Careersguide Medical Writing

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From academic
to medical writer
A guide to
getting started
in medical
communications
Written by Dr Annick Moon
Published by NetworkPharma
For more information about careers in MedComms see
www.FirstMedCommsJob.com
Teamwork in a nutshell
From tiny seeds, mighty giants grow.
This guide is one such seed, helping
talented people find their way from
academia into the complex and dynamic
world of medical communications.
At Darwin, we believe in the power of
words to make a difference, and words
that spark something new can be the
most potent of all. Thats why
were delighted to collaborate with
NetworkPharma and to sponsor this
guide for the sixth year running.
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Acknowledgements
Many thanks to the numerous members of the MedComms Networking Community who have contributed their thoughts and
comments during the development of this publication. If you have any feedback please let us know.
Further copies are available to download directly if you visit www.MedCommsNetworking.com/careersguide.pdf
Printed copies of this guide are also available if you contact the Publisher, Peter Llewellyn: peter@networkpharma.com
From academic to medical writer: a guide to getting started in medical communications

New edition published March 2016 by NetworkPharma Ltd
First published March 2009 by NetworkPharma Ltd
Magdalen Centre, Oxford Science Park, Oxford, OX4 4GA, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1865 784390
Web: www.networkpharma.com email: support@networkpharma.com
2016 NetworkPharma Ltd
A CIP catalogue record for this title is available from the British Library
ISBN: 978-1-905676-40-8
Managing Director: Peter Llewellyn; Production/editorial: Gill Gummer, Proactive Editorial Services Ltd proactive@cusbuster.co.uk;
Designed by: Steve Griffiths steve@grimalkin-consultancy.co.uk; Printed by: Holywell Press Ltd www.holywellpress.co.uk
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronically, mechanically,
recorded or otherwise, without written permission from the publisher.
The publisher and author have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this publication but cannot accept responsibility for any errors or
omissions. Registered names, trademarks etc. used in this publication, even when not marked as such, are not to be considered unprotected by law.
Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

For more information about careers in MedComms, see www.FirstMedCommsJob.com
Foreword to 2016 edition
This introduction to medical writing, first published in 2009, provides a useful resource for anyone
thinking of a career in medical communications and specifically in MedComms agencies in the UK.
Itprovides excellent support for the careers events that now run regularly in Oxford and elsewhere.
The Medical Sciences Division of the University of Oxford has been collaborating with
NetworkPharma since 2007 to run sessions aimed at showcasing career options within MedComms.
Each January, Oxford hosts a one-day introductory session which has proved very popular, not
only with Oxford research students and staff, but also nationally with applicants from far afield
participating. Intensive workshops held in May each year have been particularly successful in
identifying those who would thrive and build a successful career in MedComms. These events
include a speed-dating session, introducing attendees to prospective employers and giving
delegates as much insight as possible into life in the range of agencies available.
Both events are run as part of the University of Oxford Medical Sciences Skills Training Programme
and are now a firmly embedded feature. One factor that has contributed to the success of our
portfolio of careers events has been the combination of enthusiasm and professionalism of the
MedComms experts involved, and the Medical Sciences Division is very happy to continue to
work in collaboration with NetworkPharma to provide interested individuals with the opportunity
to explore this very popular career path.
Jane Rudman
Medical Sciences Skills Training Officer
University of Oxford
About the author

Annick is a freelance medical communications consultant and writer, living and
working in Oxford. After gaining a degree and doctorate in physiology from
Newcastle, she undertook post-doctoral research at Oxford and Manchester.
During her time as an academic, she was an editorial committee member for
the Physiological Societys magazine. Annick started her first job in medical
communications in 2001 and worked at various agencies until she set up her
freelance business in 2006 providing consultancy and writing services to the
pharmaceutical and biotech industries. She has collaborated with NetworkPharma for several years
on a series of careers events.
For more information see: www.moon-medical.com.
Contents

Introduction4
The pharmaceutical industry
5
What is MedComms?
7
MedComms agencies
8
So you want to be a medical writer...
11
Further information
15
People in the job in their own words
16
Directory MedComms
30
Directory careers support
38
Directory training
39

