Pharmaceutical science is a vast field which is constantly evolving. There is a lot of career scope in pharmaceutical science with the right qualifications. The pharma industry is expanding at a significant rate, creating new opportunities in the field for skilled professionals. If you want to pursue a fast-paced and challenging career that has a global scope, then pharmaceutical science is the right option for you. Here is everything you need to know about pharmaceutical science and the top careers you can pursue in the field.
What is Pharmaceutical Science?
Pharmaceutical science is an umbrella term that encompasses interdisciplinary fields such as discovery of drugs, optimisation of drug dosage, optimal manufacturing practices, and desired health benefits of said drugs. Pharmaceutical science targets designing, testing, manufacturing, and distributing various kinds of medicines that can treat and cure illnesses.
There are different kinds of drugs available that can be widely categorised under two categories: over the counter drugs and prescription drugs. As the names suggest, over the counter drugs are ones that you can purchase directly from a pharmacy without needing a prescription. These drugs do not have any excessive harmful effects, if the recommended dosage is followed.
Prescription drugs, on the other hand, can cause adverse effects if taken without a doctor’s recommendation. There are various guidelines that decide which drugs fall under which category, depending on their impact on the human body.
Top Careers in Pharmaceutical Science
1. Pharmacist
A pharmacist is someone who works in a pharmacy and dispenses medicines to consumers. These professionals are knowledgeable about various drugs, their dosage, and side effects. They guide consumers on the dosage and help them obtain drugs based on a doctor’s prescription. Pharmacists also have to keep an eye on the inventory, order depleting medicines and other medical equipment from the manufacturers on time, and ensure that the pharmacy is running smoothly.
2. Regulatory Officer
Regulatory officers are recruited by drug testing and manufacturing companies to ensure the quality and efficiency of the medicines. These professionals are also involved in the testing phase of drugs, and the final manufacturing process. They make sure that the manufacturing facilities are following standardised operations based on government rules and regulations. They also have to make sure that the manufacturing plant is up to code and has the necessary permits to run efficiently.
3. Clinical Research Scientist
As the name suggests, a clinical research scientist works in high-tech labs to conduct relevant research on the creation of new drugs and treatments for diseases. They analyse samples of diseases and try to find apt solutions to combat the disease through clinical trials. These professionals also have to work on existing drugs to make them more efficient by ensuring that they have negligible side effects. This is one of the most respected and highly paid professions in the pharmaceutical industry.
4. Pharmaceutical Manufacturer
Pharmaceutical manufacturers produce drugs using raw materials based on chemical compositions prescribed by clinical research scientists. Their main responsibility is to oversee the drug manufacturing process, ensure that the manufacturing facility is running efficiently, and also follow established rules and regulations regarding the safety of the manufacturing process. This job involves working with hazardous chemicals and so only professionals holding the right qualifications and training can be recruited to work as pharmaceutical manufacturers.
5. Chemist
A chemist is someone who has enhanced knowledge about various chemicals and chemical compounds. These professionals study these chemicals and conduct necessary experiments to come up with improved chemical compounds that can then be used in medications. They also have to ensure that these chemical compounds are safe for human consumption and adhere to the rules and regulations set by the government for the pharmaceutical industry. Chemists play a crucial role in designing new medicines and vaccines to combat diseases.
6. Entrepreneurship
Professionals holding a Diploma in Pharmacy can become entrepreneurs by launching a pharmacy of their own. They can dispense medication and other medical equipment to customers, based on their needs. With the right planning, they can also expand their business and turn their pharmacy into a chain of pharmacies across the city or even across the country. Running a pharmacy is a big deal so you need to make sure that you secure adequate financial investment and draw up a viable business plan to avoid failure.
Study Pharmaceutical Science at Sandip University
Sandip University’s School of Pharmaceutical Science is one of the top pharmaceutical colleges in Nashik, Maharashtra. There are many benefits of a pharmacy course from Sandip University. You can pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programs like Diploma in Pharmacy, Bachelor of Pharmacy and M.Sc in Pharmaceutical Science to embark upon a bright career in this field.
The course curriculum at Sandip University is aligned with industry standards and students receive training in high-tech labs with the latest equipment. Sandip University’s placement cell organises an annual placement drive to provide students with 100% placement assistance. So, if you wish to establish a lucrative and thriving career in the pharmaceutical industry, then Sandip University is the right educational institution for you!