Pharmaceutical jobs in South Africa

Department: Research & Development
Reporting to: R&D Manager

Our Client, a well-established pharmaceutical and animal health manufacturing organisation, is seeking two Research and Development Assistants to join their dynamic R&D team. This role offers an excellent opportunity for motivated individuals with a strong laboratory background to contribute to product development and continuous improvement within a regulated manufacturing environment.

The Research and Development Assistant will support the design, execution, and documentation of research projects, formulation development, and analytical testing. Working closely with the R&D Manager and wider teams, the role is critical in ensuring the successful development, testing, and handover of products to production.

• Support the research and development of new pharmaceutical and animal health products
• Assist with formulation development and enhancement of existing products
• Compile complete R&D project files to facilitate handover to production
• Prepare laboratory samples for testing and trials
• Conduct finished product testing (e.g. pH, viscosity, and related analyses)
• Compile Certificates of Conformance (CoCs) for finished products
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation, including Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) for raw materials
• Operate laboratory equipment such as FTIR, viscometers, and related instruments
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, GMP, GLP, and ISO standards
• Maintain R&D laboratory inventory and incoming materials
• Manage retention sample storage and disposal in line with procedures as required
• Download, review, and share temperature logs with relevant stakeholders

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related discipline
• 2-4 years’ experience in a pharmaceutical laboratory environment preferred
• Familiarity with GMP, GLP, and ISO standards
• Experience with analytical techniques such as HPLC, UV-Vis, and dissolution testing is advantageous

• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
• Ability to follow procedures and work independently
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Good computer literacy
• Team-oriented, proactive, and dependable approach

• Opportunity to join a growing pharmaceutical and animal health manufacturer
• Exposure to a wide range of R&D activities and products
• Supportive, collaborative team environment
• Opportunity to contribute directly to product quality and innovation

This role is ideal for candidates who are passionate about research, quality, and continuous improvement and who thrive in a structured laboratory setting.