Facts & figures
Careers_
Pharmaceutical and medical
Specialised careers beyond the lab
Aspiring to contribute to cutting-edge medical research or play a part in advancing global healthcare for a better world? Studying science will equip you with valuable skills tailored for diverse careers within the industry.
Science underpins all medical and health-related fields. A science degree can serve as a pathway to a career in improving health in Australia and around the world.
A background in science education opens the door to a multitude of careers within the pharmaceutical industry. These can include delving into disease research, studying molecular intricacies, or specialising in nutrition for healthy habits.
Australia's thriving multi-billion-dollar pharmaceutical market has witnessed steady growth and is expected to see a growing demand for pharmacy services due to the increasing aging population. Thus, this industry presents promising growth and prospects for future science students.
What are the career opportunities in pharmaceutical and medical?
Policy advisors in the pharmaceutical and medical industry play a crucial role in bridging the gap between science and public health regulations. They are professionals who are responsible for providing advice on regulatory and policy issues.
Advisors analyse and interpret data and collaborate with policymakers to create effective and ethical regulations.
Additionally, advisors in this industry are essential in the development of new pharmaceutical or medical products. They are responsible for ensuring that the product meets regulations and health standards.
Graduates with a science background can bring forth, analytical skills and scientific knowledge that can contribute to shaping policies that impact public health on a broad scale.
An area of focus could involve working with NGOs like the Cancer Council, ensuring their public recommendations align with the National Cancer Prevention Policy.
Expected salary: $105,000 *Seek
Naturally, pharmaceutical and medical products are complex and hard to understand in detail. Consequently, individuals with a foundation in science or health are ideally suited for the task of selling or promoting these products.
Sales professionals in this industry engage with healthcare providers, explaining the benefits of pharmaceutical products and medical devices. Alternatively, marketers develop strategies to promote these products effectively.
A science education equips graduates to understand the intricacies of medical advancements, making them a valuable liaison between the scientific community and the broader public.
Expected salary: $142,200 *PayScale (Pharmaceutical Sales and Marketing Manager)
A technical writer in the pharmaceutical and medical industry translates complex information into clear and digestible documentation.
Documents can include instruction guides, manuals, medication precautions, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and research reports.
These documents must be accurate and well-written to minimise user error. Therefore professionals need to be detail-orientated, effective communicators and have the skill to translate technical information into understandable content. These essential skills are honed throughout one's journey in science education
Professionals can be found working in pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, regulatory bodies, and healthcare organisations.
Expected salary: $112,000 *Seek
What to study?
We have degree options that will help get you where you want to be.
Dr Sarah Dalati
Bachelor of Science (Honours) 2009, PhD 2015
Sarah completed her PhD in science and investigated fertility and the fertilisation process for mice. Sarah now works as a Clinical Embryologist at Genea.
Learn more
Terry Perkins
Master of Medical Physics 2019
After working as an electrical engineer for many years, Terry took an interest in the medical physics field.
Learn more