New research shows why Gen-Z is choosing to work in pharma

15 July 2024 Posted in News by Press Office

Younger workers are increasingly choosing careers in pharmaceuticals over other leading industries like technology or finance due to perceptions of better work life balance and social purpose in the sector.

In a new report ‘Young people’s perceptions of careers in the pharmaceutical industry’, the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) found that a good salary continues to be the leading factor influencing career decisions of young people, with 50% saying good earnings were the most important factor when looking for roles [1]. 

The research, which aimed to understand young people’s motivations when considering career paths, showed that traditional factors such as work-life balance (28%), doing interesting work (23%) and job security (20%) remain high up in candidates' decision making, though good earnings (50%) were considered the most important aspect for young people when looking for work [2].

While salary may top the list of priorities, it is not the only factor the next generation cares about with research revealing that the industry’s societal impact, compared to rival sectors is also high in considerations.

Young people recognise the pharmaceutical industry as a force for good, rating it higher than tech (54% vs 23%), finance (53% vs 25%), and energy (53% vs 20%) in terms of its positive contribution to society.

Work-life balance in particular was rated as important, and this was seen as a key consideration when choosing a career in the pharmaceutical industry over other sectors like technology, which were perceived to have less favourable working conditions. Looking at organisations that aligned with personal views, young people also favoured the industry over tech and energy sectors.

Andrew Croydon, Director, ABPI Education and Examination Policy & Partnerships said: "As the workforce landscape continues to evolve, it's crucial for industries like ours to adapt to the changing preferences of the generations to come. By offering competitive salaries, promoting work-life balance, and highlighting the societal impact of their work, companies can attract and retain top talent in this competitive market."

The research also showed consistency across various demographic groups regarding factors motivating career choices. Regardless of gender, age, education, or financial background, all respondents unanimously prioritised earnings, work-life balance, job security, and engaging work as pivotal considerations, proving the universal appeal of certain job attributes among young professionals.

Despite these positive findings, the pharmaceutical industry still has work to do. While jobs in the industry appeal to a diverse range of young individuals, the research highlights a particularly strong attraction among those with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) backgrounds. Recent stats from the Office for Life Sciences show the UK to have a high proportion of graduates completing STEM courses relative to comparators, ranking second behind India in 2021 [3].

Many young people remain unaware of the diverse range of opportunities within the industry, and the various routes of entry. The number of life sciences apprenticeships has been steadily increasing over the years [3], but this lack of understanding contributes to perceptions of narrow career pathways and limited diversity. Companies within the industry need to showcase the wide range of roles available, ensuring an inclusive and dynamic workforce for the future.

Overall, the research highlights the critical importance of understanding and addressing the evolving career preferences of young people in shaping the future of the pharmaceutical industry. 

The findings offer actionable insights for industry leaders, looking to cultivate the next generation of talent in pharmaceuticals. Report recommendations include: 

Member recommendations 

1. Salary and benefits in job adverts and workplace descriptions should be transparent from the outset. Our research makes clear that understanding the salary and benefits on offer, is essential for many young people to even consider roles in the industry.

2. Do not assume that young people know anything about the industry. One of the main findings from our focus groups was that young people were unaware about the roles available and impact of the industry. Providing information about the industry for context may make roles more attractive.

3. Be clear about the actual requirements to do the job. Perceived academic and experience barriers to entry were shared as putting many participants off the industry. Including a specific articulation of what is required from candidates may help diversify the candidate pool.

4. Focus on the impact on society and more specifically patients. Many of the young people we spoke to shared that they were keen to be involved with organisations which impact society - being explicit about your impact is essential.

5. Highlight the projected growth of the sector. A better understanding of job stability and projected growth of the industry may help attract young people to roles in the industry.

6. Think about how you’re advertising your roles and promoting the industry. Many participants spoke about the role of social media in shaping their perceptions of careers in different industries as well as common misconceptions about most roles being based in the lab. Utilising different platforms to promote the industry could help effectively influence this population.

Last modified: 15 July 2024

Last reviewed: 15 July 2024

[1] The report ‘Young people’s perceptions of careers in the pharmaceutical industry’ was supported by ABPI members and Public First for research delivery, poll analysis and report development. The full report can be found here.
[2] This research for this report took place between March and April 2024 and included:

  • a poll of a nationally representative sample of 2,037 16 - 25 year olds in the UK
  • a focus group of current undergraduates studying STEM subjects
  • a focus group of recent STEM graduates employed in industries other than the pharmaceutical industry, but open to changing careers; and
  • two workshops with early career stage employees of ABPI member companies

[3] 8.7% of UK graduates came from natural sciences, mathematics and statistics courses, placing the UK second among comparators, behind only India. Office for Life Sciences, Life sciences competitiveness indicators 2024, 11 July 2024

The ABPI exists to make the UK the best place in the world to research, develop and use new medicines. We represent companies of all sizes who invest in discovering the medicines of the future. 

Our members supply cutting edge treatments that improve and save the lives of millions of people. We work in partnership with Government and the NHS so patients can get new treatments faster and the NHS can plan how much it spends on medicines. Every day, we partner with organisations in the life sciences community and beyond to transform lives across the UK.

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