Interactive Resources for Schools
This topic takes on average 55 minutes to read.
There are a number of interactive features in this resource:
Chemistry
Science
The industry in the UK directly employs around 65,000 people, in addition to generating thousands more jobs in related industries. The workforce covers a wide range of talent across many business functions, from small spinouts to large multinational organisations. In research and development (R&D) and manufacturing, this includes both established scientific disciplines and emerging specialisms shaped by advances in science and technology.
Some of the industry workforce have degrees in biological subjects or in chemistry, maths, engineering or from an increasing field of other subjects. While many others working in the industry have joined through an apprenticeship. All routes into industry are then complemented by opportunities for upskilling and retraining throughout career journeys.
Many young people remain unaware of the diverse range of opportunities within the industry, and the various routes of entry. Companies within the industry are working to showcase the wide range of roles available, ensuring an inclusive and dynamic workforce for the future. There are many working in the industry who do not have a STEM background, and there are many who work in industry commercial and support functions, including in the following departments: finance; Human Resources; IT; legal.
Research also shows younger workers are increasingly choosing careers in pharmaceuticals over other leading industries like technology or finance due to perceptions of better work life balance and social purpose in the sector.
For more information about careers in industry and what people do in their job roles, check out the following web pages:
Getting a job, or even a work experience placement in a pharmaceutical company can be highly competitive – it will be important to demonstrate your interest and skill set when applying.