Research Pharmacist

Job Title : Research Pharmacist
Department : Research Department
Reports to : Responsible Pharmacist
Location : Ndevana Community Research Site
Annual salary range : R874,711 – R945,313

(Please note that the salary range mentioned is indicative only. The offer to the successful candidate will be determined within this salary range, based on the candidate’s relevant qualifications and experience).

Purpose of the position:
To support all pharmacy-related activities for clinical trials, including medication preparation,
dispensing, inventory control, and compliance with regulatory and sponsor requirements. This role
ensures investigational and non-investigational products are managed in line with protocol and
ethical guidelines under the oversight of the Responsible Pharmacist.

Scope of work:

• Regulatory compliance & SOP management:
  o Ensure all pharmacy operations comply with SAHPRA, DoH, SAPC, GCP, and internal
  SOPs.
  o Maintain required documentation for audits, inspections, and monitors.
  o Adhere to study-specific blinding and randomization procedures.
  o Contribute to reviewing and updating pharmacy SOPs and plans.
• Investigational Product (IP) & Non-study drug management:
  o Maintain accurate stock levels of IP and non-study medications.
  o Procure, store, and manage both IPs and standard treatment drugs under appropriate
  conditions.
  o Dispense investigational and non-investigational products in line with trial protocols and
  medical guidelines.
  o Label IPs according to protocol prior to dispensing.
  o Ensure proper handling of controlled substances and high-risk medications.
  o Receive, reconcile, and manage returns of used/unused IPs.
  o Oversee IP and non-IP disposal following sponsor and regulatory requirements.
• Clinical support and patient care
  o Provide medication counselling and education to study participants.
  o Monitor and report adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and potential drug interactions.
  o Collaborate with clinical teams to ensure patient safety and adherence.
  o Support queries related to medication administration and protocols.
• Operations and technical maintenance:
  o Calibrate and maintain temperature monitoring devices and pharmacy equipment.
  o Ensure proper storage of all medications until accountability is confirmed by the sponsor
  or monitor.
  o Conduct temperature excursions investigations and report any deviations.

Qualifications and registration:

• Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) degree (essential).
• Registered with the South African Pharmacy Council (essential).
• Certification in immunization and injection techniques (essential).
• Valid GCP Certification (advantageous).

Experience:

• 3 – 5 years working as a qualified pharmacist in the public, private, research, or NGO sectors.
• Minimum 1 year experience working in clinical trials.
• Experience in managing investigational products (IP), regulatory compliance, and protocol
  adherence.
• Experience in dispensing medications, patient counseling, and ensuring proper drug storage
  and inventory control.

Additional requirements:

• Proficiency in reading, speaking, and writing English.
• Proficiency in reading, speaking, and writing Xhosa (advantageous).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Willingness to work reasonable flexible hours when required, in accordance with the BCEA.

Application process:
Interested candidates should apply by accessing the following link:
https://vacancies.fpdsiu.co.za/

Closing date for applications:
7 August 2025 at 16h00

The Foundation for Professional Development fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace. We invite
and encourage qualified candidates with disabilities to apply for positions within our organisation.
In line with the company’s Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to suitably qualified
male candidates from designated groups.

Please note:
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. If you have not been contacted within four weeks
after the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
The company reserves the right not to make an appointment.

We wish you all the best with your applications