Senior Scientist - Formulation Development (R&D)

Nivagen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus eligibility

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401k savings plan

Job summary

Nivagen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. in Sacramento, CA is seeking a Senior Scientist with expertise in formulation development. This role is pivotal for developing and optimizing drug formulations from early-stage research through commercialization. The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. and has 3+ years of experience in sterile dosage forms and a proven track record of success.

Key responsibilities include leading formulation design, ensuring regulatory compliance, and mentoring team members. Nivagen offers competitive pay ranging from $70,000 to $90,000 and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or postgraduate degree in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in sterile pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Hands-on experience with various formulation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Lead and optimize drug formulation development.
• Develop formulation strategies in alignment with regulatory guidelines.
• Mentor and lead team members.

Skills

Formulation principles

Injectable dosage forms

Statistical design of experiments

Leadership and project management

Education

Ph.D. in Pharmacy or related field

Tools

Statistical analysis software

Formulation equipment

Job description

About the Company

Nivagen is a global company dedicated to enhancing lives by developing and providing cost‑effective generic prescription drugs and over‑the‑counter products for the North American market. For over a decade, we’ve remained steadfast in our commitment to core values of excellence, integrity, and respect for people. Our team of professionals collaborates tirelessly to pioneer advancements in manufacturing, distribution, and quality control, ensuring a holistic approach to healthcare. Through vertical integration of the pharmaceutical supply chain, cutting‑edge technology, and unwavering dedication to excellence, we continually strive to redefine medication accessibility and affordability. We prioritize our employees’ well‑being by offering competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and robust training and development opportunities. By investing in our workforce and fostering a culture of growth and support, we empower our team to drive innovation and make a positive impact in the healthcare industry. At Nivagen, our mission is clear: to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives by delivering high‑quality, affordable medications while upholding the highest standards of integrity and excellence.

Job Type

Full Time

Job Location

Nivagen Pharmaceuticals Inc., Sacramento, CA

About the Job

Title of the Position: Senior Scientist - Formulation Development

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Scientist to join our Formulation Development team. The successful candidate will play a critical role in the development and optimization of drug formulations from early‑stage research through commercialization. This position requires a deep understanding of formulation principles, a strong scientific background, and a proven track record of success in the pharmaceutical industry.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of complex injectable and sterile dosage forms.
• Develop and implement robust formulation development strategies aligned with regulatory guidelines (e.g., Quality by Design, FDA).
• Apply scientific fundamentals and creative problem‑solving skills to solve complex technical issues.
• Conduct rigorous experimental design studies (e.g., factorial design) to achieve project objectives.
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, including Technical Services, Operations, and Regulatory Affairs.
• Define scope, timeline, and resource needs of functional activities and keep team on schedule.
• Participate in evaluation of new product opportunities.
• Ensure timely and high‑quality documentation for regulatory submissions.
• Stay updated with all FDA and regulatory requirements/guidelines.
• Provide mentorship and leadership to team members.
• Stay up to date with the latest scientific advancements in formulation development and applying new technologies to improve product performance.
• Author and review technical reports, protocols, and regulatory documents.
• Additional duties and assignments as needed.

Education and Experience

• Ph.D. or Postgraduate degree in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 3+ years of hands‑on experience in sterile/Injectable pharmaceutical formulation development. Strong candidates with combinations of education and experience will be considered.
• Strong understanding of formulation principles, excipients, and drug delivery systems.
• Hands‑on experience with various formulation techniques and equipment.
• Proven track record of successful formulation development and commercialization.
• Experience with statistical design of experiments (DOE) and data analysis.

Skills and Abilities

• Proven track record of successful formulation development for various sterile dosage forms.
• Strong leadership, project management, and organizational skills.
• Expertise in complex injectable and sterile dosage form development.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and problem‑solving.

Requirements

• Must live in or be willing to move to the Sacramento Metropolitan Region (approximately 40 miles in radius).

Benefits

• Pay range $70,000‑$90,000 per Year
• Yearly bonus eligibility
• Benefits: Nivagen offers a wide variety of benefits and programs to support health and well‑being
• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• Paid time off plan
• 401k savings plan

Equal Opportunity Statement

Nivagen affords equal opportunity for employment to all individuals regardless of race, color, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, history of disability, ancestry, citizenship status, political affiliation, religion, gender, transgender, gender identity, marital status, status as a parent, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information or other factors prohibited by law, and prohibits harassment or retaliation based on any of these factors.