In training, you may only have considered being an NHS or private sector physician, as little exposure to industry careers is offered in medical schools. However, your skills, training and medical knowledge are invaluable in the pharmaceutical industry.
Pharmaceutical companies invest huge amounts of time and money into the research, development, manufacturing and marketing of new medicines. From laboratory to clinic, the drug development process considers how the medicine affects whole body physiology, the practical aspects of delivering the medicine to patients, and the necessary interactions with regulatory authorities. Pharmaceutical physicians are involved across the whole process of drug development, and are employed in medical and regulatory affairs roles, in clinical research positions, and as independent consultants.
It is, therefore, no exaggeration to suggest that physicians in industry may impact more patient lives, and have more influence over the way a medicine will be used, than an individual prescribing doctor. Whilst training as a doctor, you will have gained a broad knowledge and skills base necessary to aid the transition of medicines from laboratory to clinic. This knowledge will help you provide an essential service to the pharmaceutical industry, where there is a need for pharmaceutical physicians.
Pharmaceutical Careers Resources for Physicians:
- Association for the British Pharmaceutical Industry, ABPI
An Insight into Pharmaceutical Careers for Doctors Booklet - The Faculty of Pharmaceutical Medicine, FPM
Pharmaceutical Medicine Page
Careers in Pharmaceutical Medicine Booklet
Pharmaceutical Medicine Specialty Training Booklet - National Health Service, NHS Careers
Pharmaceutical Medicine - Royal College of Physicians, RCP
Specialty Spotlight - Pharmaceutical Medicine
Pharmaceutical Physician Careers Information - British Medical Association, BMA
BMJ Careers Fair