Introduction
After years of hard work, you finally got your doctorate. Or maybe youve done a few post-docs.
Lectureships are hard to come by and as one short-term contract begins its time to start looking
about for the next. Sound familiar? Time to leave academia, but feel like youve occupied a narrow
scientific niche for so long that youve specialised yourself out of the job market?
Leaving academia doesnt mean turning your back on science. Your vast scientific knowledge,
and your research and analytical skills are truly valuable ever thought about a career in medical
communications?
What is medical communications?
No
Journalism
Academic publishing
Yes
Providing consultancy services to the pharmaceutical industry to help raise
awareness of medicines
Medical communications provides consultancy

services to the pharmaceutical industry to help
raise awareness of medicines
About this guide
This guide focuses on medical writing careers in medical communications,
in particular in MedComms agencies. The MedComms industry provides
consultancy services to pharmaceutical companies, and the role of the medical
writer is to use science and language to deliver these services successfully, while
working to the highest ethical standards and adhering to industry regulations and
guidelines.
The aim of this guide is to give you the information you need to decide if you are
suited to the role of medical writer, and to provide the insider knowledge you
need to excel at interview.
Please see the profiles provided by people working in MedComms later in this
booklet for more insights into working in the industry.
For more information about starting out in MedComms and details of careers
events, past and future, visit:
The pharmaceutical
industry
A medicine starts out as a new chemical entity which, after many years of basic research, has
emerged as a potential treatment for a particular disease. To put this in context, consider that
from 10,000 promising new chemical entities, if one makes it to the first stage of a clinical trial,
the R&D department is doing well. The new chemical entity must then undergo many years of
clinical development, and must fulfil many criteria before eventually being approved for use as a
medicine.
Getting a drug from the laboratory through all of the necessary clinical trials and regulatory
administration, and approved for release on the healthcare market represents a major triumph for
a pharmaceutical company; indeed, developing a drug can take up to 15 years and the cost can
run into the billions but the story doesnt end there. To get doctors to prescribe the medicine,
you have to tell them about it, which usually involves marketing and communications activities:
ensuring that doctors are well informed about a new medicine is essential if it is to be used
appropriately and ultimately improve the health of many thousands of people.
To appreciate the scale of the from bench to
bedside process, it is first necessary to consider
the phases of clinical development.
Pre-clinical
Developing a drug can take up to

15 years and the cost can run into
the billions
Before a new drug can be tested in people, it

must undergo rigorous pre-clinical testing, both
in vitro and in suitable animal models; also known as non-clinical testing. During this phase,
important pharmacological data are obtained about drug dosing, and potential hazards and risks
are identified. This allows the regulatory authorities to make a risk assessment and consider the
drugs suitability for testing in humans.
Phase I
Once approved for testing in humans, Phase I can begin (sometimes known as first-time-in
man studies). Phase I studies typically involve a small number of healthy human volunteers in
whom the chemical toxicity and the clinical side-effects of the drug are investigated. Volunteers
receive various doses of the drug, and the aim is to determine the drugs pharmacokinetic and
pharmacodynamic profile in humans.
Phase II
After the initial safety testing in human volunteers is complete, the drug can be tested in patients.
The aim of a Phase II trial is to provide proof of principle and to assess the clinical benefits of
the drug, in addition to the side-effects, sometimes in comparison with placebo. The benefit/risk
profile of the drug is then used to plan the next phase of development.

Phase of clinical development
Description
Pre-clinical
Testing in vitro and in suitable animal models
Phase I
Testing in healthy human volunteers
Phase II
Testing in patients
Phase III
Testing in comparative trials
Phase IV
Post-marketing surveillance following the launch of

thedrug
Phase III
If the Phase II study shows the drug to provide a good clinical effect without producing
unacceptable side-effects, then a larger Phase III study can begin. A PhaseIII trial must compare
the new medicine with the current standard treatment for the disease or with placebo if there is
no suitable active comparator. A Phase III trial is designed to show a statistical difference between
the new drug and the comparator, and to establish its therapeutic benefit and side-effect profile.
If efficacy is established in Phase III trials, then all data are submitted to the regulatory agencies
who will decide whether the drug can be marketed based on the strength of evidence.
Phase IV
Phase IV trials are often referred to as post-marketing surveillance studies following a successful
Phase III trial the drug will have been approved and marketed, so a Phase IV trial is used to gather
information in large populations to assess the optimal use of the drug and any side-effects that
may not have been identified in a clinical trial setting.
Why does the pharmaceutical industry

need external consultants?
It makes financial sense for a pharmaceutical company to outsource certain activities to external
partners. From running a clinical trial to manufacturing a box for the medicine, the pharmaceutical
industry is supported by organisations and agencies, each with specialist expertise.

