Senior Formulation Scientist - Solid Dosage Forms

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and growing Pharmaceutical company, is seeking an experienced Senior Formulation Scientist specializing in solid dosage forms. This role is based at our client's state-of-the-art facility in Durban, Kwa Zulu-Natal, ZA . The Senior Formulation Scientist will be responsible for the design, development, and optimization of oral solid dosage formulations, from early-stage development through to commercialization. This position requires a deep understanding of pharmaceutical sciences, including pre-formulation, formulation development, process development, and scale-up.

The ideal candidate will possess strong practical skills in handling various excipients, understanding drug-excipient interactions, and utilizing relevant formulation and manufacturing technologies. We are looking for a results-oriented individual with excellent problem-solving capabilities and a commitment to producing high-quality pharmaceutical products. This is an excellent opportunity to lead formulation development projects and contribute significantly to the company's product pipeline.

• Lead the development of novel and generic oral solid dosage formulations (e.g., tablets, capsules).
• Conduct pre-formulation studies, including drug solubility, stability, and compatibility studies.
• Design and execute formulation development experiments, optimize formulations, and investigate drug-excipient interactions.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for solid dosage forms, including granulation, blending, compression, and coating.
• Perform scale-up activities from laboratory bench to pilot plant and support technology transfer to manufacturing sites.
• Characterize the physical properties of powders and formulated products, utilizing techniques like particle size analysis, rheology, and DSC.
• Prepare comprehensive development reports, CMC documentation, and technical justifications.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including analytical, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to the scientific advancement of the formulation development group.

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical formulation development, with a strong focus on solid dosage forms.
• Proven expertise in formulation design, process development, and scale-up of tablets and capsules.
• In-depth knowledge of pharmaceutical excipients, their functionality, and impact on drug product performance.
• Hands-on experience with pharmaceutical processing equipment (e.g., tablet presses, capsule fillers, granulators, coaters).
• Understanding of regulatory requirements (e.g., ICH, FDA, EMA) related to drug product development.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Durban, Kwa Zulu-Natal, ZA area.

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including annual bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities. Comprehensive medical aid, a generous retirement fund, and ample annual leave are provided. Employees benefit from extensive professional development programs, including specialized training and opportunities to attend international conferences. Our client fosters a collaborative and innovative work environment in Durban , where scientific expertise in formulation is highly valued.

This role offers a significant opportunity for career growth within the dynamic Pharmaceutical industry, contributing to the creation of essential medicines.