Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist - Formulation

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan with employer matching

Conferences & training funding

Paid time off

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg is seeking a Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist to lead formulation development and advance our drug discovery programs. You will design, optimize formulations, and perform preclinical studies to evaluate product performance.

Ideal candidates have a PhD or MSc in pharmaceutical sciences or related field with 5+ years of hands-on experience, strong analytical skills, GMP knowledge, and the ability to mentor junior scientists in a collaborative, hybrid work

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Proven track record in developing various dosage forms and understanding of drug delivery systems.
• Strong knowledge of analytical techniques and solid-state characterization methods.
• Excellent understanding of GMP guidelines and regulatory requirements for drug product development.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific writing.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with pilot-scale manufacturing equipment is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize novel pharmaceutical formulations for various dosage forms (oral, injectable, topical).
• Design and execute preclinical studies to evaluate drug product performance and stability.
• Characterize drug substance and drug product using analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, DSC, TGA, FTIR).
• Investigate and troubleshoot formulation and manufacturing process-related issues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including analytical development, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing.
• Stay updated with latest literature and technological advancements in pharmaceutical sciences.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for internal stakeholders and regulatory submissions.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation through patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a positive team dynamic.

Skills

Formulation development

Analytical techniques

GMP knowledge

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Project collaboration

Communication skills

Mentoring

Education

PhD or MSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences / Chemistry / Chemical Engineering

Tools

HPLC

GC

DSC

TGA

FTIR

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the pharmaceutical sector, is seeking an exceptionally skilled and motivated Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist to join their dynamic team. This role is pivotal in driving innovation within our drug discovery and development pipeline. You will be instrumental in exploring novel formulations and delivery systems to enhance therapeutic efficacy and patient compliance. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. This role is based in the vibrant city of Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a blend of professional growth and a fulfilling lifestyle. We are committed to fostering a culture of scientific excellence and continuous learning, making this an ideal place for ambitious researchers.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize novel pharmaceutical formulations for various dosage forms (oral, injectable, topical).
• Design and execute preclinical studies to evaluate drug product performance and stability.
• Characterize drug substance and drug product using various analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, DSC, TGA, FTIR).
• Investigate and troubleshoot formulation and manufacturing process-related issues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including analytical development, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and technological advancements in pharmaceutical sciences.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for internal stakeholders and regulatory submissions.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation through patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a positive team dynamic.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Proven track record in developing various dosage forms and understanding of drug delivery systems.
• Strong knowledge of analytical techniques and solid-state characterization methods.
• Excellent understanding of GMP guidelines and regulatory requirements for drug product development.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific writing.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with pilot-scale manufacturing equipment is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous annual salary and performance-based bonuses. Employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. A robust retirement savings plan is available, with employer matching contributions. Opportunities for professional development include funding for conferences, workshops, and further education. This position also provides generous paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays. We encourage a healthy work-life balance, and our hybrid work model in Pietermaritzburg allows for flexibility. Join a company that values scientific curiosity and offers a clear path for career advancement within the pharmaceutical industry.