What is MedComms?
Agencies servicing the pharmaceutical industry provide expert consultancy on anything from
producing regulatory documentation to fulfil legal requirements to devising campaigns to help
market a drug. For most pharmaceutical products, a communications and publications programme
will run alongside the clinical development process, and will then support the launch of the drug
and ensure that the drug remains on the clinical radar for the duration of its patent (also known as
its lifecycle).
Types of agency
There are many types of agencies offering a range of differing services to the pharmaceutical
industry and it can be confusing trying to figure out which agency does what, especially as the
terminology is often used inconsistently. Some agencies concentrate on publications and medical
education (generally called MedComms or medical education agencies) the focus of this
booklet; others on legal and regulatory documentation or advertising. Some agencies offer a full
range of consultancy such as medical education, public relations, market research and advertising,
whereas others focus on a niche area.
Many of these agencies are part of a global group with sister-agencies covering the range of
healthcare communications and marketing services, and there are also many small independent
specialist agencies.
Whatever the service offered, the objective is always the same to educate and inform
stakeholders such as doctors, patients, nurses and hospital managers about innovations and
perspectives in healthcare.
Regulatory affairs:
Clinical trial documentation (Clinical Trial Applications and Investigational
New Drug Applications); Marketing Authorisation Applications; New Drug
Applications
Health economics:
Materials to support cost-effectiveness messages
Public relations:
Materials to communicate with the media; issues management
Medical education:
Support of publication activities, including: journal manuscripts and conference
presentations; advisory boards
Advertising and branding:

Trade press; consumer adverts; sales aids; direct mail; exhibition stand materials

MedComms agencies
MedComms agencies have their roots in medical education, and traditionally produce materials
such as journal manuscripts for peer review, learning resources, slide kits, and posters and
presentations for conferences. However, the boundaries are often blurred, and MedComms agencies
may also touch on media materials at the public relations end of the spectrum, or more promotional
materials at the commercial end of the spectrum (i.e. brochures, leaflets and animations).
MedComms agencies also advise the pharmaceutical industry on how best to educate and inform
their customers (i.e. doctors, nurses, hospital managers, pharmacists, patients) about the benefits
and risks of the therapy using clinical and economic data. All materials should comply with best
practice guidelines, as issued by bodies such as the European Medical Writers Association and the
International Society for Medical Publications Professionals (further details are available on page 15).
Why join a MedComms agency?

When it comes to getting broad writing experience, a MedComms agency is a good place to start
your career. One day youll be writing a highly technical document and using all of your scientific
and research skills, and the next youll
be using your creative powers to
summarise the entire document in one
diagram. Also, in a MedComms agency,
it is possible to find a job that suits you:
some people prefer the more scientific,
educational element of the job and are
happy to write nothing but technical
manuscripts and may focus very
specifically on narrow therapeutic fields, whereas others enjoy the challenge of a new therapy area
every week. Other people prefer the more creative element of writing a range of materials, or prefer
to be out of the office talking to clients.
When it comes to getting a broad

experience, a MedComms agency is a
good place to start your career
Which job?
As well as medical writing, there are numerous different roles within a MedComms agency, many
of which require a scientific background.
Account Manager
New media agency
You will manage a diverse range

of projects including on-line
disease awareness and patient
education websites, interactive
medical
Medical Editor
Healthcare Communications Agency

Proofing copy to the highest standard
for a full range of medical education and
communications materials including scientific
abstracts, papers, posters, oral presentations,
print items, and multimedia; professional
liaison with pharmaceutical industry key
contacts; managing and co-ordinating
materials through design.
Editorial Project Manager

Medical Education Agency
Are you an energetic, ambitious and

passionate individual with the desire
and potential to join one of the largest
healthcare communications agencies in
the UK?
Medical Writer
International MedComms
Suitable candidates will ideally have at least
18 months relevant writing experience with
a background in Medical Communications,
Clinical Research, Academic Research
or Publishing. A life science degree is
preferable. You will display excellent
organisational skills and acute attention to
detail.

