If you’re an analytical thinker and problem solver with a natural curiosity and inquisitive mindset, a career in science and pharmaceutical could be for you.
Science and pharmaceutical jobs are available in a variety of disciplines from research and development, clinical trials and medical sales to forensic science, pharmacy and science writing. There are dozens of specialities and new emerging technologies coming to the fore all the time.
That means there’s high demand to pursue a career in STEM related subjects and turn your passion for discovery and understanding how things work into a reality. Whether you’re looking to solve issues caused by climate change or unlock the secrets of the universe.
Featured Stockport Employer
Hear from Tahera Begum at SEDA Pharmaceutical Development Services, based at Cheadle Royal Business Park in a new state-of-the-art facility with bespoke offices and laboratories.
Seda provides pharmaceutical development and clinical pharmacology services and consultancy to the pharma and biotech industry. Founded in 2015, they provide consultancy services across the biotech industry. They are going through a rapid period of expansion as they establish themselves as a premier, science-led, pharmaceutical CRO.
Find out more about Tahera’s journey as a Scientist, how she got started, the qualifications and skills required, and what she loves most about the job she does.
Labour Market Information
In recent times, it’s safe to say the science and pharmaceutical industries in the UK and worldwide have been pretty busy. They’ve played a huge role in the fight against Covid-19, ramping up research and vaccine development. The release of the Pfizer and Oxford Astra Zeneca vaccines contributed to the biggest vaccination programme in our history.
As a result, the science and pharma industries have had a high public profile and there is a growing need for a skilled workforce. Whilst there’s been increased awareness of the role that the sector plays, there’s also been other impacts – such as higher levels of university applications but challenges to the learning and lab experience for current students.
There’s therefore an increasing focus amongst Stockport’s science and pharma employers on apprenticeships and graduate schemes, which could play a key role in closing the skills gap and producing industry-ready employees who have more hands-on experience and practical skills to support our local economy.
Starting Salary
£12-15 per hour or £18-25,000
per annum
Typical Salary Range
£28,000 – £82,500
per annum
Working Hours
35 to 40 hours per week, between 8am and 6pm
LMI Infographic from GMACS
GMACS have produced a range of helpful infographics to summarise careers in the Life Sciences sector and the current employment landscape in Greater Manchester. According to the stats, the most in-demand roles are as a Lab Technician, Biomedical Scientist, in Sales & Business Development or in Research & Development (R&D) and you may find yourself working for one of 300+ life sciences employers such as the NHS, Qiagen or Lighthouse Labs Network for example. You’ll be joining 6,000 GM residents who work in this sector earning an average of £35,894 and you’ll need to demonstrate creativity, entrepreneurialism and communication skills.
You can view the full infographic and click on the links for more information by selecting the button below to view as a PDF.