Are you science mad, fascinated by new technology and scientific findings but not keen on spending your career in a lab? Then a career in medical communications could be for you. We continue our “Interviewing the Professionals” series and meet Louise who began her career as a scientist before joining the world of Medical Communications…
What is your job title?
My role is a bit of a hybrid, I work for a small agency so I put on many hats but my official job title is Senior Medical Writer.
How long have you worked for the business?
Nearly 6 years.
What is the best thing about your job?
If I have to limit it to one thing then it’s the science, its what makes me tick. I love hearing about new advances, how new therapies are coming into play. It’s a field that is literally changing lives and I take real pride in being a part of it.
Give us a brief summary of your career so far…
My first job from university was working within academic research. I enjoyed it but got frustrated with budgets, cuts and I craved something more commercial. It was whilst doing this that I spoke with a colleague about medical communications. After a lot applications and a lot of research into how to go about transitioning over to med comms I landed my first job with a communications agency as an Associate Medical Writer. Six years later I’m now a Senior Medical Writer, organising and training the team.
When you were growing up, what did you want to be and why?
I don’t know that I really knew, I just knew I was good at and enjoyed science. I had a science teacher who made science interesting, I couldn’t get enough of it and from there it opened up my career.
What do you think are the key skills from your past that enabled you to get the job you have today?
Being a good researcher and writer, good at organising and really good attention to detail!
What advice do you have for someone looking to start a career in Medical Communications?
Talk to people in the industry, be persistent in your goal, I had a lot of set backs in trying to break into medical writing but once in it’s a great career. I found lots of resources and information on medcomms networking so take a look there. Offer to do some internships or work shadowing to get a feel for the industry.
If you could tell your younger self anything, what would it be?
Be more confident in your ability, push for what you want and think positively.