Medical writing
A medical writer is part of a team of people who develop a communication strategy to help deliver
an effective campaign what are you going to say? Who are you going to say it to? When are you
going to say it? As a medical writer your job is to write high-quality, scientific copy for the wide
range of materials that a MedComms agency produces. Your role will also involve keeping an
eye on developments in any given
scientific field, recognising the big
players in the therapeutic area,
assessing the strategies used by your
clients competitors by monitoring
their activities, and identifying
opportunities to communicate your
clients information.
A medical writers job is to write

highquality, scientific copy for the wide
range of materials that a MedComms
agency produces
Attending conferences, and advisory

board and standalone meetings is a large part of agency life, so if you like travelling, this is a
definite perk. Most medical writers have visited a few of the major conference venues of Europe,
such as Prague, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Munich, Nice, Rome and Milan,
and also popular global venues such as Cancun, Toronto and Sydney. However, although you may
find yourself staying at a nice hotel, you might not get much sleep.
Writing and
strategic development
External experts
Medical writer
Pharmaceutical client
Primary papers
Reviews
Case studies
Conference materials
Newsletters
Monographs
Websites
Videos
Slide kits
Build relationships
Liaise with designers,
writers, editors,
account managers,
project managers
Medical editing
Many agencies combine the role of writing and editing. In such agencies a medical writer is
not only expected to produce original articles but also to be able to edit other writers work
checking it for scientific accuracy, and grammatical and editorial errors. Some agencies split this
role, employing both medical writers and editors. In such agencies, medical editors tend to have
a wider function, adding proofreading and print production skills to their editing role. In terms
of entering an agency as a trainee, agencies more commonly recruit writers than editors. Trainee
editors are often known as editorial assistants.
Account management
An account manager/executive is responsible for making sure that projects are delivered on
time and on budget. This role includes tasks such as preparing cost estimates, tracking projects,
liaising with internal team members and external suppliers, negotiating with clients and preparing
10
invoices. Usually, account managers progress to become account directors, a position that may
additionally involve looking for new business opportunities and promoting the agency to potential
clients (although some agencies employ dedicated sales staff). Account managers often have a
scientific background, but it is not essential.
Event management
Attending conferences, and advisory boards and standalone meetings is a large part of agency life.
Events managers are involved in all aspects of event management, including the production of
materials to promote the events, sourcing venues, programme development, and booking flights
and hotel rooms for attendees. A scientific background is not essential for this role, and many
people come to the job from a background in hospitality or event management.
Entry requirements
A PhD in life-sciences is the usual entry requirement for a medical writer joining MedComms, and
many applicants have post-doc experience, although candidates with any relevant post-graduate
qualification may be considered. If you have a science degree or other health-related degree (e.g.
nursing, physiotherapy), but no post-graduate qualification, work experience in the publishing or
pharmaceutical sectors will probably be needed.
Career progression
A new medical writer will largely be trained on the job, your work being reviewed during this
period by a more senior writer. Many agencies also have structured training programmes and you
may get to attend external courses. For most new medical writers it will take about a year to lose
the trainee status (regardless of your job title when you start). After about 6 months of being a
trainee, it starts to become frustrating (and sometimes horrible) having your work picked-apart;
however, it takes a few years to gain experience and to learn how to plan and produce a range of
materials, and it is worth being patient and establishing a good foundation.
Whatever position you choose as a starting point, once in the industry there is scope to change
direction and to progress in various ways. The editorial route leads from medical writer to senior
writer; beyond this, job specifications tend to vary between agencies, offering the opportunity
to define and develop your career according to your strengths. Some writers choose to focus on
writing in roles such as principal writer and editorial team leader; others do less writing, focusing
more on managing and directing accounts.
Earning potential
Starting salaries vary between agencies, and depend upon your age and experience. Trainee
writers leaving academia with a PhD or another higher degree, or with post-doc experience,
can expect a ballpark of 2530K. It is often a source of frustration to trainees with post-doc
experience that they have started on a similar salary as someone straight out of their doctorate;
dont be disheartened. If you are a bit older, with more experience and knowledge, it is likely you
will progress more quickly than someone younger. For older people with many years of academic
experience or for professionals from other relevant backgrounds (e.g. healthcare or publishing),
starting salaries may be higher than a trainee rate. However, starting salaries are no indication of
career progression and earning potential, and the rate at which your salary increases depends on
how you progress. Experienced MedComms professionals are in demand, particularly those with
extensive writing skills it is not unknown for a writer to go from being a trainee to running their
own department, or even their own company, within a few years.
So you want to be a
medical writer...
Theres an equation to describe medical writers:
Likes science likes writing = medical writer
Training to be a medical writer is hard work as, despite your scientific background and your
extensive publication record, theres still a lot to learn.
Common characteristics of a medical

writer in no particular order
Established scientist
A doctorate and post-doc experience will be advantageous when applying for a job as a writer. The
basic entry requirement is a science degree.
Enjoys writing
You are the type of person who enjoyed writing your thesis rather than seeing it as a
necessaryevil.
Good listener
Whereas in academia your opinion about your research area was valued, in MedComms, although
youll be expected to have a good knowledge of numerous therapeutic areas, your opinion may
not be asked for. You will be required to listen to the client and the medical experts, and to
communicate their opinions.
Excellent research skills

