Science & pharmaceuticals

Fancy yourself as a bit of an Einstein? Then read on…

If you want to push forward the boundaries of science and technology then this is the sector for you! Whether you are working towards eradicating cancer, producing longer lasting electricity supplies or looking for life forms on Mars, working in the science, pharma and research sector promises to be a fascinating career. Most science based roles normally have set areas to work in such as design, research, manufacturing and testing. There is great scope within these boundaries to work in a wide variety of industries including agriculture, food, pharmaceuticals, energy and transport.

What kind of work can I do?

The science sector is so vast that you could find yourself doing … well literally anything! Popular roles include:

  • Product and process development
  • Research and development
  • Medical and analytical chemistry
  • In vivo sciences
  • Clinical research
  • Manufacturing
  • Teaching
  • Writing and editing
  • Management and administration
  • Consultancy
  • Data management
  • IT support
  • HR
  • Marketing
  • Logistics
  • Sales

You’re typical day will vary according to your role. You might find yourself working in a laboratory, office, warehouse, on the factory floor or outdoors. 

What are employers looking for?

To embark on a career in Science and Research you will generally need a 2.1 in an area related to the subject you want to specialise in. You will normally also be required to have at least 5 GCSEs including Science, Maths and English and 2 A levels. Some employers may also require you to have further study on top, this may be a MSc or PHd, however a lot of companies will aid your further study (both financially and physically).

Joining science fellowships and professional bodies which are registered with the Science Council will also give you the edge over other candidates.

Is this the right career for you?

If you are fascinated by science and love research then this could be the career for you. Hours are often long in this sector however job satisfaction is high, with chances for promotion and further study available.

 

Key advice for science graduates

Recruiters in this sector:

Adelphi Group

Adelphi Group supports the world’s leading pharmaceutical and healthcare organisations to help improve patients’ lives across the globe.

Advanced Remanufacturing Technology Centre, A*Star

The Advanced Remanufacturing and Technology Centre is a new industry-led centre by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research.

Animal Technician Development Programme

The Animal Technician Development Programme (ATDP) links employers with college leavers and university graduates with 1 key focus 'to train and place animal lovers into a career as an animal technician'.

Boots

Boots, are one of the biggest names in health and beauty retailing

Boss Professional Services

Boss Professional Services Ltd are an established recruitment consultancy based in Oval, London.

Caremark

Caremark is a renowned home care provider that offer personal support , home help, home care and companionship services

GlobalData

We are a world-class data and analytics company, helping our 4,000 strong client base to decode the future to be more successful and innovative.

Imperial Clinic Research Facility

Equipped to cater for studies from across the range of medical disciplines .

Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust

Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT) provides acute hospital and specialist services across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Royal Society of Chemistry

The Royal Society of Chemistry is the world's leading chemistry community and, in the UK, the largest non-governmental supporter of chemical science education.

SeNSS

The South East Network for Social Sciences (SeNSS) is an Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)-funded consortium of 10 leading UK universities, offering cutting-edge social science research, training and collaboration.

Solid Mechanics Research Group - University of Bristol

SMRG at Bristol has a successful history of using applied mechanics and cutting-edge technology to help define and solve industrially-motivated problems.

Teach First

Teach First is an independent charity aimed at addressing one of the UK's most damaging social issues.

The Science and Technology Facilities Council

The Science and Technology Facilities Council is keeping the UK at the forefront of international science and tackling some of the most significant challenges facing society.