10 career options available in the life sciences industry

If you’re looking into life science jobs and want to find out more about different roles, look no further. There are a range of career options available to you in this sector, whatever stage you’re at in your job search. Whether you just graduated with a professional qualification, you’re finding out how to enter the industry or you’re looking to change roles, there are many rewarding paths you can pursue.

Life science jobs span disciplines from biology to engineering, oncology to environmental science. You could work for life sciences companies such as pharmaceutical firms or biotechnology firms, in universities or government agencies.

We’ve put together a list of ten professions in health and life sciences careers. Find out more about the expectations and benefits of each role.

1) Research Associate

Clinical research associates support research and development projects in medicine. These positions can be found in areas such as drug manufacturing, analysis or clinical trials. The role typically involves duties such as designing, organising and overseeing experiments, as well as analysing, interpreting and reporting on data.

2) Quality Control Analyst

A quality control analyst gathers and analyses data on products and materials, conducting assessments to determine whether they comply with certain standards. They interpret test results, identifying problems when specifications aren’t met and implementing solutions to improve processes. You might also peer review testing documentation carried out by others.

3) Project Manager

 Life science jobs in project management are responsible for ensuring that activities are delivered in line with expectations. This could include the launch of new products in life science industries, clinical studies or regulatory submissions for drugs. Project managers take a leading role in planning, executing and measuring the success of projects. You’ll collaborate with teams across various functions to ensure that everything runs correctly, on time and on budget.

4) Medical Laboratory Scientist

Medical laboratory scientists are also referred to as medical technologists or clinical laboratory scientists. They perform tests on patient samples and compile reports on the results. This role is essential to breaking new ground in medicine. You could be helping to diagnose and monitor the behaviour of diseases, or measuring the efficacy of treatment.

5) Microbiologist

Microbiologists study organisms, identifying and classifying them to understand their impact. They help to prevent, diagnose and control infections and diseases. They also maintain safety in food products and study the impact of microbes on climate, the environment and agriculture. You may work in laboratories or in hospitals, using a variety of technologies, platforms and techniques.

6) Laboratory Technician

Lab technicians support scientists with running laboratories, in areas from testing and research to analysis, reporting, safety and hygiene. Duties include planning experiments, carrying out risk assessments and analysing samples. They also perform work such as preparing solutions, ordering stock, keeping equipment clean and staying informed on new technical developments.

7) Forensic Scientist

Forensic scientists support the criminal justice system. These types of life scientist jobs will specialise in either chemistry, biology or forensic toxicology. The responsibilities of this role include analysing samples, collecting and processing evidence, visiting crime scenes for examination and using a variety of forensic techniques. They interpret results and data, coordinate activity with authorities and appear in court under cross-examination.

8) Biochemist

Biochemists investigate the chemical processes of viruses, bacteria and human beings. Roles can be found in research laboratories, product development, healthcare and forensic teams. Duties include analysing samples of body fluids and tissues to understand cell development, growth and disease, as well as assessing the results of medicinal treatment. They also develop tests and research, create reports and interact with patients.

9) Biologist

A biologist is another of the life science jobs that studies living organisms to understand how they work. They may focus on macroscopic biology, which is concerned with subjects large enough to be visible without a microscope; or microscopic biology, focusing on items too small to be seen by the naked eye. Biologists can specialise in areas such as genetics, conservation or illness and disease.

10) Neuroscientist

Neuroscientists study the human brain, nervous system and spinal cord. Their work is concerned with furthering research and treatment for neurological conditions. You can specialise in an area such as developmental, cognitive, biomedical, computational or behavioural neuroscience. Responsibilities generally include helping to understand brain function, designing and carrying out experiments, publishing results and presenting recommendations.

Life sciences jobs with R&D Partners

R&D Partners are a leading staffing firm, connecting our wide network of professionals with high-quality clients. Together, our team of experts have over 200 years of experience in life science recruiting. Our dedicated consultants are here to give you valuable advice and support on your next steps.

We have trusted partnerships with top life sciences companies across the west and east coast. Whatever health and life sciences careers you’re looking to move into, we’ll bring you the most relevant opportunities that match your goals and experience.

Submit your CV and one of our recruitment consultants will reach out to discuss your career ambitions.