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, KwaZulu-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.
Key Responsibilities
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.
Requirements
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, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA area.
Benefits
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.
#J-*****-Ljbffr