Formulation Chemist

Join to apply for the Formulation Chemist role at Opella.

Location: Virginia, Brisbane (Onsite Daily)

Opella is the self-care challenger with the purest and third-largest portfolio in the Over-The-Counter (OTC) & Vitamins, Minerals & Supplements (VMS) market globally. Our mission is to bring health in people's hands by making self-care as simple as it should be for over half a billion consumers worldwide. We have 100+ loved brands, an 11,000-strong global team, 13 best-in-class manufacturing sites, and four specialized science and innovation development centers. Headquartered in France, Opella is the proud maker of many well-known brands, including Natures Own, Ostelin, Cenovis, Telfast, Bisolvon and Buscopan. We are B Corp certified and active in the journey towards healthier people and planet.

Find out more about our mission to bring health in your hands at www.opella.com.

The Formulation Chemist will play a key role in creating new products and improving existing ones by conducting research, experiments, and testing to ensure high-quality and effective formulations. This role requires technical knowledge in various galenic forms, creativity, digital experience and collaborative skills.

• Develop and optimise pharmaceutical/nutraceutical formulations for new and existing products, including tablets, capsules, softgels, effervescents, and other dosage forms.
• Develop lab-scale prototypes applying GMPs in place and conduct analytical & sensory tests. Apply statistical methods and design of experiments to enhance product development efficiency and learning. Leverage digital tools to document formulas and instructions.
• Evaluate new raw materials for suitability, conduct stability studies to assess the shelf-life and performance of formulations under different conditions according to ICH guidelines. This involves preparing stability protocols, samples and Smartsheet.
• Participate in the scale-up process from laboratory to pilot and production scale, ensuring formulations are optimised for manufacturing. This also includes training manufacturing staff and providing technical support.
• Prepare and maintain accurate documentation, including experimental records, reports, and protocols. Report project outcomes, share learnings, participate in cross-functional teams, and provide insights and data to guide decisions and innovations.
• Troubleshoot formulation issues and identify potential solutions to improve product performance. Write master formula documents for registration, manufacturing instructions and bill of materials for commercial production.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including brand & innovation, project management, analytical, science, quality, sustainability and manufacturing to ensure products meet regulatory & sustainability requirements and quality standards and projects meet timing and budget targets.
• Keep abreast of current industry trends, scientific literature, and regulatory guidelines to inform formulation development. Maintain a strong interest in competitor activities and overall market trends, translating insights into technically feasible solutions.
• Maintain a clean and safe laboratory environment, adhering to all safety protocols and best practices.

• Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.

• A proven track record in developing product formulations and processes for nutraceutical products, preferably with at least 3 years of experience.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisations (CDMOs/CMOs), including presenting complex scientific data and technical topics to diverse stakeholders.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Highly organised with a methodical approach to managing multiple priorities, ensuring accuracy and quality in all deliverables.
• Proven problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities, with a sharp analytical mindset and keen attention to detail.
• Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to work independently and a natural curiosity to drive continuous improvement.
• Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills, with a strong team orientation and a commitment to achieving successful outcomes.
• Experience working effectively in multi-disciplinary team environments.
• Adaptable, resilient, and innovative thinker, with the agility to navigate complex NPD projects.

• Skilled in interpreting and critically evaluating scientific data, with the ability to provide strategic technical guidance and resolve complex issues.
• Advanced statistical analysis and experimental design capabilities, with strong digital literacy.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks such as TGA, KFDA, and FSANZ is highly desirable.
• Committed to sustainability and familiarity with science-based product superiority principles.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint).

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
• Industries: Retail Health and Personal Care Products

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