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Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology

The pharmaceuticals and biotechnology sector plays a crucial role in improving public health through the development of medicines, vaccines and diagnostic tools. Professionals in this field typically work in pharmaceutical companies, biotech start-ups, contract research organisations (CROs), or academic and government research institutions. Key roles span across research and development (R&D), clinical trials, regulatory affairs, quality control and production. 

This sector is highly innovative and fast-paced, with significant growth driven by advances in personalised medicine, gene therapy and biologics. Career opportunities include clinical research associates, biotechnologists, regulatory affairs officers and pharmacologists. Other example roles include medical science liaison, toxicologist, research scientist (life sciences), and medical sales representative, reflecting the diverse skill sets required across the development, communication and commercialisation of medical innovations. The UK biotech industry is thriving, with increasing investment in cutting-edge areas such as mRNA technology and immunotherapy. You can also choose to specialise in an area of pharmacology, such as cardiovascular pharmacology, clinical pharmacology, neuropharmacology, psychopharmacology and veterinary pharmacology. 

Further research  

If you're interested in this sector, you might also want to explore related areas like healthcare science, medical technology, forensic science or for complementary career paths Science Careers outside the Lab.

Skills employers look for

Every employer is different so there are no definitive lists here.  These are meant as a guide and should be considered in addition to fully exploring role requirements outlined in person specification, job description and advert for each role you consider applying for. 

Employers in the pharmaceuticals and biotechnology sector look for a strong blend of technical knowledge, scientific curiosity, and soft skills. Key attributes include: 

  • Analytical and methodological problem-solving abilities, with a logical and objective approach to challenges
  • Excellent observational skills and attention to detail, critical for accurate data recording and quality control
  • Commercial awareness, understanding the broader business and regulatory context of the industry
  • An enquiring mind, driven by curiosity and a commitment to innovation and continuous improvement
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills, essential for working in cross-functional teams and reporting findings
  • Creativity, particularly in experimental design, product development, and tackling scientific challenges
  • Strong IT and numeracy skills, including data analysis, statistical software, and laboratory information systems
  • Good time management, with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines in fast-paced environments
  • An open-minded attitude towards new ideas, emerging technologies, and collaborative research
  • Planning, organisation, and project management skills, useful for coordinating research activities or regulatory submissions
  • Presentation skills, to clearly share research outcomes or pitch ideas to internal and external stakeholders
  • Scientific, technical, or research skills, particularly in areas such as molecular biology, pharmacology and biotechnology methods
  • Ability to work well in multidisciplinary teams, including colleagues in research, manufacturing, clinical trials and quality assurance.

These skills not only make candidates suitable for roles in pharmaceuticals and biotech but also provide a strong foundation for related sectors such as healthcare technology, environmental science and regulatory affairs. 

To develop these skills, remember Career Zone also offers a range of Personal and Professional Development sessions which are available to book on Handshake and run at least once per term.  Please also read through the sections about Gaining Experience and Further Study and Professional Development to discover how you can develop your skills through experience and by gaining further knowledge or qualifications.   

Gaining Experience

All experiences ranging from volunteering, active involvement in clubs/societies can help you to develop relevant and transferable skills. You may wish to consider involvement in: 

Volunteering 

Volunteering is a valuable way to gain relevant and transferable skills that are highly regarded in the pharmaceuticals and biotechnology sector. Whether you're directly involved in scientific work or participating in community projects, these experiences can help you develop teamwork, communication, organisation and problem-solving skills. 

You may wish to consider volunteering with: 

  • Hospitals or healthcare charities (e.g. Cancer Research UK, British Heart Foundation), gain insight into clinical environments and public health.
  • STEM outreach programmes (e.g. STEM Ambassadors, Science Museums, local science festivals)’ develop communication and public engagement skills.
  • University clubs and societies – taking on leadership roles in science-related societies can enhance your organisation and project management abilities. Exeter Students' Guild  for Exeter campuses and the Students’ Union in Cornwall.
  • Citizen science projects (e.g. Zooniverse, International Volunteer HQ ), contribute to real research while improving your analytical thinking.
  • Care homes or support centres – develop interpersonal skills and empathy, both important for patient-facing or team-based roles.
  • Fundraising or event organisation – strengthen planning, budgeting, and communication capabilities.
  • If you're looking to develop scientific communication skills, consider tutoring or science outreach volunteering through local education initiatives or platforms like MyTutor. 

