Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist - Formulation Development

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist to lead pre-formulation and formulation development at our Pietermaritzburg site. You will drive drug formulation strategies, execution, and regulatory documentation while mentoring junior scientists.

The role focuses on NCEs and complex generics, with emphasis on cross-functional collaboration, technology transfer, and staying ahead of regulatory expectations. A strong publication and IP mindset is valued.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 5–7 years of relevant experience in pharmaceutical formulation development, with NCEs or complex generics.
• Strong understanding of drug delivery systems, dosage form design, and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, execution, and interpretation of pre-formulation studies and formulation development of various dosage forms.
• Develop and optimize stable, bioavailable, and manufacturable drug formulations.
• Collaborate with analytical, process development, and manufacturing teams for technology transfer.

Skills

Problem solving

Critical thinking

Analytical

Project management

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

HPLC

DSC

TGA

XRPD

Education

Ph.D./M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field

Tools

HPLC

DSC

TGA

XRPD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in pharmaceutical development, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist to join their dynamic team in **Pietermaritzburg**. This role is integral to the advancement of novel drug formulations, focusing on the development and optimization of new chemical entities (NCEs) and generic drug products. The successful candidate will contribute to projects from early-stage research through to clinical trial readiness, playing a pivotal role in bringing life-changing medicines to market. This position offers a stimulating work environment where scientific rigor and innovation are paramount, with opportunities for professional growth and development within a globally recognized organization. You will be part of a collaborative team dedicated to achieving excellence in pharmaceutical science and contributing to better patient outcomes. The **Pietermaritzburg** facility is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and research equipment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, execution, and interpretation of pre-formulation studies and formulation development of various dosage forms (e.g., oral solids, liquids, injectables).
• Develop and optimize stable, bioavailable, and manufacturable drug formulations, ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines.
• Conduct physicochemical characterization of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and excipients.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and identify root causes for deviations.
• Collaborate closely with analytical development, process development, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, documentation for regulatory submissions (e.g., IND, NDA), and presentations.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists, fostering a culture of scientific curiosity and continuous improvement.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature, regulatory requirements, and industry trends in formulation science.
• Manage project timelines and resources effectively to meet company objectives.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation through novel formulation approaches.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of relevant experience in pharmaceutical formulation development, with a strong track record in NCEs or complex generics.
• In-depth understanding of drug delivery systems, dosage form design, and manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in various analytical techniques used for characterization (e.g., HPLC, DSC, TGA, XRPD).
• Familiarity with cGMP and regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, EMA).
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
• Strong project management and organizational abilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Experience with preclinical and clinical formulation development is highly desirable.
• Prior experience in **Pietermaritzburg** or a similar pharmaceutical hub is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits including medical aid, a retirement fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, attendance at international conferences, and career advancement are provided.
• The company fosters a supportive and innovative work environment, emphasizing work-life balance.
• Employees have access to cutting-edge research facilities and collaborative projects within the **Pharmaceutical** sector.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for highly qualified candidates seeking to relocate to **Pietermaritzburg**, KwaZulu-Natal.

Join a team that values scientific integrity and makes a tangible impact on global health.