Senior Scientist - Optical Physics

Corning•City of Corning, NY

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Join Corning’s Science and Technology Division as a Senior Scientist in Optical Physics and help shape the future of materials science and advanced technology. In this role, you’ll drive innovation across diverse markets—ranging from optical communications and advanced displays to life sciences and energy—by integrating expertise in optics, applied physics, modeling, and materials. You’ll collaborate with world-class scientists and engineers to deliver breakthrough solutions and accelerate the development of next-generation products and processes. Projects include cutting-edge applications in photonics, next-gen optical fibers, waveguides for AR and integrated optics, quantum technologies, metasurfaces, laser-processing, laser-material interactions, human perception, advanced optical surface treatments for displays, and the development of unique measurements for metrology. Your work will directly impact Corning’s most ambitious initiatives and help define new research and business directions. At Corning, we are relentless innovators. Our legacy of 175 years is built on pioneering discoveries in glass, ceramics, and optical physics—transforming industries and improving lives around the world. Today, we continue to lead through sustained investment in research and development, a unique blend of material and process innovation, and deep partnerships with customers to solve their toughest challenges. We thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where agility, creativity, and cross-disciplinary collaboration are essential. As a Senior Scientist in Optical Physics, you’ll have the freedom and support to explore bold ideas, rapidly build new capabilities, and be part of a team that turns visionary science into real-world impact. If you are passionate about solving complex problems, eager to work at the intersection of multiple disciplines, and motivated to make a difference, Corning offers you the opportunity to grow, contribute, and shape the future of technology.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Applied Physics, Optical Engineering, or a related discipline; or M.S. in related field with 3+ years of relevant industrial experience
Hands-on experience and working knowledge of optical systems, imaging hardware, and measurement instruments
Strong data analysis, technical writing, and presentation skills; proficiency with inter-office tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
Curiosity, patience, and desire to learn new technologies that push beyond your current skills
Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in high-performance, multi-disciplinary teams
Effective communication skills for technical and business audiences

Nice To Haves

Experience in optical materials design or materials used in photonic and optical applications
Experience in designing and analyzing optical systems using various modeling tools
Familiarity with connectivity technologies, optoelectronics, waveguides, display, or scattering optics
Skill in prototyping with various fabrication technologies
Background in product commercialization and technology transfer
Patent, publication, or industry benchmarking experience
Demonstrated ability to lead a focused project with a small team

Responsibilities

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and leverage optical modeling and optical experimental techniques to develop and support next-generation technologies for telecommunications, data centers, solar, and displays.
Work with technical leaders to define technical requirements, performance metrics, and validation protocols for optical solutions
Troubleshoot complex optical challenges, applying root-cause analysis and innovative solutions
Document technical work, and contribute to intellectual property
Stay current with emerging technologies, tools, and industry best practices