You will be expected to learn numerous new clinical fields very quickly. Although its always nice
to get a project that is related to your research background, this doesnt happen very often. For
example, your existing knowledge may be in microbiology, but you may be expected to become
an expert in psychiatry. You will have to be able to research new areas and to discuss the diseases
with confidence in a variety of situations. This may seem like a daunting task, but youll be
surprised at how far the research skills you developed during your doctorate can carry you.
Pedantic
If the use of an apostrophe in a plural word makes your blood boil, or if you have ever told
someone that it is 10 items or fewer not 10 items or less then you are a true pedant. This type of
pedantry is often called attention to detail.

11
12
Comfortable with statistics

You dont have to be an expert in statistics, but presenting data and making them easy for doctors
to understand will be part of your job. Medical statistics are a far cry from the odd t-test you had
to do for your doctorate, and whereas you wont be expected to number crunch, you will have to
produce evidence-based arguments based on clinical data. A basic understanding of the analyses
used in clinical trials will be essential, and you should find that you quickly learn various statistical
concepts that are commonly used in clinical research.
Thick-skinned
It may seem like a step backwards going from being a respected scientist to being a trainee, and
learning to be a writer will be tough to begin with. You will hand over a piece of work on which
you have spent hours, only to have it covered in comments by a senior writer. Nevertheless, if
you stick with it, you will gradually develop a set of much sought-after skills. Once you become
an experienced writer, this still doesnt mean that people will love every word you write many a
beautiful piece of work has been picked apart by a client so you have to be able to deal with it,
and re-write it numerous times if necessary.
Applying for your first

medical writing job
Preparing a good CV is essential when applying for any job, but when applying to be a writer,
editorial accuracy is extremely important. Unlike other sectors, your CV and covering letter will be
assessed by a panel of editors who will spot grammatical errors, spelling mistakes and clumsy
sentences, and these things will not be forgiven. Also be careful about posts on social media that
are in the public domain. Joining forums relevant to the job may be viewed favourably, but your
posts will be scrutinised. Even posts that have no relevance to medical writing may be used to
see if you are a suitable candidate, and whereas offensive comments attributed to you in the
public domain are obviously going to be disadvantageous, even seemingly harmless posts may
reveal your inability to construct a sentence.
Writing experience outside of your

academic work will help get you noticed
Additional experience
Writing experience outside of your academic work will help get you noticed and will show that
you have a genuine interest in communications. Getting published is easier than you think. Many
of the academic societies produce a publication for their members and the editor will be happy
to consider your contribution. For example, the Physiological Society produces Physiology News,
a quarterly magazine, and the Genetics Society produces Genetics Society News, a bi-annual
newsletter. Or if you are feeling really ambitious, you could enter a science writers competition.

Transferable skills
When leaving academia it is very easy to understate your skills and experience. Something
you may consider to be a mundane everyday task may represent a valuable skill to a potential
employer.
Skill
Example
Writing
Doctoral thesis, peer-reviewed manuscripts, slide

presentations, conference posters/abstracts, grant
applications
Presentation skills
Transfer talk, conference presentations, journal club
Project management
Designing experiments and scheduling resources
Project leading and mentoring
Mentoring project students, teaching/demonstrating
Teamwork
Liaising with colleagues and collaborating with other

research groups
Discussing science with experts
Confidently discussing complex issues with leading

experts (e.g. in the pub on a Friday night)
The writing test

As part of the interview process, you will be asked to do a writing test. Sometimes this will be
before you are invited to interview, and sometimes after your first interview. There is no industry
standard for the test. Examples of what you may be asked to write include:
an abstract for a poster or a manuscript
a mini review based on a small number of papers that have been supplied
a news article based on a conference report, manuscript or other background documents
a conference report based on a slide presentation and abstract book.
Whatever the task, it is important that you prepare properly. Even if your writing skills are
excellent, you are unlikely to be an expert in drafting clinical documents or on the rules of writing
marketing copy for a medicine. Dont worry though, because the reviewers will not expect you to
be an expert, but they will be looking for:
attention to detail avoid spelling mistakes and grammatical errors
structure and flow provide a well-structured document with a logical flow of ideas
simplicity dont overcomplicate the project by doing extensive background research
about the disease; it is unlikely that a writing test will need this, and the test nearly always
involves reporting the information you have been given.
The agency will probably give you a guide to how long the test should take. You may find that it
takes quite a bit longer, but this is fine and is often the case. If you go over the suggested time by
days, rather than hours, maybe consider other roles within the agency.

