Principal Scientist, Formulation & Development

LEO Pharma; Ballerup; On-site; DKK 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

LEO Pharma in Denmark invites an experienced Principal Formulation Scientist to join our Dermatology development team in Ballerup. You will lead formulation activities for topical drug products, collaborate with CMC and external CDMOs, and shape development strategies for clinical candidates.

We seek a proactive leader with hands-on lab experience, strong communication skills, and a PhD in pharmaceutical science.

Qualifications

• Extensive senior experience in pharmaceutical science and pre-formulation.
• Strong planning and communication skills with CMC focus teams.
• PhD in pharmaceutical science, pre-formulation, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute formulation activities with internal teams and external CMOs/CROs.
• Oversee operational aspects of formulation development and liaison with lines of business.
• Lead topical development project teams and contribute to CMC strategies.
• Oversee CDMO activities to ensure milestones are met.
• Prepare sections of regulatory documentation for submission.

Skills

Senior formulation

Strategic planning

Cross-functional collaboration

Regulatory documentation

Lab leadership

Education

PhD in pharmaceutical science

Job description

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Principal Scientist, Formulation & Development

Field of work: Research

Posting Date: 18 Sept 2026

Join us in the journey to become a global leader in topical formulation

We are looking for an experienced and motivatedPrincipal Formulation Scientistto join our team and play a key role informulation development.

If you are ready to make an impact in a dynamic pharmaceutical development environment and help define the future of topical formulations, we would be excited to hear from you.

Your Role

This role brings together stimulating scientific challenges and a passion for planning and executing tasks within formulation development in a collaborative environment. This is a great opportunity for a Principal Scientist eager to contribute to the development of innovative products for patients living with dermatologic diseases. You will play a crucial role in the development of new topical formulations and drug products for clinical development.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Responsibility for planning, coordinating, and executing formulation activities and deliverables, both internally and with external CMOs/CROs by following up on data and communicating with project teams and lines of business.


• Taking accountability for the operational aspects of formulation development and serving as an important link between projects and the lines of business.


• Participating in topical development project teams as the responsible formulation scientist, giving input to overall project CMC strategies as well as developing and executing formulation development plans.


• Providing oversight of activities at Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisations (CDMOs) to ensure execution and timely delivery of project milestones.


• Preparing relevant sections of regulatory documentation for submission to regulatory authorities.

As a Principal Formulation Scientist, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams and departments within the organisation to contribute to the successful development of drug products. Your expertise and contributions will be essential in shaping the future of pharmaceutical development at LEO Pharma.

Your Qualifications

We are looking for someone with a positive, collaborative mindset — someone who is curious and open‑minded, eager to explore new perspectives and apply new learnings.

• Extensive senior experience in pharmaceutical science and pre-formulation, preferably in the pharmaceutical industry.


• Excellent planning and communication skills, with experience working on CMC focus teams and collaborating with the Project Management Lead (CMC Lead) and the CMC focus team.


• PhD in pharmaceutical science, pre-formulation, or a related field.


• Expert knowledge of pre-formulation, formulation development and packaging during development, preferably within topical drug product development.


• Hands‑on formulation laboratory experience in pharmaceutical development.


• Experience working with external development laboratories and manufacturing partners, including outsourcing processes.

Your team

You will join our dynamic team in Ballerup, a group of dedicated scientists and technicians with a shared passion for designing and developing topical formulations within Pharmaceutical Development. We work closely together and across LEO Pharma to ensure the successful development of new drug products that make a real difference for patients.

By joining us, you will be part of a collaborative, innovative environment where close collaboration is part of our daily way of working. We encourage fresh perspectives and welcome ideas that drive progress. Our supportive culture gives you opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions, share knowledge, and learn from each other’s expertise.

Together, we strive to reach our goals and advance treatments far beyond the skin.

Beyond the skin

Join LEO Pharma, a global leader in medical dermatology, as we go beyond the skin to make a lasting impact. Our innovative approach sets us apart. We are dedicated to leaving a legacy that positively impacts patients, colleagues, and our planet.

At LEO Pharma, we believe in the power of individuals to drive change. Our flat organizational structure empowers you to make a visible impact and offers versatile roles for professional growth. We value diversity and welcome applications from all qualified candidates, recognizing that our different perspectives, backgrounds, and attitudes enable us to make the best decisions. Join our passionate team at LEO Pharma and be yourself as we work together to make a difference.

For certain positions, LEO Pharma might complete a background check conducted by a third party.