMOs), to accelerate product development timelines.

• Monitor emerging technologies, scientific literature, and patent landscapes to identify opportunities for innovation in ophthalmic materials and formulations.

• Prepare technical documentation, data analyses, and presentations to support regulatory submissions and ensure alignment with FDA and international regulatory guidelines.

• Mentor and provide technical leadership to junior scientists and research associates, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the R&D team.

Experience

• A Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Material Science, Chemistry, Biomaterials, or a related field, with a strong foundation in colloid science, physical chemistry, material interaction with biological systems.

• At least 8 years of experience in developing ophthalmic formulations, with demonstrated expertise in polymers, emulsions, biopolymers, and antimicrobial systems.

• Extensive knowledge of preservatives, antimicrobial agents development.

• Proven ability to navigate and comply with regulatory requirements, including FDA and international guidelines, for ophthalmic products.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills, with experience managing complex R&D projects and leading cross-functional teams.

• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.

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

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: 0-5%

• Relocation assistance: Yes

• Sponsorship available: No

Alcon Careers

See your impact at alcon.com/careers