Principal Formulation Chemist Oxford

Principal Formulation Chemist

Principal Formulation Chemists lead the design and development of pharmaceutical formulations that optimize the delivery, stability, and bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). They oversee pre-formulation studies, develop new drug delivery systems, and guide products through scale-up and tech transfer.

Key responsibilities:

• Designing dosage forms – Including tablets, capsules, suspensions, injectables, or inhalables tailored to the physicochemical properties of the API.

• Conducting compatibility and stability studies – Using analytical methods like HPLC, DSC, and particle sizing to evaluate formulation performance over time.

• Guiding scale-up and GMP manufacturing – Working with process engineers and quality teams to ensure reproducibility and regulatory readiness.

• Leading formulation strategy – Including QbD approaches, DoE experimental planning, and documentation for regulatory submissions (e.g. IND, NDA, MA).

• Mentoring formulation scientists – Providing scientific and strategic leadership to support R&D milestones and client projects.

This role typically requires experience with excipients, granulation, lyophilization, and other pharmaceutical manufacturing techniques, along with strong knowledge of ICH, FDA, and EMA expectations.​

Oxford, Oxfordshire

Oxford, known as “The City of Dreaming Spires”, is a beautiful and historic city in southeast England approximately 60 miles from London, 65 from Birmingham, 70 from Birmingham and 25 from Reading.   Oxford University, founded in the 12th century, is the oldest university in the English-speaking world and has frequently been ranked as the top university in the world.  The Oxford Science Park, which is owned and managed by Magdalen College, is home to many science and technology businesses and Oxford enjoys a growing reputation as a centre of digital innovation.  The stunning architecture, world class museums and attractive riverside setting make Oxford a major destination for tourists from around the world and a popular location for films and TV series.

Famous people born in Oxford:  Hugh Laurie, Actor and Tim Henman, tennis player

Oxford is a major site for biotechnology, rare disease, ATMP, cell therapy, gene therapy and pharmaceutical development. It houses a number of university spin-out businesses, start-up biotechs and other organisations attracting seed investment. If you are looking for career opportunities in life sciences within the Oxford area, call the Next Phase Recruitment team on 01403 216216.