Senior Scientist - Formulation Development; R&D

Job Type

Full Time

Nivagen Pharmaceuticals Inc., Sacramento, CA

Senior Scientist - Formulation Development

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Scientist to join our Formulation Development team. The successful candidate will play a critical role in the development and optimization of drug formulations from early-stage research through commercialization. This position requires a deep understanding of formulation principles, a strong scientific background, and a proven track record of success in the pharmaceutical industry.

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of complex injectable and sterile dosage forms.
• Develop and implement robust formulation development strategies aligned with regulatory guidelines (e.g., Quality by Design, FDA).
• Apply scientific fundamentals and creative problem‑solving skills to solve complex technical issues.
• Conduct rigorous experimental design studies (e.g., factorial design) to achieve project objectives.
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, including Technical Services, Operations, and Regulatory Affairs.
• Define scope, timeline, and resource needs of functional activities and keep team on schedule.
• Participate in evaluation of new product opportunities.
• Ensure timely and high‑quality documentation for regulatory submissions.
• Stay updated with all FDA and regulatory requirements/guidelines.
• Provide mentorship and leadership to team members.
• Stay up to date with the latest scientific advancements in formulation development and applying new technologies to improve product performance.
• Author and review technical reports, protocols, and regulatory documents.
• Additional duties and assignments as needed.

Education / Experience

• Ph.D. or Postgraduate degree in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 3+ years of hands‑on experience in sterile/Injectable pharmaceutical formulation development.
• Strong understanding of formulation principles, excipients, and drug delivery systems.
• Hands‑on experience with various formulation techniques and equipment.
• Proven track record of successful formulation development and commercialization.
• Experience with statistical design of experiments (DOE) and data analysis.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proven track record of successful formulation development for various sterile dosage forms.
• Strong leadership, project management, and organizational skills.
• Expertise in complex injectable and sterile dosage form development.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and problem‑solving.

Requirements

• Must live in or be willing to move to the Sacramento Metropolitan Region (approximately 40 miles in radius).

• Pay range $70,000-$90,000 per Year
• Yearly bonus eligibility
• Benefits:
  Nivagen offers a wide variety of benefits and programs to support health and well‑being
• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• Paid time off plan
• 401k savings plan

Nivagen to afford equal opportunity for employment to all individuals regardless of race, color, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, history of disability, ancestry, citizenship status, political affiliation, religion, gender, transgender, gender identity, marital status, status as a parent, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information or other factors prohibited by law, and to prohibit harassment or retaliation based on any of these factors.