13
14
Using your initiative can make all the difference when it comes to getting through the writing test.
For example, if you are asked to write a newsletter aimed at nurses, buy a copy of Nursing Times to
get an idea of pitch and tone. Also, there are many guides to medical writing available, which are
definitely worth a read before attempting the test. How to Publish in Biomedicine, by Jane Fraser, gives
excellent advice and tips (further details are available on facing page).
However, sometimes using too much initiative can be an applicants downfall. If you already know
someone who is a medical writer, it is fine to ask for advice, but do not ask them to do the test for
you. The people reviewing your test will know what standard to expect based on the experience
outlined on your CV. If you get offered the job based on dishonesty, you will be found out when
the work you produce on your own falls below the standard of your test.
As well as a writing test, you may be asked to complete an editing test to assess your eye for
detail. If you use standard editing marks, this will be viewed favourably, although this is not what
is being tested so it is fine to mark-up the mistakes using whatever method suits you.
Editing test
The following editing test contains 20 editorial errors these include errors of spelling,
punctuation, grammar, consistency or meaning. For fun, how many can you spot?
(Answers on page 15.)
Over a median followup of 8.4 years, 64 patients (9.7%) experienced disease recurrence
(median time to recurrence 5.6 years). The 5, 10- and 15year recurrence-free probabilites
were 0.93, 0.87, and 0.81, respectivly. Using time-to-event estimates to adjust for
differences in follow-up between groups, radiotherapy was found to reduce tumour
recurrence in patients who received a sub-total resection (p<0.001) but not in those
undergoing gross-total resection of the tumor (p=0.63). Multivariate analysis identified
cavernous sinus invasion (hazard ration 3.6, 95% CI 1.5-6.4, p<0.001) and STR without
radiotherpy (HR 3.6, 95% CI 1.414, p=.01) predictive of an increase in disease recurrence.
Median follow-up for overall survival was 14.0 year. The 5-, 10-, 15- and 20-year estimates
for overall survival were 0.91, 0.81, 0.69 and 0.55, respectively. Mortality was higher
in patients who underwent radiotherapy with or without SRT than would have been
expected in the general USA population.
The interview
Most agencies select candidates based on one short interview, or perhaps two. Ive never heard
of MedComms agencies running day-long interviews, or asking candidates to undergo tests not
directly related to writing. By the time you have been invited to an interview, you should have
passed the writing test, although some agencies may ask you to complete another short writing
test when you attend the interview. If this is the case, they should let you know before what to
expect. You may be asked to give a presentation, but again, you will be told what you need to
prepare before the interview.

Further information
Useful books
Professional bodies
Creating Effective Conference Abstracts

and Posters in Biomedicine.
Jane Fraser, Louise Fuller and
Georgina Hutber, CRC Press, 2009.
Available from www.crcpress.com
ISBN-13 9781846193118
Association of the British Pharmaceutical

Industry www.abpi.org.uk
Getting Research Published,

An A-Z of Publication Strategy Third Edition.
Elizabeth Wager, CRC Press, 2015.
ISBN-13 9781785231384
Guidelines for Reporting Health Research:
A Users Manual.
David Moher (Editor), Douglas Altman (Editor),
Kenneth Schulz (Editor), Iveta Simera (Editor),
Elizabeth Wager (Editor), Wiley-Blackwell, 2014.
Available from www.wiley.com
ISBN-13 9780470670446
How to Publish in Biomedicine Second Edition.
Jane Fraser, CRC Press, 2008.
ISBN-13 9781846192630
European Medical Writers

