Meeting Report

The pharmaceutical industry is a tantalizing but often frustratingly elusive career option for students and postdocs moving out of academia. At a Science Alliance webinar on June 3, 2009, Susi Lee of Merck answered the tricky question of how to get a job as a clinical researcher when these jobs require previous experience. A great track record, with evidence of leadership skills, can be enough to get into clinical research. Courses for clinical research certification are also available. In addition to careers in clinical and basic research, Lee also emphasized the importance of regulatory affairs scientists, who communicate with everyone involved in the drug development process.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written), a strong team orientation, and a detail-oriented personality are essential for positions in the pharmaceutical industry, said Lee. It is also important to be a self-starter, follow through on problems and commitments, have excellent time management skills, and plenty of self-confidence.

Click on the Media tab above to find Lee's presentation. Visit the Science Alliance homepage for more career development resources, and to find out about other upcoming webinars.