I studied Bio-Chemistry at University and when I finished I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do. Having enjoyed the practical application of the knowledge I learnt, I was tempted to go on and train either as a pharmacist or a doctor. However, the theoretical side of my studies had interested me too. Considering the ethical and practical applications of drugs and products seemed like a big challenge and something I could really get my teeth into. So, I went into the pharmaceutical industry and have never looked back.
The pharmaceutical industry is at the heart of medical developments. Various branches within it work on developing, making and selling new drugs. Within the industry, there are two main sectors, research and development (R&D) and manufacturing. Around 67,000 people are employed in this industry within the UK alone.
Many of the professionals working within the industry are scientific specialists, such as pharmacists, chemists and biologists. There are other roles requiring knowledge of business practices or engineering expertise, which require lawyers, IT technicians, engineers, Public Relations specialists and Human Resources workers.
Something I was unaware of until I started working in pharmaceuticals is that it takes an astonishing 12 and a half years or so to get a new medicine through all the required tests in order for it to be available to the general public. The sheer volume of organisation required for such a project is awe-inspiring. Hundreds of people are involved in this process and lengthy trials are undertaken. Pharmaceutical professionals wish to ensure that the drug will work for the reasons it is intended for and that it will be safe for people to take.
Working in the pharmaceutical industry requires many different skills. Firstly, you will need to have a solid academic grounding in a scientific discipline. Then you should also have a desire to keep abreast of recent developments within the pharmaceutical industry – a desire for lifelong learning is a must. Once in a role within the industry, whether you oversee clinical trials, develop new drugs or manage the marketing of said drugs, you will need to have a clear skill set. Most importantly, being able to communicate well is essential. Then you should be happy to negotiate and work as part of a large team. Lastly, you must have the confidence to talk to a wide range of people. Your work may involve presenting ideas to a panel of experts, including government officials and doctors.
My career has so far been challenging and rewarding. Whether I am working on the early stages of a new medicine, or seeing the finished product go out to the public, I enjoy my work. Where else would you be able to have such a direct impact on the wellbeing of an entire nation? It hasn’t been easy, but I would definitely recommend looking into this profession.
Author Bio:
Elizabeth Jane has worked in the pharmaceutical company for a number of years and is now looking into sourcing employees for ProClinical Recruitment.
