Lead Pharmaceutical Development Scientist

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Performance bonuses

Career advancement

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 represents a leading pharmaceutical company seeking a Lead Pharmaceutical Development Scientist in George, Western Cape. The role leads a team of scientists to design, develop, and scale formulations and processes from concept to commercialization.

You will drive pre-formulation studies, manage timelines and budgets, ensure GMP compliance, and collaborate across analytical, regulatory, and manufacturing teams to deliver high-quality medicinal products.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years in pharmaceutical product development with at least 2 years in leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of pharmaceutical scientists and technicians in formulation development and process optimization.
• Design and execute pre-formulation studies, solubility enhancement, and formulation development for dosage forms.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for scalability and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct stability studies and establish shelf-life and storage conditions.
• Collaborate with analytical development, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing teams.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Project management

Education

Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative pharmaceutical company, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Pharmaceutical Development Scientist to spearhead crucial research and development initiatives in George, Western Cape. This pivotal role will involve leading a team of scientists in the design, execution, and optimization of pharmaceutical formulations and processes. You will play a key part in bringing new and improved medicinal products from concept to commercialization, ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficacy. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing sector, contributing to advancements in healthcare. The role demands a blend of scientific expertise, leadership capabilities, and a deep understanding of drug development lifecycle. You will be based in the scenic George area, working within a cutting‑edge facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of pharmaceutical scientists and technicians in formulation development and process optimization.
• Design and execute pre‑formulation studies, solubility enhancement techniques, and formulation development for various dosage forms (e.g., oral solids, liquids, injectables).
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes, ensuring scalability, robustness, and cost‑effectiveness.
• Conduct stability studies and interpret data to establish product shelf‑life and storage conditions.
• Collaborate closely with analytical development, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless project progression.
• Prepare comprehensive development reports, regulatory submission documents (e.g., CTD modules), and technical presentations.
• Stay updated on the latest scientific advancements, industry trends, and regulatory requirements in pharmaceutical development.
• Troubleshoot formulation and process‑related issues, implementing effective solutions.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of the R&D department and identify new opportunities for innovation.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in pharmaceutical product development, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory capacity.
• Proven track record in developing and scaling up various dosage forms, with hands‑on experience in formulation techniques and excipient selection.
• In‑depth knowledge of drug delivery systems, bioavailability enhancement strategies, and biopharmaceutical principles.
• Strong understanding of GMP, regulatory requirements (FDA, EMA, SAHPRA), and relevant ICH guidelines.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific documentation.
• Experience with contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs) is a plus.
• Ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and drive projects to completion within timelines in George, Western Cape.

Benefits

• This position offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our employees.
• Excellent health insurance, performance‑based bonuses, and significant opportunities for career advancement and professional training.
• Generous annual leave allowance and a retirement savings plan.
• Our client fosters a collaborative and innovative work environment, promoting work‑life balance and professional growth for its team members in George.
• This role offers a chance to lead impactful projects within the pharmaceutical sector.