Senior Formulation Scientist

Job description

Senior Formulation Scientist

Based at: NexaBiome Life Sciences Limited, Glasgow

Reporting to: Principal Scientist

Job purpose

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Formulation Scientist to join a growing biotechnology company. This hands-on role will see you supporting the development of topical dosage forms through formulation and analytical characterisation activities, while working closely with both internal R&D teams and outsourced manufacturing teams.

The successful candidate will play a key role in translating research into scalable manufacturing processes, ensuring products meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards. The role will lead formulation design and optimisation projects to support product development from early-stage studies through to technology transfer and commercial manufacture.

This is a key leadership position, playing a vital role in driving innovation, supporting continued business growth.

Key Responsibilities

Support the development of dosage formulations, using advanced materials.

Directing daily formulation operations including decision-making, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of processes.

Oversee project timelines, including formulation technical transfers and scale-up initiatives, to clinical and commercial manufacturing groups.

Lead formulated product development and innovation across cross-functional teams.

Conduct product and material characterisation studies.

Analyse and interpret experimental data, producing technical reports and scientific documentation.

Contribute to product launch activities and managing the full lifecycle of new product formulation projects.

Ensure laboratory equipment is calibrated, maintained and operating effectively. Troubleshoot instruments effectively when required.

Research and evaluate scientific literature, technical information and pharmacopeial references to support development projects.

Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure compliance with quality and data integrity requirements (ALCOA).

Participate in audits, resolve quality deviations, and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

Ensure all work adheres to internal QMS and environmental, health & safety standards.

Establish and maintain technical standards, supported by SOPs, ensuring consistent product quality.

Lead and mentor junior scientists in formulation techniques, experimental design, and data analysis. Conducting 1-2-1s, objective setting/reviews and performance management when required.

Provide technical expertise in meetings and regulatory discussions.

Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical and production issues.

Evaluate raw materials and maintain supplier specifications.

Generate risk assessments and SOPs.

Lead investigations into non-conformances, generating suitable CAPAs.

About You

Degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science or a closely related scientific discipline

Minimum 5 years’ experience within formulation development, advanced materials science or a related pharmaceutical development environment.

Understanding of microbiology principles, including aseptic manufacture.

Experience of advanced materials formulation would be a distinct advantage.

Experience of analytical and material characterisation techniques.

Strong understanding of sterile and non-sterile formulation product development and analytical techniques.

Strong data analysis and scientific reporting skills

Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary fast-paced scientific team.Exposure to GMP-regulated environments and cutting-edge technologies.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Up to 5% pension
• Life assurance
• Option to purchase additional holiday
• Extensive learning and development opportunities
• Access to a wide employee benefit and discount scheme