Principal Pharmaceutical Development Scientist

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Health coverage

Life insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional growth through training &

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Pharmaceutical Development Scientist to join the Durban team. You will lead formulation development from concept through manufacturing, mentoring scientists and collaborating with regulatory affairs, analytical, and manufacturing groups.

The role requires a PhD and 10+ years in dosage form development, with strong GMP/ICH knowledge and leadership abilities. You will drive process development, scale-up, tech transfer, and regulatory submissions while advancing

Qualifications

• PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in pharmaceutical formulation and product development.
• Expertise across dosage forms (oral solids, sterile solutions, suspensions).
• Strong GMP, ICH knowledge and regulatory submission experience (IND, NDA).
• Proven track record in process development, optimization and tech transfer.
• Leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation development of new drug products (solid dosage forms, sterile injectables, topical).
• Design experiments for pre-formulation, formulation optimization, and process development.
• Oversee scale-up of laboratory formulations to pilot and manufacturing.
• Develop and validate manufacturing processes per GMP and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct stability studies and troubleshoot formulation issues.
• Collaborate with analytical development to establish methods for characterization and QC.
• Provide technical guidance to project teams and manufacturing personnel.
• Prepare development reports, regulatory submissions, and technology transfer packages.
• Stay abreast of new technologies in pharmaceutical development.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory knowledge

Problem solving

Communication

Project management

Analytical thinking

Education

PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences or Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished entity within the pharmaceutical sector, is actively seeking a highly experienced Principal Pharmaceutical Development Scientist to join their innovative team based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior position is crucial for driving the development of new pharmaceutical products from concept through to successful manufacturing. The role demands extensive expertise in formulation development, process optimization, and scale-up activities. You will provide scientific leadership, mentoring junior scientists, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams including regulatory affairs, analytical development, and manufacturing. This role offers a significant opportunity to make a tangible impact on the company's product pipeline and contribute to advancements in healthcare. The position requires a strategic mindset and a hands‑on approach to problem‑solving in a dynamic research environment. Join our client in the vibrant coastal city of Durban and be at the forefront of pharmaceutical innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation development of new drug products, including solid dosage forms, sterile injectables, and topical preparations.
• Design and execute experimental studies for pre‑formulation, formulation optimization, and process development.
• Oversee the scale‑up of laboratory‑scale formulations to pilot and commercial manufacturing processes.
• Develop and validate manufacturing processes in compliance with GMP and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct stability studies and troubleshoot formulation‑related issues to ensure product quality and shelf‑life.
• Collaborate with analytical development teams to establish appropriate analytical methods for characterization and quality control.
• Provide technical expertise and scientific guidance to project teams and manufacturing personnel.
• Prepare comprehensive development reports, regulatory submission documents, and technical transfer packages.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and scientific advancements in pharmaceutical development.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists, fostering their technical and professional growth.

Requirements

• PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical formulation and drug product development.
• Demonstrated expertise in various dosage forms (e.g., oral solids, sterile solutions, suspensions).
• Strong understanding of GMP, ICH guidelines, and regulatory submission requirements (e.g., IND, NDA).
• Proven experience in process development, optimization, and technology transfer.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills with a strong scientific and technical foundation.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with advanced formulation technologies and drug delivery systems is highly desirable.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency in relevant scientific software and laboratory equipment.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive compensation package commensurate with experience, including a competitive base salary, performance incentives, and comprehensive benefits.
• This includes extensive health coverage, life insurance, and a robust retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for professional growth through advanced training, workshops, and attendance to international conferences.
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