Remote Pharmaceutical R&D Scientist (Formulation)

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health Insurance

Retirement plan

Learning programs

Tech stipend

Remote-friendly culture

Global project exposure

Job summary

Placements24 clients seek a remote Pharmaceutical R&D Scientist specializing in formulation development. You will design, optimize, and troubleshoot formulations across dosage forms from home, collaborating with a global team to advance candidates through development stages.

The role requires 4–6 years in formulation, strong analytical skills (HPLC, DSC, TGA, XRPD), and DoE expertise, with a track record of scientific writing and remote project management.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• 4–6 years of hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Expertise in solid oral dosage forms, sterile injectables, and controlled release.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques: HPLC, DSC, TGA, XRPD, particle size analysis.
• Strong understanding of drug delivery principles, excipient science, and material science.
• Experience with DoE and statistical analysis is highly desirable.
• Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for drug development (FDA, EMA).

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize innovative pharmaceutical formulations for various dosage forms.
• Conduct pre-formulation studies to understand drug substance properties and excipient compatibility.
• Perform formulation screening, characterization, and stability studies under various conditions.
• Utilise advanced analytical techniques to evaluate drug product performance, dissolution profiles, and physical characteristics.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and propose effective solutions.
• Collaborate with chemists, biologists, and other R&D team members to advance drug candidates.
• Prepare technical reports and regulatory submission documentation.
• Stay updated on literature, industry trends, and regulatory guidelines related to formulation development.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation through patent applications and publications.

Education

Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Master's in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field

Tools

HPLC

DSC

TGA

XRPD

Particle size analysis

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned pharmaceutical innovator dedicated to advancing global health through cutting-edge drug development, is seeking a highly skilled and imaginative Remote Pharmaceutical R&D Scientist specializing in Formulation Development. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to novel drug discovery and development from the comfort of your home office. As a remote-first role, you will leverage your expertise to design, develop, and optimize pharmaceutical formulations, ensuring efficacy, stability, and manufacturability. You will collaborate closely with a world-class team of scientists and researchers, driving projects from conceptualization through to pre-clinical stages. We are committed to fostering an environment where scientific curiosity flourishes and groundbreaking discoveries are made. This role is ideal for an independent, results-driven scientist who is passionate about bringing life-changing therapies to patients. The focus is on innovation and scientific rigor, enabling you to make a significant impact on the future of medicine.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize innovative pharmaceutical formulations for various dosage forms (e.g., oral solids, injectables, topical).
• Conduct pre-formulation studies to understand drug substance properties and excipient compatibility.
• Perform formulation screening, characterization, and stability studies under various conditions.
• Utilise advanced analytical techniques to evaluate drug product performance, dissolution profiles, and physical characteristics.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and propose effective solutions.
• Collaborate closely with chemists, biologists, and other R&D team members to advance drug candidates through the development pipeline.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, documentation for regulatory submissions, and presentations for project teams and management.
• Stay updated on the latest scientific literature, industry trends, and regulatory guidelines related to formulation development.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation through patent applications and scientific publications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation development, preferably in a research and development setting.
• Demonstrated expertise in various dosage form development (e.g., solid oral dosage forms, sterile injectables, controlled release).
• Proficiency in analytical techniques relevant to formulation characterization (e.g., HPLC, DSC, TGA, XRPD, particle size analysis).
• Strong understanding of drug delivery principles, excipient science, and material science.
• Experience with experimental design (DoE) and statistical analysis is highly desirable.
• Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for drug development (e.g., FDA, EMA).

Benefits

• This remote position offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package.
• This includes excellent health, dental, and vision insurance coverage, as well as a robust retirement savings plan.
• Employees are provided with opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, including access to scientific conferences and training programs.
• A technology stipend is provided to ensure you have the necessary resources for effective remote work.
• Our client fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence, offering a stimulating environment for growth.
• You will have the chance to work on groundbreaking projects that have the potential to impact patient lives globally, all while enjoying the flexibility of a remote role.