Association www.emwa.org
Healthcare Communications
Association www.hca-uk.org
International Society for Medical Publication
Professionals www.ismpp.org
Society for Editors and Proofreaders
www.sfep.org.uk
Pharmaceutical industry
news, views and
information
MedComms Networking
www.medcommsnetworking.com
PharmaFile www.pharmafile.com
pharmaphorum www.pharmaphorum.com
PharmaTimes www.pharmatimes.com
Careers support
FirstMedCommsJob
www.firstmedcommsjob.com
NextMedCommsJob
www.nextmedcommsjob.com
Pharmaceutical Executive
www.pharmexec.com
PMLiVE www.pmlive.com
The Publication Plan
www.thepublicationplan.com
or without SRT STR than would have been expected in the general USA population.
and 0.55, respectively. Mortality was higher in patients who underwent radiotherapy with
14.0 years. The 5-, 10-, 15- and 20-year estimates for overall survival were 0.91, 0.81, 0.69
predictive of an increase in disease recurrence. Median follow-up for overall survival was
[CI] 1.56.4, p<0.001) and STR without radiotherapy (HR 3.6, 95% CI 1.414, p=0.01) as
identified cavernous sinus invasion (hazard ration [HR] 3.6, 95% confidence interval
in those undergoing gross-total resection of the tumour (p=0.63). Multivariate analysis
tumour recurrence in patients who received a sub-total resection (STR) (p<0.001) but not
adjust for differences in follow-up between groups, radiotherapy was found to reduce
probabilities were 0.93, 0.87,_ and 0.81, respectively. Using time-to-event estimates to
(median time to recurrence 5.6 years). The 5-, 10- and 15-year recurrence-free
Over a median follow-up of 8.4 years, 64 patients (9.7%) experienced disease recurrence
Answers
15
16
Matthew Bexon
Medical Writer,
inScience Communications,
part of Springer Healthcare
While my route into medical writing was probably not the most
traditional, it certainly gave me a lot of valuable experience that
Iuse on a day-to-day basis.
After graduating I decided to forgo further education and
began looking for jobs; toying with the idea of teaching, I began
working in a secondary school supporting children with special
educational needs. While it was a rewarding role I didnt feel challenged enough and I wanted to
make better use of my degree.
After deciding teaching wasnt for me, I began to look for more scientific roles, and with no
particular job in mind I kept a wide view and looked at a number of industries. Eventually I found
a role within a scientific publishing company scanning journal content for articles of interest to
pharmaceutical companies. This role gave me a great overview of scientific publishing as well as
insights into the pharmaceutical industry. After gaining valuable experience within the industry
Ibegan to look at medical writing careers, as I had always enjoyed writing and this felt like the
next logical step in my career. After applying for a role with inScience Communications and
successfully completing the writing test I accepted a position as an associate medical writer.
Within the first few months I had a lot to learn but rapidly gained experience drafting various
deliverables such as meeting posters, manuscripts, slide sets, apps, websites and satellite
symposia material to name a few, as well as having the
opportunity to go onsite and assist at a congress, a
great learning experience. Despite being relatively new
I quickly became a valued member of the team both
inhouse and externally with clients and vendors.
One of the main things I enjoy

about medical writing is that
every day is different
A year later I was promoted to medical writer having

gained more responsibility within my accounts,
more experience onsite and greater exposure to a variety of projects. A particular highlight was
delivering ten events at one meeting over 4 days! Ive always enjoyed learning and over the past
2 years Ive learnt (and continue to learn) a lot about the pharmaceutical industry as well as many
diseases and therapy areas.
The clear progression pathway of medical writing is attractive and gives me something to strive
towards. One of the main things I enjoy about medical writing is that every day is different, always
bringing new experiences, and I value the opportunity to continually learn and challenge myself.

Scientific Director, GeoMed, part of the

Ashfield Division of UDG Healthcare plc
I love my job I couldnt imagine doing anything else. No day is
the same; I could be supporting authors with developing a paper
on a clinical trial, or liaising with consultants to write a slide set
to educate physicians on an important disease or I could be at an
international conference taking notes on the latest therapeutic
intervention. But how did I get here? I certainly didnt plan on
being in the medical writing profession, but I am really glad that
Iam! Let me share with you my journey.
I have always loved learning. I initially studied a degree and a PhD in chemistry at Manchester
University, and I was subsequently able to secure a fantastic 2-year post-doc in Switzerland in
chemistry. Following that I worked in industry as a chemist for 2 years, and then, at the time of my
now-husbands relocation and move to a new job, I decided to look for a new challenge for my
career. I wanted to learn new things in science and medicine, to satisfy my hunger for knowledge,
and I was fortunate enough to see an article in a newspaper about medical writing and began to
research what I would need to do to secure a position as a trainee medical writer.
I was able to get an interview at GeoMed and I was determined that I would show the company
that I was passionate about science, that I could interpret data and that I was confident that
Icould articulate my understanding in writing to communicate science to others. I had success!
Iwas determined to work hard and the first year as a trainee was certainly a steep learning curve.
The hard work and determination paid off over the
years Iwas promoted to medical writer, then to senior
medical writer and then again to my current role as
scientific director.
The exposure to disease areas

has been fascinating, and the
variety of work so stimulating
Eleven years on and I havent looked back except to

