I'm a science graduate wanting a career in drug research
Contributions by two science graduates from University of Warwick and University of Hertfordshire who now function as Clinical Data Managers within a Pharmaceutical Company for CSL.
Alex Pitchers, a Science graduate from University of Warwick, writes:
"The diversity of jobs within the Pharma and Biotech industry is vast and can provide a challenging career for any graduate. The path from drug discovery in the lab through to approval for use is a long process fraught with many obstacles. The wide range of departments and expertise involved in each step of the drug development process offers a variety of opportunities to fit potential candidates from many different backgrounds.
Criteria for both lab and non-lab positions typically look for a good Life Science degree or higher and although industry experience is preferred, it is not always essential. A placement year as part of your degree or a master's course would not only help your chances of securing a job but more importantly help you realise the job roles that suit your skill set. Most importantly, you should research the roles that interest you as thoroughly as possible. The University resources available to you through your department and career advisors are not going to be there forever so make the most of them before it is too late. There is also no better time to start building up your network of contacts in the industry as they will be a valuable source of information when those important questions begin to flow.
As far as getting 'the foot in the door' make sure you pursue all available avenues. One speculative letter to head office is not going to cut it in a competitive environment. Consider the fact that many jobs go unadvertised and use your contacts, friends and family to discover potential vacancies. Bear in mind that many companies utilise recruitment agencies and job search websites and so looking on the Pharma company homepage may not help you find that job. Perhaps your first job won't be with a leading Pharma but with one of the many Contract Research Organisations (CROs) that are used for pre-clinical and clinical trial work or maybe you will look towards the regulatory bodies such as the National Institute of Clinical Excellence and the European Medicines Agency.
No matter which route you eventually take into the industry you will soon find that the overlaps and collaborations with different departments lead to opportunities to branch out and develop into different roles that you may not have previously considered."
A Science graduate from University of Hertfordshire writes:
"A career in the Pharmaceutical industry is an exciting prospect for all graduates and if a pathway toward drug development is an ambition, a Life Science degree is especially beneficial. The Pharma industry is a highly competitive one and therefore, ensuring you begin your job search at an early stage will be highly advantageous.
Ensure you take advantage of the resources which are supplied by your University as well as conducting your own research into suitable jobs which match your strengths and skills. Work experience within the industry is also very valuable and so completing a placement year during your degree would be a positive step. The placement may even lead to a job offer once you have completed your studies and allows you to get a feel for the industry and make you aware of the different career options available within drug development.
There are many different career paths within drug development, such as; target discovery, pre-clinical development, data management and regulatory/medical affairs to name but a few. An advantage of choosing the drug development route is that you do not immediately become type-cast to one role, for example, an initial role within data management could help you to develop skills which allow you to transfer to a job within drug safety, perhaps. This industry will offer job progression as well as educational development through training courses specifically tailored toward Pharma employees.
Therefore, if you would like to be part of a team which researches and develops innovative medicines for millions of people worldwide, the Pharmaceutical industry is for you."