Senior Pharmaceutical Chemist - Formulation Development

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Retirement plan

Conference sponsorship

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Pharmaceutical Chemist specialized in Formulation Development in Klerksdorp, North West. Lead development of solid dosage forms, optimize formulations, and drive scale-up to manufacturing while mentoring junior staff.

The role requires a Master's or PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field, and a minimum of 6 years in formulation development, with GMP familiarity and strong problem-solving abilities.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Experience developing multiple dosage forms with emphasis on solid oral dosage forms.
• In-depth knowledge of excipient functionality and drug-excipient interactions.
• Experience with GMP and regulatory guidelines relevant to formulation development.
• Strong problem-solving, project management, and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation development of solid dosage forms (tablets, capsules) and related products.
• Design pre-formulation studies to characterize drug substances and excipients.
• Develop and optimize formulations for stability, release, and bioavailability.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges during development and scale-up.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for materials, in-process controls, and finished products.
• Conduct stability studies per ICH guidelines and interpret results.
• Collaborate with analytical, process development, and manufacturing teams for tech transfer.
• Prepare development reports and regulatory submission documentation.
• Mentor junior chemists and provide technical guidance in formulation science.

Education

Master's or PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences / Pharmaceutics / Chemistry

Tools

HPLC

GC

Dissolution Testing

DSC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading pharmaceutical research and development organization, is seeking a highly qualified Senior Pharmaceutical Chemist specializing in Formulation Development to join their innovative team in Klerksdorp, North West. This role is pivotal in the design, development, and optimization of novel drug formulations for various dosage forms. You will lead formulation projects, troubleshoot development challenges, and ensure that formulations are stable, effective, and suitable for large-scale manufacturing. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of pharmaceutical sciences, excipient compatibility, drug delivery systems, and analytical method development. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge pharmaceutical projects and contribute significantly to the development of new medicines within a stimulating research environment in Klerksdorp.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation development of new pharmaceutical products, including solid dosage forms (tablets, capsules), semi-solids, and potentially sterile products.
• Design and execute pre-formulation studies to characterize drug substances and identify suitable excipients.
• Develop and optimize robust formulations ensuring desired release profiles, stability, and bioavailability.
• Investigate and resolve formulation-related challenges during development and scale-up.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for raw materials, in-process controls, and finished products.
• Conduct stability studies according to ICH guidelines and interpret the results.
• Collaborate with analytical development, process development, and manufacturing teams to facilitate technology transfer and commercialization.
• Stay abreast of new technologies, excipients, and drug delivery systems in pharmaceutical formulation.
• Prepare comprehensive development reports, documentation for regulatory submissions, and presentations.
• Mentor junior chemists and provide technical guidance on formulation science.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Proven expertise in developing various dosage forms, with a strong emphasis on solid oral dosage forms.
• In-depth knowledge of excipient functionality, drug-excipient interactions, and drug delivery principles.
• Experience with analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC, dissolution testing, and DSC.
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and regulatory guidelines relevant to formulation development.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically and creatively.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams.
• Experience with scale-up and technology transfer is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, and a robust retirement savings plan. Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and attending scientific conferences are provided. Employees enjoy a stimulating work environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities in Klerksdorp, North West. The company fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, offering significant career growth potential within the pharmaceutical R&D sector. Paid time off and other standard benefits are included.