PhD Graduates at Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies

Estimated Read time: 1 minute

New section

A wide range of career opportunities exists in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, including research and development, clinical trials, quality assurance and control, regulatory affairs, and marketing and sales.

New section

New section

 

Drug discovery research within the industry involves working on the discovery or development of new drug compounds, and may include various stages from initial chemical formulation to end stage clinical research. Entry level positions may be available with or without postdoctoral experience, with companies ranging from small start-ups to large global companies.

Some pharmaceutical companies and contract research organizations look for PhD scientists to help set up, monitor, and oversee clinical trials. Positions in quality assurance and control involve planning and quality control of scientific manufacturing plants and products, as well as design, development, and implementation of systems and procedures in accordance with appropriate guidelines and legislation.

Regulatory affairs professionals provide a communications link between companies and regulatory agencies such as FDA, helping their company keep up and comply with the increasing scope and complexity of regulations in the United States and abroad.

There is also a demand for life science graduates in the sales departments of larger companies such as pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device companies, selling to health care providers and research institutions.

Learn More

Careers in Pharmaceuticals

Careers in Biotechnology

Careers in Regulatory Affairs

New section

Engage with Your Peers
Aspiring Docs Diaries

A blog written by pre-meds, medical students, and residents about their experiences as they work towards becoming physicians.

Read Aspiring Docs Diaries
Resources for First-Generation Med School Students

The resources in this online toolkit may be useful for students, medical school professionals, and families of students who seek to support, guide, and advocate for first-generation students as they navigate through medical training.

Learn More
The AAMC Wants to Hear From You!

Join an upcoming opportunity to add your voice to conversations around the value of services and resources the AAMC delivers to learners like you.

Learn More
The Official Guide to Medical School Admissions

The Official Guide to Medical School Admissions: How to Prepare for and Apply to Medical School contains accurate and trusted information on medical school admissions.

Access the Guide
Subscribe: Premed Navigator

Get important information, resources, and tips to help you on your path to medical school—delivered right to your inbox each month.

Learn More