About the Role
Our client, a renowned pharmaceutical company, is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Pharmaceutical Formulations Scientist to join their Research and Development department in Centurion, Gauteng . This role is crucial for the design, development, and optimization of novel drug formulations for various therapeutic areas. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of drug delivery systems, excipient functionality, and pre-formulation studies. You will be instrumental in translating scientific discoveries into viable product candidates. This position involves extensive laboratory work and requires a blend of scientific expertise and practical application. Working in Centurion, Gauteng , places you within a hub of technological advancement and corporate activity, offering significant professional advantages. The hybrid work model allows for a balanced approach to work and personal life.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop robust pharmaceutical formulations for oral, parenteral, and topical drug delivery systems.
- Conduct pre-formulation studies, including physicochemical characterization of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs).
- Evaluate and select appropriate excipients to achieve desired drug release profiles and bioavailability.
- Develop and validate analytical methods for assessing formulation performance and stability.
- Perform stability studies according to ICH guidelines and regulatory requirements.
- Troubleshoot formulation issues and optimize existing formulations for improved efficacy and manufacturability.
- Collaborate with process development teams to ensure seamless scale-up of formulations from lab to pilot and commercial scale.
- Prepare comprehensive documentation, including formulation development reports, research summaries, and regulatory submission documents.
- Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and technologies in pharmaceutical formulation and drug delivery.
- Work effectively within a multidisciplinary R&D team.
Requirements
- Ph.D. or Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or a related field.
- Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
- Strong understanding of drug delivery principles, excipient science, and solid dosage form technology.
- Experience with various analytical techniques (e.g., HPLC, dissolution testing, DSC, TGA).
- Knowledge of regulatory guidelines (e.g., FDA, EMA) pertaining to formulation development and stability.
- Excellent laboratory skills and experience with formulation equipment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
- Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving abilities.
- Familiarity with statistical analysis software is a plus.
Benefits
- Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package.
- This includes excellent health coverage, life insurance, and a retirement savings plan.
- Opportunities for professional development, attending scientific conferences, and pursuing further education are available.
- The company fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration.
- Paid time off includes vacation, sick days, and public holidays.
- The role is situated in the conveniently located Centurion, Gauteng , with a flexible hybrid work arrangement.