Scott McEldowney, Ph.D., is an optical physicist and research leader based in Redmond, WA. He has a proven history of innovation in the fields of optics, photonics, and imaging systems. McEldowney directed foundational research teams at both Microsoft and Meta Reality Labs. He is an inventor with over 70 patents, and has contributed to AR/VR technologies, display systems, and optical sensing. He is experienced in strategic research and development, startup integration, and system-level prototyping.

His professional experience includes roles as Director, Research Science / Display Architect at Meta Reality Labs from 2014 to May 2025, and Principal Optical Engineer at Microsoft from 2008 to 2014. Before that, he was a Principal Research Engineer and Manager at JDSU / OCLI from 1990 to 2008, and a Research Engineer at Lockheed Aeronautical Systems from 1987 to 1990.

Dr. McEldowney holds a Ph.D. in Optical Sciences from the University of Arizona (2008), an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from California State University, Northridge (1990), and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Arizona (1986). His subject matter expertise includes Polarization, Optical Film design and processing, Imaging, Display, and Optical Design and Architecture. His published works and patents cover a range of topics, including Mueller matrix imaging, eye-tracking systems, and near-eye displays