University of Exeter Employability Schemes 

  • Career Zone Internship schemes: Internships can be extremely useful, so try and get relevant vacation work or placements
  • Exeter Award: The Exeter Award will help you stand out from the crowd and give you the confidence to shout about the experiences you've had at university
  • The Global Leaders Experience is a unique opportunity to develop your intercultural skills as part of a short, outbound mobility experience. 

Speculative applications and where to find opportunities 

Undertaking relevant work experience will also allow you to develop new skills and gain a valuable insight into the sector. As jobs and opportunities are not always advertised, it can be useful to develop your networking skills and apply speculatively. Before visiting the sites below, you may find it useful to read our Researching employers page. 

You can find opportunities and contacts on websites such as: 

Additionally, attending industry events, career fairs, or talks hosted by the university or external professional bodies can help you build connections and uncover hidden opportunities.  

Finding work experience  

Finding part-time work is a great way to gain transferable skills and experience that can support your career goals in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Whether you're looking for something science-related or simply a role to develop core competencies like communication, teamwork and time management, there are several useful platforms and organisations to explore. 

Handshake is an excellent starting point for finding opportunities. It features a wide range of part-time jobs, internships, and research assistant roles from employers specifically looking to hire Exeter students. You can refine your search using filters to match your interests, course relevance, and availability—making it easy to discover roles that align with your career goals. You may wish to approach other organisations such as:  

  • SRG – a specialist science recruitment agency with part-time and temporary lab roles
  • CK Science – focuses on science-based recruitment, including entry-level roles and internships
  • Zenopa – recruitment agency specialising in healthcare roles, including medical, lab, engineering, sales, and admin positions
  • PharmiWeb.Jobs – one of the largest pharmaceutical job boards with vacancies in clinical research, medical communications, manufacturing, and operations
  • Carrot Recruitment – recruitment consultancy specialising in pharmaceutical roles across a range of functions
  • Jobs.ac.uk – includes research and technical assistant roles in universities and research institutes
  • LinkedIn Jobs – follow pharmaceutical and biotech companies, and use filters to search for student and part-time roles
  • FindAPhD – while mainly for PhD opportunities, it also features research internships and assistant posts
  • UKRI Jobs Board – occasionally posts research support roles within public-funded research bodies.

Finding advertised graduate roles, placements and internships

Competition can be strong, especially for entry-level positions. Use the following resources to find advertised vacancies and research employers. 

Specialist Job Boards and Recruitment Agencies 

Use these sector-specific platforms to find roles in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and life sciences: 

  • PharmiWeb.Jobs – One of the leading pharmaceutical job boards offering roles in clinical research, drug safety, medical communications and regulatory affairs.
  • EPM Scientific – Global recruiters in life sciences and pharmaceuticals, with roles across the R&D pipeline.
  • New Scientist – Features a wide range of graduate roles, internships and placements in academia, biotech and pharma.
  • BioTalent – Offers permanent and contract roles in biotech, medtech and pharmaceutical sectors.
  • CK Group – Specialises in scientific, clinical, and technical recruitment, with frequent listings for graduate and entry-level positions.
  • Zenopa Recruitment agency specialising in all types of jobs within the healthcare sector, including sales, engineering, medical, laboratory and administrative jobs. 
  • Carrot Recruitment – A consultancy focused on pharmaceutical and healthcare roles across research, regulatory and commercial areas. 

You can also search for graduate roles through professional bodies such as the British Pharmacological Society (BPS), which advertises jobs and provides career advice for graduates entering the field. 

Graduate Schemes  

Many leading organisations in the sector offer structured graduate schemes that typically last between one and three years. These are excellent routes into long-term careers in pharmaceuticals and biotech: 

  • AstraZeneca – Offers 12 graduate pathways including data science, AI, precision medicine, R&D and biopharmaceuticals.
  • GSK – Runs the Future Leaders Programme with tailored schemes in science, business and technology.
  • Pfizer /  Novartis  and  Reckitt Benckiser (RB) – Multinational pharma companies offering graduate roles in research, manufacturing, marketing and more.
  • NHS Scientist Training Programme This programme lasts for three years and involves: approved and accredited workplace-based training and gaining a master’s degree in your chosen area of work.
  • STFC (Science and Technology Facilities Council) – Offers graduate opportunities at the intersection of science, technology and engineering. 

