Principal / Senior Principal Formulation Scientist
Manchester | Office-based (Up to 1-2 days remote possible per week, informal)
We are partnered with an agile, science-led pharmaceutical development consultancy, supporting clients across the full drug development lifecycle. Founded over a decade ago and grown from their ADME/PK roots, the business now delivers integrated development solutions from compound selection through to first-in-human and GMP clinical manufacturing.
The Role
This is a senior, hands‑on scientific position for someone who enjoys variety, ownership, and technical challenge.
* Lead and deliver multiple client‑facing formulation projects (typically 3-5 personally)
* Provide technical formulation expertise across early-stage development through to GMP clinical manufacture
* Act as a trusted scientific advisor to clients, managing expectations and guiding decision‑making
* Design and execute experimental development studies in the lab
* Mentor and coach junior scientists, providing guidance while allowing independence
* Contribute to project management and strategic direction, with scope to evolve into broader leadership over time
What We're Looking For
Essential
* PhD with 6+ years industry experience or MSc with 9+ years industry experience
* At least 3 years' experience leading development projects
* Proven experience across the pharmaceutical development lifecycle, from early stage to GMP
* Strong hands‑on formulation background
* Deep understanding of excipients and formulation material science
* Experience with tech transfer and first GMP batch manufacture
* Confidence interacting directly with clients and managing complex scientific discussions
Highly Desirable
* Experience with more complex modalities or delivery systems
Why Apply?
* Accelerated development: work on challenging, high-impact projects
* Breadth and autonomy: SME environment where scope is wide and progression isn't limited by rigid structures
* Agile, expert‑led culture: decisions are made by scientists, not layers of hierarchy
* Progression opportunity: Principal to Senior Principal and beyond, based on impact and capability
* Collaborative and approachable team: open-door culture, supportive and dynamic
Key Words
* Formulation science, scientist, project manager, management, coaching, mentor, training, subject matter expert, SME, consultant, pharmaceutical development, material science, regulatory, IMPD, IND, excipient, complex, delivery systems
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