Principal Scientist - Pharmaceutical Development

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

Benefits offered by this job

Higher salary with bonus potential

Premium healthcare (medical, dental,视)

Retirement contributions

Extensive training opportunities

Hybrid work in Centurion

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an accomplished Principal Scientist to lead formulation development and scale-up for drug candidates in Centurion. The role involves guiding development from early research through clinical trials, mentoring a team, and solving complex formulation challenges.

The ideal candidate has a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field, 8+ years in pharma R&D, and strong knowledge of drug delivery technologies and GMP. Hybrid work is available in Centurion.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• 8+ years of relevant pharma R&D with strong formulation/process science focus.
• Deep knowledge of drug delivery technologies, solid-state chemistry, GMP.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation development studies for novel drug delivery systems.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for drug substances/products with scalability and regulatory compliance.
• Troubleshoot complex technical issues in formulation and process development.
• Collaborate with analytical development, QC, and regulatory affairs to ensure project progression.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, fostering scientific rigor and continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Problem solving

GMP knowledge

Education

Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences / Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Principal Scientist to lead key initiatives within their Pharmaceutical Development division located in Centurion . This senior role is instrumental in guiding the formulation, process development, and scale-up of innovative drug candidates from early-stage research through to clinical trials. You will leverage your deep expertise in pharmaceutical sciences to solve complex development challenges, mentor a team of scientists, and ensure the successful translation of scientific discoveries into viable pharmaceutical products. This position is ideal for a seasoned professional looking to make a substantial impact in a fast-paced, research-intensive environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, execution, and interpretation of formulation development studies for novel drug delivery systems.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for drug substances and drug products, ensuring scalability and regulatory compliance.
• Troubleshoot complex technical issues encountered during formulation and process development activities.
• Collaborate closely with analytical development, quality control, and regulatory affairs teams to ensure seamless project progression.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of scientific rigor and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in pharmaceutical research and development, with a strong focus on formulation and process science.
• Extensive knowledge of drug delivery technologies, solid-state chemistry, and manufacturing principles (e.g., GMP).
• Proven track record of successfully advancing drug candidates through the development pipeline.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and strong leadership skills.

Benefits

• Highly attractive salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Premium healthcare, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous contributions to retirement savings plans.
• Extensive professional development and training opportunities.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment in Centurion , with hybrid work flexibility.