Laboratory scene with two scientists in protective gear conducting an experiment using a vial on the left side; right side shows an individual with curly hair in blue attire.

Getting started

Pharmacology

There are a wide range of occupations and employers in Pharmacology. A great place to start is to explore job profiles which provide key responsibilities, skill requirements, starting salaries, entry requirements, and career prospects within the different job roles.

 

Job profiles

Pharmacology roles can be be found in industries including:

To research different sectors in the industry to find out about available roles, you can use these links on the ABPI (The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry) website:

In addition, the ABPI website also has a range of case studies to learn about the personal journeys of those working in the industry.

You can also find detailed job profiles for the following roles on the Prospects website.

The NHS health career website profiles more than 350 different careers. You can explore the roles section for more information.

Some roles you could research include the following: 

Biotechnology is the application of biological systems to solve problems, improve processes and develop and manufacture products. Biotech companies exist in several industrial sectors, which include: biomedical, food and agriculture, and environmental. The UK Biotech website has a life science map where you can find and research companies by location or research by specific sectors.

 

Our Scientific research and analysis career guide can provide further details on opportunities in this industry.

 

Other Career Options

There are many opportunities for pharmacology graduates in the broader job market such as, banking and business, working in roles in accounting, insurance or investments. Some of these organisations run graduate training schemes and want applicants with the transferable skills that you will develop during your pharmacology studies, like problem solving, innovative thinking and working independently and as part of a team. ​Different schemes offer different roles depending on the size and business focus of the organisation, so take a look at these schemes to see which you think you would be most interested in.

These roles can be researched on several graduate job sites -  here are some suggested sites for you to explore: 

 

Keeping up to date

Here are some key resources to help you keep updated with industry news and explore the sector further.

 

Explore the Pharmacology Career Guide

Pharmacology

Your guide to building a career in pharmacology. 

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