If you’ve completed pharmacy or life sciences, you’re probably asking yourself a familiar question:
“What next? Which career will give me growth, stability, and real purpose?”
You’re not alone. Thousands of science graduates feel the same confusion. Maybe you’ve explored pharmacy jobs, considered labs, or even thought about teaching but nothing feels exciting enough.
That’s exactly where clinical research becomes a game-changer.
This industry lets you contribute to life-saving medicines, breakthrough vaccines, and global healthcare improvements. Even better? Pharmacy and life science graduates are some of the most preferred candidates for these jobs.
So if you’re curious about how to start a career in clinical research after pharmacy or life sciences, this blog will walk you through everything, step by step.
What Makes Clinical Research a Great Career Choice?
Growing Demand for Research Professionals
The world needs safer medicines, better vaccines, and improved treatment options. Because of this:
- Clinical trials have increased rapidly
- Pharmaceutical companies are expanding
- CROs (Contract Research Organizations) are hiring aggressively
- Drug safety and data roles are skyrocketing
This makes clinical research one of the most secure and future-proof careers for science graduates.
Why Pharmacy & Life Science Graduates Fit Perfectly
Your background already gives you an edge.
You naturally understand:
- Drug interactions
- Human physiology
- Research basics
- Laboratory skills
- Documentation and ethics
This knowledge makes transitioning into clinical research much easier for you than for graduates from other fields.
What You Need Before Entering Clinical Research
Minimum Educational Requirements
| Degree | Eligible for Clinical Research? |
| B.Pharm / M.Pharm | Yes |
| Pharm.D | Yes |
| B.Sc in Life Sciences | Yes |
| M.Sc in Life Sciences | Yes |
| Biotechnology / Microbiology / Biochemistry | Yes |
Optional Certifications to Boost Your Resume
You don’t need certifications to get a job but they definitely help you stand out.
Recommended certifications:
- ICH-GCP Certification
- PG Diploma in Clinical Research
- Certification in Pharmacovigilance
- Clinical Data Management Certification
- Medical Writing Certification
You can try Academically’s Job Ready Program like Post Graduate Certificate in Clinical Research. This course can be completed in just 4 months and you will be fully trained to be job-ready.
Popular Job Roles for Freshers in Clinical Research
| Category | Job Role | What You Do (Simple Explanation) |
| Administrative & Coordination Roles | Clinical Trial Assistant (CTA) | Handles documentation, filing, and supports trial operations. |
| Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) | Manages day-to-day trial activities at hospitals/sites. | |
| Clinical Trial Coordinator | Ensures trial procedures are followed at site level. | |
| Clinical Research Assistant | Supports research teams with trial-related tasks. | |
| Clinical Project Assistant | Provides admin and project support to research teams. | |
| Data Management & Analysis Roles | Clinical Data Associate | Collects, verifies, and cleans clinical trial data. |
| Clinical Data Manager | Oversees data accuracy and manages trial databases. | |
| Biostatistician | Analyzes trial data using statistical methods. | |
| Clinical Data Review Associate | Reviews and validates data quality and accuracy. | |
| Regulatory & Quality Roles | Regulatory Affairs Assistant | Helps prepare documents for regulatory submissions. |
| Regulatory Affairs Specialist | Works with authorities for approvals and compliance. | |
| Quality Assurance (QA) Specialist | Ensures trials follow SOPs, GCP, and quality standards. | |
| Scientific & Medical Writing Roles | Medical Writer | Creates scientific documents (protocols, reports). |
| Research Analyst | Supports research activities and scientific writing. | |
| Safety-Related Roles | Pharmacovigilance Associate | Monitors and reports drug side effects during trials. |
Skills Needed to Start a Career in Clinical Research
Technical Skills
- Good Clinical Practice (GCP)
- Understanding clinical trial phases
- SOPs & documentation
- Basic biostatistics
- Regulatory guidelines (FDA, EMA, CDSCO)
Soft Skills
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Ethical decision-making
How to Start a Career in Clinical Research After Pharmacy or Life Sciences
Here’s your roadmap to starting a career in Clinical Research after pharmacy or life sciences:
Step 1: Understand the Field Before Jumping In
Spend a few days exploring:
- Job roles
- Skills needed
- Growth paths
- Salary trends
This gives you clarity and confidence.
Step 2: Build Essential Knowledge & Certifications
Here’s what works best for beginners:
| Certification | Useful For |
| GCP | Mandatory knowledge base |
| Clinical Research Certification | CRC, CTA, CRA |
| Pharmacovigilance Certification | PV Associate |
| Medical Writing Course | Writers & documentation roles |
| Data Management Course | CDM, Trial data roles |
Step 3: Create a Job-Ready Resume
Your resume should highlight:
- Research projects
- Lab experience
- Internships
- Certifications
- Seminars or workshops
Even if you’re a fresher, you can build a strong profile by reaching out to the experts at Academically. They will guide you through everything you need and also make you job-ready.
Step 4: Apply for Beginner-Friendly Roles
Start with entry-level positions like:
- CTA (Clinical Trial Assistant)
- CRC (Clinical Research Coordinator)
- PV Associate
- Junior CDM Associate
- Medical Writing Intern
These roles help you learn the basics quickly.
Step 5: Network Like a Pro
Networking opens more doors than you think.
Where to network?
- Webinars
- Clinical Research conferences
- Professional groups
A recruiter noticing your profile can change your entire career.
Step 6: Gain Experience Through Internships
Even short internships give you:
- Practical exposure
- Industry confidence
- A major advantage over other freshers
Top Companies Hiring Fresh Graduates
| Company Type | Examples |
| Global CROs | IQVIA, Parexel, ICON, Syneos Health |
| Indian CROs | Veeda, Accutest, Lambda |
| Pharma Companies | Pfizer, Novartis, Biocon |
| Hospitals | Apollo, Fortis, AIIMS |
| Healthcare MNCs | Tata 1mg, Baxter, Johnson & Johnson |
Salary Expectations in Clinical Research
| Experience Level | Expected Salary |
| Fresher | ₹2.8 LPA – ₹5 LPA |
| 1–3 Years | ₹4.5 LPA – ₹8 LPA |
| 3–5 Years | ₹6 LPA – ₹12 LPA |
| CRA Roles | Higher salaries, frequent hikes |
Common Challenges Freshers Face (And How to Beat Them)
| Challenge | Solution |
| Competition | Build skills + strong resume |
| Lack of experience | Do internships and shadowing |
| Confusion about roles | Attend webinars, talk to professionals |
| Low starting salary | Experience brings rapid growth |
Final Thoughts
Starting a career in clinical research after pharmacy or life sciences is one of the smartest decisions you can make today. The industry is growing, the demand is strong, and the work you do truly matters.
With the right skills, certifications, and clear direction, you can confidently enter this field and build a successful, fulfilling career.
If you still have any questions or doubts, you can reach out to the experts at Academically. You will get personalised career advice, so that you can make an informed decision.