The globalized nature of the pharmaceutical industry has made it possible for US drug companies to thrive. Besides making a fortune, pharmaceutical companies have done a lot to enhance the quality of life. The most visible marker is discovering, developing and marketing branded and generic medications and treatment devices to the patients most in need.
To drive its ambitious agenda, the pharmaceutical industry constantly requires a skillful workforce. Professionals working in the multi-billion-dollar sector are often utilized in areas like patenting, clinical trials, manufacturing, scientific writing and sales and marketing. For students and other aspiring professionals, there are many solid careers to choose from. According to Monster.com, the 5 top careers in the pharmaceutical industry worth considering are:
1. Research and development manager
Cutting-edge research and innovation aims to improve people’s quality of life and overall well-being. At the center of the coordination efforts are research and development managers. A research and development manager working in the pharmaceutical industry is expected to perform the following tasks: research, personnel management, data control and project management. Because of the scale of responsibilities bestowed on them, a research and development manager can expect an average salary of about $101,000 annually according to PayScale.
2. Project manager
Project managers carry out different tasks depending on responsibilities and industry. In the pharmaceutical industry, a professional working in this position is required to oversee the development and release of new medicines and medical equipment’s. To realize this goal, the project manager must work closely with teams consisting of clinical researchers, engineers and doctors. The personnel are also required to control the budget and ensure product development conforms to the assigned pattern and completion timelines. Project managers in the highly diverse pharmaceutical industry can expect a salary ranging between $54,600 to $138,400 annually.
3. Quality manager
The quality manager role is very sensitive as it entails product quality control. Quality assessment stages are necessary in ensuring the final product does not pose any harm or adverse effects to the targeted populace and environment. Besides instituting safety testing and observing standards, the quality manager also investigates rising concerns, delivers reports and manages records. A professional working in the position can expect a salary of $83,700 annually.
4. Laboratory analyst
A laboratory analyst plays a critical role in the extensive medical product delivery chain. The analyst is responsible for testing the chemical and physical compositions of various samples and new products. The information obtained from the testing can be used to spot errors along with underlying compromises on product quality. Because of the strict controls and standards that have been set up to regulate the industry, persons who serve as laboratory analysts should always be acutely aware of the various state and federal regulations governing the industry.
5. Sales representative
Sales representatives are tasked with selling an assortment of medical products. A person working in the position is also required to learn and appreciate the company products and build a working relationship with clients and the parties involved in the distribution. Most sales representatives work in the front office, where they deal directly with clients. According to PayScale, the annual salary range for a pharmaceutical sales representative is between $50,400 to $110,500.
Career advancement opportunities
Professionals interested in advancing their skills in the pharmaceutical industry have plenty of good reasons to do so. For pharmacology graduates, one can choose to work as a biomedical scientist, clinical research associate, medicinal chemist and pharmacologist and so on. A sizable number of pharmacology graduates in the US are employed in various health and research institutions, but many others have chosen to pursue further studies or work while studying.
According to the UK Graduate Prospects career portal, the most promising fields of advancement for pharmacology graduates include biochemistry, neuroscience, molecular biology and pharmacology. With a research PhD in any of these areas, a professional is well able to develop advanced skills in solving complex scientific problems. A lot is also expected from them in terms of technical research, laboratory bodywork and communication skills.
Fast rising brand in US drug research and development
Vilvet Pharmaceutical is a leading brand in the burgeoning US pharmaceutical industry. The Philadelphia based drug company is fully committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and technology in drug development and testing. The process entails developing products following the latest scientific discoveries and breakthrough research.
The firm regularly partners with other pharmaceutical companies, research institutions and universities to carry out drug research and clinical trials. As part of internal security measures, Vilvet Pharmaceutical ensures its drug testing, production and transfer practices are conducted in the safest and the most conducive environment.