How physicians can find jobs in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries

"I’m now CMO at a private biotech company focused on developing therapies for patients with rare endocrine diseases. We are conducting a trial in the U.S., Europe, and Israel.  I mention this to raise the possibility of travel in pharma/biotech roles.  In most companies, roles are both 'functional' (i.e., clinical development, medical affairs, marketing) and geographic (i.e., global, regional). I’ve had both global roles, being responsible for the entire world strategy for a therapy, and U.S. specific roles where I’ve focused on the U.S. only.  Some roles, like medical science liaison, are smaller areas of focus (state or several states).  I enjoy travel and have been able to do so extensively; however, there are roles where travel is limited.  One of the great things about physician roles – there is a broad range of careers that can be had, and it’s likely there is one to fit your life needs!

There is a need for physicians in pharma/biotech, and physicians need to more exposure to this career path.  I encourage doctors to network; connect with people to learn and make your name known.  My final piece of advice is to understand how all of your past experiences, whether leadership, management, or research translate into supporting your resume for a role in pharma/biotech; do not undersell your experience!"

Nerissa Kreher is a pediatric endocrinologist and founder, The IndustryMDCoach.

She shares her story and discusses her KevinMD article, "How physicians can find jobs in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries." (https://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2020/08/how-physicians-can-find-jobs-in-the-pharmaceutical-and-biotechnology-industries.html)

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