Optical engineer turns his fascination into a career
Anant Mathur of Rochester always has been fascinated by the anatomy and physiology of the eye. After graduating from the University of Rochester with two degrees — including a master’s degree in optics — he chose to stay in the area, rather than accept a job offer in Michigan.
The most rewarding thing about Mathur’s job is seeing his product’s life cycle — getting feedback from eye surgeons to finding out how his contact lenses have opened a whole new world for the patients who use them.
What do you do?
I am an optical engineer in the Optical Design and Metrology Department at Bausch and Lomb. I support the design of contact lenses and intraocular lenses (lenses that are implanted in eyes during cataract surgery) and develop and implement the methods of testing these lenses to assure they adhere to our design specifications and FDA regulations.
What kinds of challenges does your industry face?
Bausch and Lomb is in the healthcare industry. One of the biggest hurdles we face — and one of our responsibilities — is to the respond to the changing demands of the industry and be flexible.
What’s been your biggest career hurdle?
One of the things that I have tried to make sure to do is to establish myself as a dependable and credible resource early in my career. It is always difficult to dig oneself out of a bad reputation.
What advice have you gotten in the past that has helped guide your career?
To stand up for myself and my input. In my first job, I was the youngest engineer in the department. My manager at the time told me not to let my age or inexperience deter me from expressing my opinions and concerns. He taught me that my input was just as valuable as everyone else’s. It was after this moment that I recall becoming more comfortable as an engineer. I was less timid and more confident with my work.
What do you do outside of work/what do you do on a day off?
I enjoy being outside playing sports, rock climbing, and I’m recently getting into mountain biking. Of course I also love spending time with my family and friends.
What is your ultimate career/life goal?
Bottom line, I want to be part of a company or organization where work not only felt like it wasn’t work, but where work wasn’t really work. My ultimate life goal is to build on the life and opportunities my parents have given to me and provide my family with the same opportunities.
What advice would you give to other young professionals?
The opportunities you will have in the future will all build on the knowledge, experiences and success from your past. Work hard so you are given these opportunities in the future. Also, always seek opportunities to build your network and learn from those around you, both people at your level and those senior to you. Finally, remember that you are young professionals. Take the time now to engage in unique opportunities or experiences, whether these are professional or personal endeavors.
Leah Stacy is a freelance writer from Rochester.
Anant Mathur
Age: 28
Occupation/company: Optical engineer at Bausch and Lomb
Current town of residence: Rochester
Family life: Single
Education background: Bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from the University of Rochester, master’s degree in optics from the University of Rochester.
