Research and Development Assistant – Pharmaceutical

Talent Recruitment & Consulting; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 250 000 - 350 000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable pharmaceutical firm in Midrand, South Africa, is seeking a Research and Development Assistant to support laboratory projects in product development and testing. Ideal candidates will possess a diploma or bachelor's degree in related fields and have 2-4 years of experience in a pharmaceutical laboratory. Responsibilities include conducting tests, compiling project files, and ensuring compliance with quality standards. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated individuals passionate about advancing product quality and innovation.

Benefits

Opportunities for professional growth

Collaborative team environment

Exposure to diverse R&D activities

Qualifications

• 2-4 years’ experience in a pharmaceutical laboratory environment preferred.
• Familiarity with GMP, GLP, and ISO standards.
• Experience with analytical techniques such as HPLC, UV-Vis, and dissolution testing is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Support the research and development of new products.
• Assist with formulation development and enhancement.
• Compile complete R&D project files for production handover.
• Conduct finished product testing including pH and viscosity.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organisational skills

Clear communication

Computer literacy

Team-oriented

Education

Diploma or Bachelor’s in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry or related discipline

Tools

HPLC

UV-Vis

Job description

Research and Development Assistant – Pharmaceutical

Department: Research & Development
Reporting to: R&D Manager

Our Client, a well-established pharmaceutical and animal health manufacturing organisation, is seeking two Research and Development Assistants to join their dynamic R&D team. This role offers an excellent opportunity for motivated individuals with a strong laboratory background to contribute to product development and continuous improvement within a regulated manufacturing environment.

Role Overview

The Research and Development Assistant will support the design, execution, and documentation of research projects, formulation development, and analytical testing. Working closely with the R&D Manager and wider teams, the role is critical in ensuring the successful development, testing, and handover of products to production.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the research and development of new pharmaceutical and animal health products
• Assist with formulation development and enhancement of existing products
• Compile complete R&D project files to facilitate handover to production
• Prepare laboratory samples for testing and trials
• Conduct finished product testing (e.g. pH, viscosity, and related analyses)
• Compile Certificates of Conformance (CoCs) for finished products
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation, including Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) for raw materials
• Operate laboratory equipment such as FTIR, viscometers, and related instruments
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, GMP, GLP, and ISO standards
• Maintain R&D laboratory inventory and incoming materials
• Manage retention sample storage and disposal in line with procedures as required
• Download, review, and share temperature logs with relevant stakeholders

Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related discipline
• 2-4 years’ experience in a pharmaceutical laboratory environment preferred
• Familiarity with GMP, GLP, and ISO standards
• Experience with analytical techniques such as HPLC, UV-Vis, and dissolution testing is advantageous

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
• Ability to follow procedures and work independently
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Good computer literacy
• Team-oriented, proactive, and dependable approach

What the Client Offers

• Opportunity to join a growing pharmaceutical and animal health manufacturer
• Exposure to a wide range of R&D activities and products
• Supportive, collaborative team environment
• Opportunity to contribute directly to product quality and innovation

This role is ideal for candidates who are passionate about research, quality, and continuous improvement and who thrive in a structured laboratory setting.