Lead Formulation Scientist - Pharmaceuticals

About the Role

Our client seeks an accomplished Lead Formulation Scientist to direct and manage formulation development activities for novel pharmaceutical products in Cape Town . This senior position is critical to translating promising drug candidates into stable, effective, and manufacturable dosage forms. You will oversee the entire formulation lifecycle, from early-stage feasibility studies to late-stage process development and technology transfer. The ideal candidate will bring extensive expertise in various dosage forms, a strong understanding of pharmaceutical materials science, and proven leadership capabilities to guide a team of scientists and technicians in a challenging yet rewarding research environment.

• Lead the development of innovative and robust dosage form formulations for various routes of administration (e.g., oral, injectable, topical).
• Design and execute experimental plans for pre-formulation studies, stability testing, and dissolution profiling.
• Oversee the scale-up and technology transfer of formulated products from laboratory to manufacturing scale.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of formulation scientists and technicians.
• Ensure all formulation activities comply with cGMP , regulatory guidelines, and internal quality standards.
• Collaborate with analytical development, process engineering, and regulatory affairs teams to ensure successful product development.

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Pharmaceutics, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Proven expertise in developing various dosage forms, including solid dosage forms, sterile injectables, and controlled-release systems.
• In-depth knowledge of material science, excipient compatibility, and drug delivery technologies.
• Experience with laboratory equipment used in formulation development and characterization.
• Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Highly competitive salary and performance bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement benefits package.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• Access to advanced formulation technologies and state-of-the-art laboratories in Cape Town .
• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership development within a leading pharmaceutical company.