Lead Formulation Scientist (Remote)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,300,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Home office allowance

Remote work

Professional development

Retirement plan

Flexible hours

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Formulation Scientist to drive drug formulation development for remote projects based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will mentor junior scientists, oversee studies from pre-formulation to manufacturing transfer, and ensure GMP/compliance while collaborating with analytics, manufacturing and regulatory teams.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in Pharmaceutics or related field, with 7+ years in formulation development and strong leadership in remote

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Demonstrated expertise in at least one major dosage form category (e.g., oral solids, injectables, biologics).
• Strong understanding of materials science, physical chemistry, and biopharmaceutics.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and lead a scientific team in a remote setting.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for effective virtual collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation development of new drug products from early-stage research through to clinical supply.
• Oversee the design and execution of formulation studies, including pre-formulation, excipient screening, and process development.
• Analyze and interpret formulation and stability data, making data-driven recommendations.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for various dosage forms.
• Troubleshoot formulation and manufacturing issues, implementing effective solutions.
• Ensure all formulation activities comply with GMP, regulatory guidelines, and internal quality standards.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, documentation for regulatory submissions, and presentations.
• Collaborate closely with analytical development, manufacturing, and regulatory affairs teams.
• Mentor and guide junior formulation scientists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in formulation science and drug delivery technologies.

Skills

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Pharmaceutics or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished player in the pharmaceutical industry, is actively seeking a Lead Formulation Scientist for a completely remote position based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA . This role is instrumental in driving the development of innovative drug delivery systems and pharmaceutical formulations. The successful candidate will lead critical projects, mentor junior scientists, and contribute significantly to the company's pipeline of advanced therapeutics. We are looking for an individual with extensive expertise in pharmaceutics, particularly in areas such as solid dosage forms, injectables, or topical preparations. This role demands a high level of autonomy, strategic thinking, and a passion for translating scientific concepts into tangible pharmaceutical products. As a fully remote position, exceptional organizational skills and the ability to foster strong virtual collaborations are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation development of new drug products from early-stage research through to clinical supply.
• Oversee the design and execution of formulation studies, including pre-formulation, excipient screening, and process development.
• Analyze and interpret formulation and stability data, making data-driven recommendations.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for various dosage forms.
• Troubleshoot formulation and manufacturing issues, implementing effective solutions.
• Ensure all formulation activities comply with GMP, regulatory guidelines, and internal quality standards.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, documentation for regulatory submissions, and presentations.
• Collaborate closely with analytical development, manufacturing, and regulatory affairs teams.
• Mentor and guide junior formulation scientists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in formulation science and drug delivery technologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Demonstrated expertise in at least one major dosage form category (e.g., oral solids, injectables, biologics).
• Strong understanding of materials science, physical chemistry, and biopharmaceutics.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and lead a scientific team in a remote setting.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for effective virtual collaboration.
• Experience with scale-up and technology transfer is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in relevant scientific software and laboratory instrumentation.
• A strong understanding of regulatory requirements (e.g., ICH guidelines) for drug product development.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive remuneration package, including a highly competitive annual salary, annual bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits plan that covers medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• This remote role comes with a generous allowance for home office equipment and internet services.
• Professional development is encouraged through access to industry conferences, workshops, and continuing education programs.
• A strong retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions is provided.
• The company fosters a collaborative and innovative remote work environment, promoting work-life balance.
• Employees benefit from flexible working hours and ample paid time off.
• This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact from Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA .