Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Jobs in the 21st Century

Recently, I read a magazine article that focused on job opportunities in two life sciences: biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. Both fields offer various positions and are expected to grow in the future, and may lead to advancement in the workplace. With the right education, training, and job search method, you can have a chance to secure an entry level job in either of these fields.

According to the Biotechnology Industry Organization, biotechnology is defined as the use of cellular and molecular processes to solve problems or make products. I can’t imagine how many lives have been affected in a positive way by this field, which has created over 200 therapies and vaccines to treat medical conditions such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS. In addition, more than 400 biotech drug products and vaccines have been produced and are found in clinical trials with the hope of treating diseases like heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Pharmaceuticals deal with the production of drugs to be distributed in the healthcare marketplace. These products are developed through the use of plant and chemical compounds, as opposed to biotech products, which are developed biologically.
The type of education and training you will need in biotechnology or pharmaceuticals will depend on the job you apply for. Generally speaking, however, the most basic requirement for candidates is an undergraduate degree in a science field, such as biology or chemistry. For those candidates who want more than entry level jobs, pursuing master’s degrees in these fields may lead to advancement. If you don’t have a degree in a scientific area, you may need more training beyond your related field of study (ex.- computer science, engineering, or business majors).
In your job search in biotechnology or pharmaceuticals, there are some tips you should consider. 1) Research beyond a particular position to learn how a company might be developing or repositioning itself. 2) Research domestic and international industry trends; you can use this knowledge to show a potential employer that you’ve done your homework, if you land an interview down the road. 3) Network through biotechnology state associations or local pharmaceutical societies, and attend related conferences to develop relationships with industry insiders. 4) Explore internship opportunities in biotechnology or pharmaceuticals to gain experience.
Here are some jobs candidates may want to consider in biotechnology:
Research Scientists – Design and conduct experiments, and write up results for publication
Clinical Research Physicians – Develop and implement plans for pushing experimental drugs through pre-approval clinical trials
Marketing Analysts – Coordinate and implement campaigns for specific drugs, audiences, or both
Sales Representatives – Work with physicians, hospitals, HMOs, and other medical institutions to keep healthcare professionals abreast of the company’s line of products
Pharmaceutical postions to watch include research and engineering, and product support.
If you’re interested in a career in life sciences, then biotechnology and pharmaceuticals have opportunities available. In the 21st Century, these fields are in demand and may offer advancement in their respective environments.
Information provided by Brittany Hutson.
Source
Black Enterprise Magazine – May 2010