Science and pharmaceuticals sector
The science and pharmaceuticals sector is at the forefront of innovation, discovery, and public health. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines including biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine, and plays a critical role in developing new treatments, improving healthcare, and advancing scientific understanding.
From drug development to clinical research, roles such as laboratory scientist or regulatory affairs associate offer the chance to contribute to breakthroughs that improve lives. Careers in this sector are ideal for those passionate about research, problem-solving, and making a tangible impact on society.
It’s a dynamic industry where your work can make a real difference to patients around the world.
The Institute of Clinical Research
Explore opportunites and events
Explore science and pharmaceuticals events, including employer-led events, alumni panels, skills workshops, and networking sessions.
Browse current graduate roles, internships, and placements in science, pharmaceuticals and related fields.
Gain work experience
Gaining experience in science and pharmaceuticals helps you apply your academic knowledge in real-world settings and build essential lab, research, and data skills. Industrial placements and summer internships are common entry routes, especially for research and lab-based roles. Volunteering, part-time lab work, or involvement in STEM societies can also strengthen your CV and show initiative.
- Apply for industrial placements or summer research internships
- Volunteer in labs, hospitals, or science outreach programmes
- Make speculative applications to hospitals
- Join related societies or take part in science communication projects
- Attend industry events and network throughwebinars, conferences, or career fairs to connect with professionals and learn about current trends and opportunities.
Explore more on the University of Birmingham Work Experience and Internships page.
You may be eligible to apply for work experience bursaries through The University of Birmingham. For more details visit the internship funding pages.
Graduate and employer insights
Have you ever wondered how a new medicine or medical device goes from an idea to something that improves lives? That journey is at the heart of this industry, a field full of exciting and meaningful career opportunities.
Science and Pharmaceuticals is about much more than working in a lab wearing a white coat. It involves collaborating with doctors who test new treatments, managing and analysing data, and ensuring that all ethical and legal standards are met. It’s a dynamic industry where your work can make a real difference to patients around the world.
If you're methodical, organised, and a strong communicator, this sector could be a great fit for you. There are many entry-level roles that offer a pathway into this rewarding field
The Institute of Clinical Research
Many of our University of Birmingham graduates have gone on to build exciting careers in the science and pharmaceuticals sectors. Explore their stories for inspiration and consider connecting with them on LinkedIn to learn more about their journeys and professional insights.
Abigail Morrison
Biomedical Science BSc
Patient Safety Scientist in Oncology at AstraZeneca
Read Abigail's Story »
Abi Weaver
Biochemistry MSci
Medical Affairs Senior Scientist at Haleon
Read Abi's Story »
Deepali Lodhia
Physics and Astrophysics MSci and PhD
Senior Education and Future Workforce Manager for Space Exploration for the UK Space Agency
Read Deepali's Story »
Harriet Lahiff
Pharmacy MPharm
Post Doctoral Research Associate at the University of Liverpool
Read Harriet's Story »
Useful Resources
Navigating careers in science and pharmaceuticals can feel complex, with a wide range of specialisms and pathways to explore. To help guide your journey, we've curated trusted resources that offer valuable insights, job opportunities, and professional development tailored to your interests.