The Pharmaceutical Scientists conduct research to make sure that all medicines and medication procedures meet government standards and do not have any adverse impact on the patients. They go for research and clinical trials to give the best possible results so that the lives of common people are not put at risk. They are always expected to meet the standards prescribed by the U.S. Federal Drug Administration (FDA).

There is a big difference between Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists. While the former reviews the use of medicines, communicate with doctors, prepare and dispense medication and monitor the progress, the latter are adequately trained to discover, develop, do testing and

manufacture new medications. While Pharmacists work at healthcare facilities, the Pharmaceutical Scientists spend their entire time at research laboratories.

Education Requirements:

A Bachelor’s Degree in Science is considered as the entry-level education to become a Pharmaceutical Scientist. The four-year bachelor’s degree program will help the aspirants to understand the fundamentals of science and technological research. The course work will include general science, physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics apart from English.

After completing the bachelor’s degree, it is required to possess a doctorate and years of research experience to reach the level of Pharmaceutical Scientist. The master’s degree program and doctorate may take 3-4 years for completion. The students may choose pharmacology, chemistry, biology, anatomy, and mathematics during the study. They also need to Work in the pharmaceutical field to gain hands-on experience.

A strong mathematics background is very much required to become a Pharmaceutical Scientist. He should have excellent communication skills, analyzing abilities and deep knowledge in medical data to become a high level professional in pharmaceutical science.

Salary & Job Outlook:

Pharmaceutical Scientists working in academic institutions and colleges generally earn less than those working in industry and other scientific establishments. According to the salary survey conducted by the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists in 2013, the average salary for Pharmaceutical Scientists at academic institutions was $90,400 – $151,500. However, the professionals working at industry and other sectors, earned up to $105,000 – $180,000.