Graduate science roles are also advertised in trade and professional publications, such as New Scientist and through specialist recruitment agencies. 

Local and Regional Opportunities 

The South West is home to a growing life sciences and biotech sector. Devon County Council Skills Strategy identifies life sciences and healthcare as priority growth sectors for the local economy. For those wishing to work locally, there are increasing opportunities in Exeter, Plymouth and across Cornwall and Devon. 

  • Exeter Science Park – A hub for science, tech, and healthcare innovation. Many tenant organisations offer internships or graduate roles—check individual company websites.
  • Cornwall’s Good Growth Plan – Highlights investment in health, research, and life sciences as key areas for economic development in the region.
  • CIOS Skills Strategy – Details skills priorities for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, including pharmaceutical and research-related fields. 

For general information about finding graduate opportunities, please visit our Graduate Jobs page. 

Placements  

If you are interested in finding out more about work placements, you can also access the Work Placements SharePoint via Single Sign-On. This resource covers all aspects of credit-bearing work experiences as part of your degree, including what a placement is, how to apply for them, and bespoke information for international students or those interested in working abroad.  

Further sources of support 

If you are an international student, visit our international webpages for help finding opportunities both in the UK and globally. 

To find opportunities outside the UK use GoinGlobal.

Further study and professional development

Many employers look for graduates with an undergraduate qualification in a science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM) subject. 

You may need to consider undertaking further study to build skills and knowledge of the sector and occupation of interest. For example, an analytical chemist will need a degree in chemistry, food technologists require an undergraduate degree in a food-related subject and those working in drug development or research will need a degree in chemistry, biology or pharmacology. 

Postgraduate qualifications such as Masters degrees and PhDs are highly valued in the sector and are often a prerequisite for certain jobs. For example, you'll need an accredited Masters in pharmacy to become a community pharmacist. Areas of work such as biotechnology often demand a research Masters or Doctorate. 

Not all roles or employers will require this, so it is important to research entry requirements and employer preferences before committing to additional training or qualifications. Use the sites below to research your further study options.  

UCAS – Pharmacy, pharmacology and toxicology Subject Guide Provides a comprehensive overview of undergraduate and postgraduate sciences courses, including entry requirements, application advice and career guides.   

Information and links from professional bodies 

If you have studied a related degree, check if your course is accredited by one of the professional bodies. Being a member of a professional body is voluntary; however, it can be valuable for developing networks, continuing your professional development, and generally keeping up to date with what's happening in the sector.  

  • Royal Pharmaceutical Society The RPS is the professional body for pharmacists in the UK. It supports professionals through training, career development, and providing up-to-date information on current pharmaceutical practices. Members benefit from networking opportunities, ongoing education and guidance on regulatory standards in the pharmaceutical industry.
  • BioIndustry Association The BIA represents the UK’s leading biotech companies, working to promote the growth of the biotechnology sector. For those in biotechnology, this association offers a range of events, training programs and networking opportunities, alongside professional certifications in biotechnology innovation and entrepreneurship. The BIA also offers access to a wide range of industry insights and regulatory guidance.
  • Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry 
    ABPI is a key organization for professionals involved in the pharmaceutical industry, including those working in clinical trials, drug development and regulatory affairs. The ABPI offers ongoing professional development, policy updates and accreditation in areas such as good clinical practice (GCP) and good manufacturing practice (GMP).
  • Institute of Biomedical Science 
    The IBMS is a professional association for biomedical scientists, who often work in pharmaceutical research and development. The IBMS offers accredited courses, certification programs and continuous professional development (CPD) in laboratory science, clinical trials, and research methodologies, which are valuable for those in the pharmaceutical sector. 

Advice 

If you would like to pursue postgraduate study before entering your chosen sector, please visit our Postgraduate Study page for more information about choosing further study. If you are unsure whether further study is for you, you may wish to attend our ‘Postgraduate study: is it right for you?’ session which runs termly. Find these advertised on Handshake.