Breaking into Medical Affairs: Your First Steps and Ideal Roles
Are you a science enthusiast with a passion for communication and a desire to bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and patient care? Medical Affairs might just be the perfect fit for your career. This dynamic field within the pharmaceutical and biotech industry offers a unique opportunity to leverage your scientific expertise in a non-commercial setting. But where do you start, and what roles are best for someone new to the field? As someone who interviews candidates for Medical Affairs positions, I’m often asked these questions. Let’s explore some common entry points and what it takes to succeed. Common Entry-Level Roles in Medical Affairs While the Medical Affairs landscape is diverse, three roles often serve as excellent starting points for a career in this field: Medical Science Liaison (MSL) Who it’s for: If you thrive on scientific exchange, enjoy building relationships, and are comfortable traveling frequently, the MSL role could be your calling. MSLs are the scientific face of the company, engaging in peer-to-peer discussions with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and other healthcare professionals to share scientific information and gather insights. What we look for: Medical Information Specialist Who it’s for: If you have a meticulous eye for detail, excellent research skills, and a talent for clear scientific writing, a Medical Information Specialist role might be an ideal fit. This position is typically office-based and involves responding to unsolicited requests for medical information from healthcare professionals and consumers. What we look for: Medical Advisor Who it’s for: Medical Advisors are the strategists of the Medical Affairs department. While often requiring some prior industry or Medical Affairs experience, it can be an entry point for highly qualified individuals, particularly those with an MD or PhD, who demonstrate strong leadership and strategic thinking. What we look for: What I Look for in a CV and During an Interview When I’m reviewing CVs and conducting interviews, I’m looking for a combination of scientific rigor, practical skills, and personal attributes that indicate a strong fit for the demanding yet rewarding world of Medical Affairs. Your CV: Make It Stand Out The Interview: Your Opportunity to Connect My interviews typically start with a brief introduction from me to create a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. Then, it’s your turn to walk me through your career journey, highlighting skills and experiences relevant to the job description. The conversation then transitions into a Q&A session. Here’s what I’ll be looking for: Your Turn to Ask: Show Your Interest The end of the interview is your critical opportunity to ask questions. This shows your genuine interest, engagement, and that you’ve thought deeply about the role and the company. Avoid asking about salary at this stage; that’s typically handled by HR or a recruitment agent (especially in regions like Japan, where agents often navigate this sensitive topic). Here are a couple of examples of thoughtful questions you might consider: Ultimately, I’m looking for the best fit for our team: a knowledgeable and collaborative colleague who can quickly become independent, and from whom we can all learn. Diverse teams with varied backgrounds and skillsets are, in my experience, the strongest. Are you considering a career in Medical Affairs, or perhaps looking to make a switch? What aspect of this field excites you the most?