At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver exciting formulation projects while mentoring junior scientists.
- Company: Agile, science-led pharmaceutical consultancy with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Flexible remote work, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with clear progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in pharmaceutical science and enjoy diverse challenges.
- Qualifications: PhD or MSc with extensive industry experience in formulation science.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
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.
We are now looking for an experienced Principal or Senior Principal Formulation Scientist to play a key technical role in a growing formulation team.
The Role
This is a senior, hands-on scientific position for someone who enjoys variety, ownership, and technical challenge. You will:
- 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
If you’re passionate about pharmaceutical science, enjoy non-routine problem-solving, and want to make a tangible impact in a fast-paced consultancy environment, we’d love to hear from you.
Locations
Principal / Senior Principal Formulation Scientist in Cheshire, Warrington employer: RBW Consulting
Contact Detail:
RBW Consulting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal / Senior Principal Formulation Scientist in Cheshire, Warrington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the pharmaceutical industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your hands-on experience in formulation science. We recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your achievements.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings! Reach out directly to companies you admire, like ours, and express your interest. A proactive approach can set you apart from other candidates and show your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your expertise through online platforms or blogs. Share insights about formulation science and project management. This not only builds your personal brand but also demonstrates your passion and knowledge to potential employers.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal / Senior Principal Formulation Scientist in Cheshire, Warrington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your hands-on formulation background and any leadership roles you've had in development projects. We want to see how you fit into our agile, science-led culture!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about pharmaceutical science and how your experience aligns with the role. Don’t forget to mention your ability to mentor and coach junior scientists, as that’s a key part of the position.
Showcase Your Project Experience: In your application, be sure to detail the formulation projects you've led. We’re looking for someone who can manage multiple client-facing projects, so give us examples of how you've successfully navigated complex scientific discussions and client interactions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our own platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at RBW Consulting
✨Know Your Formulation Science
Brush up on your formulation science knowledge, especially around excipients and material science. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've led and the challenges you faced. This will show your depth of understanding and hands-on experience.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've mentored junior scientists or led development projects. Highlight your ability to manage client expectations and guide decision-making, as this role requires strong leadership in a collaborative environment.
✨Be Client-Focused
Since this position involves direct interaction with clients, think about how you can demonstrate your confidence in managing complex scientific discussions. Prepare to share experiences where you successfully navigated client relationships and delivered results.
✨Emphasise Your Problem-Solving Abilities
This role is all about tackling non-routine problems. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've approached challenges in formulation projects. Show your passion for pharmaceutical science and your ability to think critically under pressure.