Formulations Researcher

About Panther:

Panther is unlocking the tremendous biological powers of our skin to deliver a wide range of shelf-stable treatments. Panther’s precisely engineered microarray patches (MAPs) are focused on: i) Skin Health, treating coloration, wrinkles, scars, wounds, etc.; and ii) Therapeutics, treating ailments along the immunological spectrum, including infectious diseases, cancer, allergies and autoimmune diseases.

Panther’s MAPs are designed to deliver superior efficacy and high levels of usage/adherence, and enable automated data integration across its ecosystem of consumers, providers and treatment developers. Panther’s AI enabled platform provides personalized customer care and accelerated treatment discovery. Via advanced GMP manufacturing, direct-to-consumer distribution and consumer self-application, Panther’s MAPs are affordable, simultaneously enabling universal access and commercial success. Panther is led by accomplished tech, biotech and health professionals

Position Overview:

We’re seeking a Formulation Researcher to join our Formulations & CMC / Engineering team in Pittsburgh. This role offers a unique opportunity to help shape Panther’s next generation of MAP products across both therapeutic and cosmetic applications. You’ll play a hands-on role in developing new formulations, optimizing dissolution and stability characteristics, and scaling innovations from bench to pilot manufacturing.

Working alongside a deeply interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers, you’ll contribute directly to Panther’s growing portfolio of shelf-stable, patient-centric treatments and beauty technologies. This is a chance to combine scientific rigor with creativity, designing formulations that not only perform but also embody Panther’s vision of redefining how medicines and active ingredients are delivered through the skin.

We foster a culture of curiosity, attention to detail, collaboration, and impact. Every member of the team plays an active role in advancing Panther’s mission to make life-changing treatments more accessible worldwide.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and optimize fast-dissolving MAP formulations for both cosmetic and therapeutic applications.

• Conduct MAP characterization studies, including dissolution, mechanical strength, and release profile testing.

• Support development of shelf-stable and scalable formulations, collaborating closely with CMC and engineering teams.

• Partner with cross-functional teams to transition formulations from R&D to pilot- and manufacturing-scale processes.

• Analyze, document, and communicate findings clearly, providing data-driven rationale and recommendations.

• Maintain accurate experimental records and contribute to technical reports, publications, and internal documentation.

• Participate in Panther’s collaborative R&D culture by contributing to brainstorming sessions, project reviews, and product development discussions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or related scientific field (Master’s preferred; Ph.D. highly desirable).

• 3–7 years of hands-on experience in formulation R&D within the pharmaceutical, biotech, or drug delivery industries.

• Strong foundation in transdermal, topical, or solid dosage formulation development.

• Proven ability to design, execute, and interpret experiments independently.

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to clearly present complex scientific concepts and data.

• Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across scientific and engineering disciplines.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Direct experience with dissolvable microneedle array patch (MAP) technology, from research to formulation optimization.

• Knowledge of CMC processes, including stability studies, process scale-up, and regulatory documentation.

• Experience in cosmetic or dermatological formulation development.

• Familiarity with analytical and characterization techniques for solid-state materials.

• Adaptable, motivated, and excited to work in a fast-paced, mission-driven startup environment.

Benefits

• Health Insurance includes Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.

• Equity (Full-time roles only and varies by country).

• In-person company meetups.

• Some travel may be required.

• Virtual events.

• Work with a world-class team in technology and healthcare on the most innovative solutions.

• Unlimited PTO and Paid Company Holidays.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Panther Life Sciences is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital or partnership status, age, national origin, citizenship, veteran or military status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, caregiver status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Compensation Range: $100K - $140K