Medical department intern

So, what do you do?  

As part of my undergraduate sandwich degree in Biomedical Science, I am completing one year at my company as a Medical Intern. During my internship I am working for 3 months in each of the 4 sub department of the Medical Department - Drug Safety, Regulatory Affairs, Quality Assurance and Medical Information/Communication. Currently I am working for Medical Information/Communication and Quality Assurance, after which I will be going back to university to complete my final year.

What does your typical day involve? 

My typical day depends on which department I work for. But currently, I help with:

• Logging product complaints
• Artwork approvals
• Reconciliations 
• Paperwork for licence submissions
• Paperwork for batch release 

Do you work mostly on your own or as part of a team? 

I work as part of a team, under the supervision of the relevant department’s manager. 

How long have you been in your current role? 

My role lasts one year.

What qualifications and experience do you have? 

• A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and German
• AS Levels in Mathematics and Psychology 
• Studying BSc. Biomedical Science at Brunel University expected to graduate in 2015

When and why did you decide on a career in the pharmaceutical industry? 

Studying a science degree, I have realised that I am not a ‘lab person’ and therefore I was looking for science related office based placements when I came across the company I am now working for. Having been there for about 10 months, I made the choice to go into the pharmaceutical industry after graduation. 

I was always keen to help people and had a great interest in science and I think the pharmaceutical industry brings those two things together for me.

Do you think additional qualifications or experience would be an advantage for someone entering the industry now? What might be valuable? 

I believe additional experience and qualifications are always an advantage. It is very useful to have a science background if you are entering the industry. 

What is it like socially where you work? 

Very social, and I would say I am lucky for having started my first job with such friendly and helpful people. Everybody is approachable and we also meet occasionally outside work to socialise.

What are you most proud of in your career? 

I believe my career will only start after I graduate, but so far my most proud moment was getting my internship with my company as it was my first step to a future career in the pharmaceutical industry.

​What do you think are the most important skills for someone in your role to have? 

Good communication and interpersonal skills.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to someone seeking a career in the pharmaceutical industry? 

Do research into industry and find out which jobs are suitable for them. 

Seek advice from people who are already working in industry.