Pharmaceutical Formulation Scientist - Research & Development

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Health, dental, vision insurance

Generous paid time off

Continued learning & professional grow

Hybrid work environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape seeks a Pharmaceutical Formulation Scientist to join its R&D team on a hybrid basis. You will design, develop, and optimize novel dosage forms, scale processes from bench to pilot plant, and collaborate with analytical and regulatory groups to ensure robust products.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 5 years in formulation development, with Master’s or Ph.D. in a related field, strong experimental design and problem-solving skills, and a track record

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years in pharmaceutical formulation development in an R&D setting.
• Strong knowledge of dosage forms, drug delivery systems, and excipient functionalities.
• Experience with formulation equipment and analytical instruments for product characterization.
• Familiarity with ICH guidelines and GMP principles.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop innovative pharmaceutical formulations for various dosage forms.
• Conduct pre-formulation studies including solubility and stability testing.
• Evaluate excipients and select based on requirements and delivery characteristics.
• Characterize formulated products using analytical techniques and equipment.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges to ensure performance and manufacturability.
• Scale-up processes from lab to pilot plant and manufacturing scales.
• Prepare technical documentation and validation reports.
• Collaborate with analytical, process development and regulatory teams.
• Stay updated on new technologies in formulation and drug delivery.
• Contribute to IP portfolio through invention disclosures and patents.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the pharmaceutical sector, is seeking a talented Pharmaceutical Formulation Scientist to join their Research and Development team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This role is central to the design, development, and optimization of novel drug delivery systems and dosage forms. You will leverage your expertise in pharmaceutical sciences to translate scientific concepts into stable, effective, and manufacturable pharmaceutical products. This hybrid position offers a dynamic work environment, blending laboratory-based research with opportunities for collaboration and strategic input. You will play a pivotal role in advancing the company's pipeline, ensuring that potential medicines reach patients in the most effective forms. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background and practical experience in formulation development, excipient selection, and characterization techniques.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop innovative pharmaceutical formulations for various dosage forms (e.g., oral solid dosage, liquids, semi-solids, injectables).
• Conduct pre-formulation studies, including solubility, stability, and compatibility testing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and excipients.
• Evaluate and select appropriate excipients based on formulation requirements and intended delivery characteristics.
• Perform characterization of formulated products using analytical techniques (e.g., particle size analysis, dissolution testing, microscopy).
• Investigate and troubleshoot formulation challenges to ensure product performance, stability, and manufacturability.
• Scale-up formulation processes from laboratory bench to pilot plant and manufacturing scales.
• Prepare technical documentation, including formulation development reports, protocols, and validation reports.
• Collaborate closely with analytical development, process development, and regulatory affairs teams.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and scientific advancements in pharmaceutical formulation and drug delivery.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through invention disclosures and patent applications.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in pharmaceutical formulation development in an R&D setting.
• In-depth knowledge of various dosage forms, drug delivery systems, and excipient functionalities.
• Hands‑on experience with formulation equipment and analytical instruments relevant to drug product characterization.
• Strong understanding of pharmaceutical product development lifecycle, regulatory requirements (e.g., ICH guidelines), and GMP principles.
• Excellent experimental design and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, with strong technical writing abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for cross‑functional team collaboration.
• Experience with solid dosage forms (tablets, capsules) is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with solubility enhancement techniques and controlled-release technologies is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Opportunities for continued learning and professional growth in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
• Engage in cutting‑edge R&D within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Access to advanced laboratory facilities and technologies.
• A stimulating and collaborative hybrid work environment.