Remote Lead Formulation Scientist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first work model

Professional development opportunities

Competitive compensation

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Remote Lead Formulation Scientist in South Africa to drive advanced drug formulation programs from concept to clinic. You will design, develop, and optimize dosage forms, mentor junior scientists, and collaborate with analytical, process development, and manufacturing teams.

The role requires a PhD or MSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field, 7+ years in formulation development, and excellent scientific writing and communication skills.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry or related field.
• 7+ years hands-on formulation development experience.
• Strong knowledge of drug delivery systems and excipients.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and optimization of dosage forms (oral, injectables, topicals).
• Conduct pre-formulation and physicochemical characterization of APIs.
• Oversee stability studies and regulatory-aligned documentation.
• Mentor junior scientists and coordinate cross-functional teams.
• Communicate complex data clearly and drive project planning.

Skills

Leadership

Remote work

HPLC

Dissolution testing

Particle size analysis

Formulation techniques

Education

PhD or MSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Pharmaceutics or Chemistry

Tools

HPLC

Dissolution testing

Particle size analysis

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering pharmaceutical company committed to advancing healthcare, is seeking an exceptional Remote Lead Formulation Scientist to spearhead innovative drug development projects. This is a remote-first opportunity, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere in South Africa. You will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing novel drug formulations, ensuring their efficacy, stability, and bioavailability. As a Lead Scientist, you will guide research efforts, mentor junior scientists, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring life-changing therapies from concept to clinic. This role requires a deep understanding of pharmaceutical sciences, extensive experience in formulation development, and a passion for scientific excellence. You will work on cutting-edge projects, utilizing advanced technologies and methodologies to solve complex formulation challenges. The emphasis is on innovation, meticulous execution, and achieving regulatory success. Your work will directly impact the development pipeline and the delivery of critical medicines to patients globally. The ability to manage projects effectively and communicate complex scientific information clearly is paramount for this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of various pharmaceutical dosage forms (e.g., oral solids, injectables, topicals).
• Conduct pre-formulation studies, including physicochemical characterization of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
• Develop robust and scalable formulations that meet product specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee stability studies to assess the shelf-life and degradation pathways of formulations.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and identify root causes of issues, proposing effective solutions.
• Manage formulation development projects, including planning, execution, and reporting.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior formulation scientists and technicians.
• Collaborate with analytical development, process development, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless project progression.
• Prepare and review scientific documents, including development reports, protocols, and regulatory submission documents.
• Stay abreast of new technologies, scientific advancements, and regulatory trends in pharmaceutical formulation.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation development, with a strong track record of successful project delivery.
• Extensive knowledge of drug delivery systems, excipients, and their interactions.
• Proficiency in various formulation techniques and analytical methods (e.g., HPLC, dissolution testing, particle size analysis).
• Experience with different dosage forms and administration routes.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to mentor and manage scientific staff.
• Excellent scientific writing, presentation, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and thrive in a remote, fast-paced environment.
• Experience with solid dosage forms and controlled-release technologies is highly desirable.
• Must be based in South Africa and eligible to work remotely.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.

This fully remote position provides exceptional flexibility, allowing you to achieve a healthy work-life balance.

You will have access to extensive professional development opportunities, including specialized training, workshops, and participation in scientific conferences.

As a Lead Scientist, you will play a crucial role in shaping the company's R&D pipeline and contributing to the development of innovative medicines.

Our client fosters a collaborative and intellectually stimulating remote work environment, encouraging scientific discourse and innovation.

This is a unique chance to lead cutting-edge research from home and make a significant impact on global health.