Read these previous posts for a general overview of careers in the pharmaceutical industry, and a review of drug safety roles for physicians.

Overview of the role

Associate medical/medical directors in Medical Affairs are usually based at the company’s HQ (as opposed to Medical Science Liaison roles that are field-based). They connect the science behind the company’s drug or therapeutic area to business development and marketing. 

Responsibilities include:

Talk to colleagues in clinical development and communications within the company to ensure the scientific accuracy and appropriate timing of presentations and publications. 

Talk to physicians, Key Opinion Leaders, patients, advocacy groups, and payors to uncover concerns and gaps in the current drug profile. For example, is there a group of patients not adequately represented in the current trials?

Plan advisory board membership and meetings. 

Help prescribing physicians, patients, and payors understand the contribution of the drug to the therapeutic area.

Use clinical expertise to distinguish the drug from other competitors in the market. 

Is this the role for you?

This role might be a good fit if you have the following:

Skills: 

Some of the skills needed for this role can be learned on the job. You don’t need to be a specialist in the therapeutic area you are applying for. 

Excellent communication (verbal and written) and listening skills.

You work well in a team environment.

Experience:

Residency and some attending experience, preferably 3-5 years (fellowship often counts) is usually required. You might be able to land an associate medical director role with residency only.

Personality:

Bring your scientific curiosity! This can be more important than being a subject matter expert.

You are Interested in patient and physician advocacy.

You want to contribute to a therapeutic area to impact a large population of patients. 

You enjoy interacting with others (you lean towards extroversion) OR you’re an introvert who is comfortable interacting with others when you’re talking about a topic you know alot about or feel passionate about. 

Career preferences:

Most days are 9-5, and there is some flexibility.

Usually no nights/weekends/calls, except when you’re attending congresses. 

There are opportunities for career advancement and leadership roles.

Some travel is required. 

Salary:

The starting base salary varies. The full compensation package includes benefits, annual bonus, stock options, CME, and more. Salary increases with advancement in the company.

Estimated annual base salary range: ~$250K-$350K

Tips on how to land the job:

Roles to search for: Associate medical/medical director medical affairs.

It’s often easier if you have the specialty qualification they’re looking for (example, oncology, immunology, pulmonary) but if you’re not a specialist (or you’re specialist in another discipline), you can still apply. If you have experience treating patients with the disease, and you’re interested in contributing to the therapeutic area, apply!

Network! Make connections with others working in medical affairs. For tips on how to find former classmates who are now working in Pharma, read this.

Tips on how to show your interest in pharma:

• Take a Good Clinical Practice (GCP) Course.
• Volunteer to perform physical exams on healthy subject exams participating in phase 1 clinical trials near you.
• Become a member of an IRB
• Join a Pharma speaker’s bureau or volunteer to participate on an advisory panel. 

Does this sound like something you might be interested in? What questions do you have? Let me know and I will see how I can help you!

What other pharma roles are you interested in learning about?