Optical Research Scientist

Optical Research Scientist

PPG IndustriesPittsburgh

As an Optical Research Scientist in the Photochromics Group at PPG Optical, a leading producer of optical grade monomers and coatings for ophthalmic lenses, you will engage in pioneering work at the intersection of optics, physics, and liquid crystal science to develop a groundbreaking Ophthalmic medical device.

With over 70 years of experience in engineering and producing optical monomers and coatings, PPG is uniquely positioned as a leader in the ophthalmic lens industry. This role focuses on exploring innovative applications of photochromic and liquid crystal technology and its optical properties, offering a unique opportunity for those interested in advancing this emerging field.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, validate, and develop strategies for liquid crystal coatings for the Ophthalmic medical device.
• Create optical simulation methods and models to identify the root causes of optical defects.
• Innovate designs in vision optics.
• Characterize the optical properties of photochromic and liquid crystal materials.
• Collaborate closely with process/metrology engineers to enhance optical performance and work with external partners.
• Communicate results clearly through presentations and written reports.
• Maintain a safe working environment and advocate for lab safety.
• Pursue intellectual property protection for new technologies.

Qualifications

• Currently holds, or is in the process of obtaining, a Ph.D. degree in optics, liquid crystal optics, physics, engineering, chemistry, materials science, or other related fields.
• Experience in designing and conducting laboratory work with liquid crystal devices is preferred.
• Required general knowledge and experience in optics, with specific expertise in one or more of the following areas: polarization optics, photoalignment, liquid crystal optics and devices, optical coatings, and vision science, or equivalent.
• Hands-on experience in building optical devices and setups preferred.
• Proficiency in using optical simulation software such as LCDMaster, MATLAB, Zemax, etc. This is not required
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills.
• Travel up to 10% as required.

About us:

Here at PPG we make it happen, and we seek candidates of the highest integrity and professionalism who share our values, with the commitment and drive to strive today to do better than yesterday – everyday.

PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD™

Through leadership in innovation, sustainability and color, PPG helps customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets to enhance more surfaces in more ways than does any other company. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com and follow @ PPG on Twitter.

The PPG Way

Every single day at PPG:

We partner with customers to create mutual value.

We are "One PPG" to the world.

We trust our people every day, in every way.

We make it happen.

We run it like we own it.

We do better today than yesterday – everyday.

PPG provides equal opportunity to all candidates and employees. We offer an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email [email protected].

PPG values your feedback on our recruiting process. We encourage you to visit Glassdoor.com and provide feedback on the process, so that we can do better today than yesterday.

Benefits will be discussed with you by your recruiter during the hiring process.

PPG pay ranges and benefits can vary by location which allows us to compensate employees competitively in different geographic markets. PPG considers several factors in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience and training, qualifications and education, licensure and certifications, and other organizational needs. Other incentives may apply. 
 
Our employee benefits programs are designed to support the health and well-being of our employees. Any insurance coverages and benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.