Head - Material Science, R&D, Central, ACG Capsules

Objective:

Conduct research to identify and tap new or unknown polymers that fulfil the characteristics required for capsule shell formation

Primary Responsibilities:

Functional

New Polymer Development

1. Scans the environment and modifies the readily available polymers to suit the capsule forming application
2. Identify the attributes which are required for capsule formation as per specific product requirements
3. Identify new polymers/molecules that are suitable for capsule formation as per identified attributes.
4. Identify potential combinations / augmentation with other materials for the new polymers
5. Filter the identified polymers which can comply with pharmaceutical / nutraceutical regulatory requirements and industry standards
6. Develop / tailor testing mechanism for new polymers as required
7. Conduct tests on the identified new polymers within the lab set up for its shell forming ability
8. Modify the process parameters (if required) in order to use the new polymer to get the desired attributes
9. Post testing for shell formation ability, conduct the lab tests and develop capsules. Conduct preliminary trials to test dissolution, disintegration, moisture and appearance stability, and accelerated stability
10. Work jointly with New Product Engineering Team to develop suitable processes in order to transfer the final polymer from the lab machines to the pilot machine for pilot testing
11. Work jointly with New Product Engineering Team to develop a detailed plan to roll over (to MSAT) the new polymer/molecule identified on the main machine to commence the commercial production

Internal process

1. Develop quality plan and supplier qualification criteria for the new polymer
2. Support SCM and QA as required in developing vendors / suppliers for the new polymers
3. Prepare specifications sheet for every new polymer
4. Document all test methods and results, and prepare the testing manual
5. Document all test reports and analysis (including for unsuccessful polymers)

People development

1. Take overall responsibility for people development initiatives and building up in-house capabilities for the employees in the team
2. Drive a performance driven culture in the team by timely monitoring, review of performance parameters and feedback to the team members
3. Contribute towards development of talent of the team by providing subordinates with adequate exposure and growth opportunities to enable readiness for higher roles
4. Actively participate in HR initiatives to drive overall employee engagement and motivation