Lead Pharmaceutical Formulations Scientist

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Provident fund

Annual leave

Professional development

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Pharmaceutical Formulations Scientist to head our formulation development in Centurion, Gauteng. You will guide a team and oversee the entire lifecycle from pre-formulation to commercialization support in an on-site R&D facility.

The role requires advanced degree and a proven record in drug delivery systems, GMP/ICH knowledge, and strong project leadership. Collaboration with manufacturing and analytical teams is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing scientific teams.
• Extensive knowledge of drug delivery systems, excipients, and manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques such as HPLC, dissolution testing, and particle size analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of formulation scientists in the development of novel drug delivery systems.
• Design and execute experimental plans for pre‑formulation studies, formulation development, and optimization.
• Oversee the development of various dosage forms, including oral solids, injectables, and topical preparations.
• Conduct stability studies and assess product shelf‑life.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for characterization of formulated products.
• Ensure compliance with GMP regulations and ICH guidelines throughout the development process.
• Collaborate with process development, analytical development, and manufacturing teams.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, summaries, and documentation for regulatory submissions.
• Evaluate and implement new formulation technologies and equipment.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively.

Skills

Leadership

Pharmaceutical formulations

Project management

Analytical techniques

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Tools

HPLC

Dissolution testing

Particle size analysis

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Pharmaceutical Formulations Scientist to spearhead our formulation development efforts in Centurion, Gauteng . This leadership role is critical to our mission of transforming innovative drug candidates into safe, effective, and stable pharmaceutical products. You will guide a team of talented scientists, oversee the entire formulation development lifecycle, and contribute to strategic decision‑making within our R&D department. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of pharmaceutical sciences, advanced formulation techniques, and a proven ability to manage complex projects from inception through to commercialization support. This is an on‑site position, offering the opportunity to work hands‑on in our advanced research facilities and collaborate closely with colleagues in a dynamic, research‑driven environment. Your leadership will be key in shaping the future of Our client’s product pipeline and ensuring we deliver high‑quality medicines to patients.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of formulation scientists in the development of novel drug delivery systems.
• Design and execute experimental plans for pre‑formulation studies, formulation development, and optimization.
• Oversee the development of various dosage forms, including oral solids, injectables, and topical preparations.
• Conduct stability studies and assess product shelf‑life.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for characterization of formulated products.
• Ensure compliance with GMP regulations and ICH guidelines throughout the development process.
• Collaborate with process development, analytical development, and manufacturing teams.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, summaries, and documentation for regulatory submissions.
• Evaluate and implement new formulation technologies and equipment.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively.

Requirements

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing scientific teams.
• Extensive knowledge of drug delivery systems, excipients, and manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques such as HPLC, dissolution testing, and particle size analysis.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements (ICH, FDA, EMA).Excellent problem‑solving and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional project management and organizational abilities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Experience with sterile product formulation is a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary, a performance‑based bonus structure, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as a provident fund. Employees benefit from generous annual leave and opportunities for continuous professional development, including attending international conferences. The role is based at our state‑of‑the‑art facility in Centurion, Gauteng , offering a stimulating research environment and ample opportunities for career growth within a leading pharmaceutical organization. We also provide access to advanced training programs and encourage innovation and collaboration among our esteemed scientific staff.