Applying for your first job in life sciences: where to start?

As a new candidate in the life sciences industry, you can tap into many unique opportunities across a wide variety of specialisms.

Whether you’ve just graduated, or you are looking to make the first step toward a life sciences career, it is essential to be aware of the roles available for you as well as the required skills and qualifications. Here, we provide an overview of them as well as useful tips on where to start your job search.

Roles, skills, and qualifications

Understanding the typical roles in each life sciences area and what they require is the essential first step of your job search:

• Research and development

Roles: Research scientist, project manager, laboratory technician, bioinformatician.

Skills: Lab experience, maths knowledge, data analysis, problem-solving, flexibility, good communication.

• Manufacturing and production

Roles: Production manager, process engineer, quality control specialist, quality engineer, production technician.

Skills: Understanding of cybersecurity threats, networks and computer systems, communication, collaboration, critical thinking.

• Quality assurance

Roles: Quality assurance manager, quality control technician, regulatory affairs specialist, labelling compliance specialist.

Skills: Critical thinking, data analysis, drug development life cycle knowledge, strong written and verbal communication, problem-solving.

Once you’ve pinpointed the role you want, it’s important to consider your qualifications.

Most roles in the industry require specific degrees, such as a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD in a relevant field like biology or chemistry. Many also demand certifications such as GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) or GDP (Good Distribution Practice), as well as experience in research or laboratory work.

Where to start in your job search?

Life sciences is a huge industry, and to get ahead of the competition, it might be helpful for you to explore various hiring channels.

• LinkedIn is a great place to start

Find out who the key players are in the specialisation or company you want to work in and connect with them. You can also join LinkedIn groups focused on your field, such as Biotech and Pharma or Rx&D.

• Explore industry-specific job boards

When you identify your desired role in life sciences, make sure you regularly visit the job boards where similar roles are most likely to be advertised. It will be helpful to set up job alerts from the relevant job boards, so you are always up to date with the latest available roles.

• Regularly visit the career pages of companies you’re interested in

In many cases, the company’s websites will be the first place where new vacancies are advertised. If you have in mind any specific companies you’d want to work in, it would be best to regularly check their career pages and social media channels.

• Reach out to recruitment specialists to narrow your search

Speaking to recruitment specialists can give you a better understanding of the current job market and provide you with end-to-end support in your job search. They will be able to help you gain expert insight into roles and specialisations, and also provide you guidance throughout the application process.

• Expand your network and stay up to date with industry trends

To do so, attend industry-specific job fairs or events where you can meet people who are already in the industry and can provide you with further insight and information about potential opportunities. In addition, registering for relevant industry webinars or making sure you regularly read industry-specific news, will further expand your knowledge and make you a more competitive candidate.

Looking for your first or second job in life sciences can be a challenging process, but with preparation, you can not only increase your chances of getting hired but also expand your industry knowledge and professional network.

Are you looking for a career in life sciences? Get in touch with our team of experts to discuss how we can support your job search..

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