Research and Development Assistant â Pharmaceutical

Recruiter:

Talent Recruitment & Consulting (Pty) Ltd

Job Ref:

JHB000016/MVG

Date posted:

Saturday, January 24, 2026

Location:

Midrand, South Africa

SUMMARY:

Research and Development Assistant – Pharmaceutical

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.

POSITION INFO:

Role Overview

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.

Key Responsibilities

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

Qualifications & Experience

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

Skills & Competencies

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

What the Client Offers

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.

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Research and Development Assistant â Pharmaceutical