Senior Pharmaceutical Scientist - Formulation Development

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Conferences access

State-of-the-art facilities

Innovative work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Pharmaceutical Scientist in Midrand to lead formulation development for novel drug candidates. You will steer pre-formulation studies, excipient selection, and dosage form design for effective delivery.

You will collaborate with analytical, manufacturing, and regulatory teams to ensure successful scale-up and regulatory readiness, contributing to clinical and commercial success.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation development, preferably with small molecules or biologics.
• Proven expertise in various dosage forms (oral solids, injectables, topical) and formulation technologies.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques relevant to pharmaceutical characterization (HPLC, DSC, XRPD, dissolution testing).
• Strong understanding of GMP, ICH guidelines, and regulatory requirements for drug product development.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities, strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation development strategy for new drug candidates, including pre-formulation studies, excipient selection, and dosage form design.
• Conduct experiments to optimize formulations using techniques such as solid dispersions, nanoparticles, and controlled-release systems.
• Characterize and evaluate the physical and chemical properties of drug substances and formulated products using advanced analytical methods.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and regulatory submission components related to formulation development.
• Collaborate with analytical, manufacturing, and regulatory affairs teams to ensure successful scale-up and technology transfer.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature, industry trends, and regulatory guidelines in pharmaceutical formulation and drug delivery.

Skills

Formulation development

Analytical techniques

Communication

Problem solving

Education

PhD or Master’s in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Tools

HPLC

DSC

XRPD

Dissolution testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the pharmaceutical sector, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Pharmaceutical Scientist specializing in Formulation Development to join their dynamic team in Midrand . This pivotal role involves leading the design, development, and optimization of novel drug formulations to enhance efficacy, safety, and patient compliance. You will play a critical part in advancing pipeline candidates from early-stage research through to clinical trials and commercialization, working within a collaborative environment that fosters scientific excellence and cutting-edge research. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on drug delivery systems and contribute to groundbreaking pharmaceutical advancements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation development strategy for new drug candidates, including pre-formulation studies, excipient selection, and dosage form design.
• Conduct experiments to optimize formulations using various techniques such as solid dispersions, nanoparticles, and controlled-release systems.
• Characterize and evaluate the physical and chemical properties of drug substances and formulated products using advanced analytical methods.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and regulatory submission components related to formulation development.
• Collaborate with analytical, manufacturing, and regulatory affairs teams to ensure successful scale-up and technology transfer.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature, industry trends, and regulatory guidelines in pharmaceutical formulation and drug delivery.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation development, preferably with small molecules or biologics.
• Proven expertise in various dosage forms (e.g., oral solids, injectables, topical) and formulation technologies.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques relevant to pharmaceutical characterization (e.g., HPLC, DSC, XRPD, dissolution testing).
• Strong understanding of GMP, ICH guidelines, and regulatory requirements for drug product development.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities, strong written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending scientific conferences.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and advanced instrumentation.
• A stimulating work environment with a focus on innovation and scientific rigor in Midrand .