say that I have had the pleasure to meet some of the
most intelligent, driven, articulate and fun people along
my journey friends that I will have for life! The exposure to disease areas has been fascinating,
and the variety of work so stimulating, and has included working on: publications, scientific
posters, slides, training kits, newsletters, product monographs and sales aids.
GeoMed is a truly fantastic place to work the teamwork, support, knowledge and dedication to
the work is second-to-none. The social side is good too we have just had Pizza Tuesday, there
is bowling next week and Cake Wednesday, where people take it in turns to bake a cake for
everyone to enjoy.
My advice would be that if you love science, medicine and learning, and if you feel that you can
express your knowledge in a logical manner via different communication channels, and attention
to detail is important to you, then this may also be the job for you!
As for my future, well, Im relocating again (with my husbands job), but this time my job is coming
with me as I will be a home worker GeoMed will provide me with remote IT facilities so I get to
stay with a company and job that I love! I am happy that I embarked on the journey into medical
writing all those years ago.

17
Catherine Bragg
18
Anna Bousfield
Senior Healthcare Copywriter,
H4B Manchester
(part of the Havas Lynx Group)
Today, I interviewed someone living with multiple sclerosis.
Yesterday, I wrote a voiceover script for an animation video. Next
week, Im writing tweets and Facebook posts for a new social
media campaign. And besides the amazing people and the free
biscuits, thats what I love most about my job no 2 hours are
ever the same, let alone days.
When I left the University of Sheffield with a degree in neuroscience, I had no idea what I wanted
to do. All I really knew was what I didnt want to do. I didnt want to go into research labs were
the bit I enjoyed least at uni, they never seemed to go as planned. And I didnt want to go into
medicine too much pressure! But what I did go into was the nearest bar, where I managed to
get a part-time job whilst I pulled myself together and asked myself the question I had asked a
thousand times before what would I be?
Looking back, I should have known. At school I loved English literature and seemed to excel in
science, particularly biology. Combine the two and what do you get? A writer who writes about
science, health, wellbeing. But at the time, I didnt know that existed. My first job in the industry
was as an editorial assistant at a traditional MedComms company. Whilst I learnt a lot, I knew it
wasnt the job for me. It was heavily based in science research publications, posters, abstracts.
Iwas looking for something a bit different. I was craving a bit more creativity. But science and
creativity seemed a million miles apart to me. Then I began working at H4B Manchester.
I got the job very much by chance. A friend mentioned the company to me and, although Id never
heard of them, I really liked their ethos. After an initial interview, I knew it was the place for me.
And now, four and a half years later, I wouldnt change a thing. Ive managed to achieve the perfect
balance between science and creativity that I never
knew was possible. This means I can write about the
mode of action of a new treatment in the morning, and
then work on creative concepts for a disease awareness
campaign in the afternoon.
I get to meet some amazing

people in my job and try to
learn a little something from
each and every one of them
At H4B Manchester, we see people as people not as

patients. And its the people that I work with who keep
me going when it can sometimes get a bit hairy. I love
working with different people, collaborating and sharing
ideas, working on concepts until the late evening just to have the moment where we know weve
hit on something big! From scientists to designers. From writers to motion graphic experts. I get to
meet some amazing people in my job and try to learn a little something from each and every one
of them.
My advice to you? If you love science, medicine, people, writing, creativity, then a job as a
healthcare copywriter might just be right for you. Dont assume all medical writing is just about
the science. Of course the science is key; it lays the ground rules. But its also about the people.
People and their personal stories. Its up to us to tell these stories. And its down to you how you
want to tell them.

Ben Dean
Medical Writer,
7.4 Limited
I work as a medical writer now, but just over 3 years ago Iknew
practically nothing about medical science. Id just spent 4years
collecting behavioural data for my DPhil in zoology by glueing
GPS receivers, pressure gauges and accelerometers to seabirds.
For me, the lab was already a dim and distant memory, and
I had only the vaguest idea of how a clinical trial worked
or what the difference was between pharmacokinetics and
pharmacodynamics.
So why medical writing? For me, it wasnt about escaping academia, it was about practicalities.
I loved research, but when I finished my DPhil, my options for continuing in academia were in
other cities or other countries, and I needed to stay around Oxford. Besides which, I didnt really
fancy having to scratch around for funding every couple of years, or run the gauntlet of the journal
review process for the rest of my working life.
Thinking that the only transferable skill I had to offer was data analysis, I sat down to look for
analytical jobs in Oxford, hoping to find something that would make use of my scientific training.
Luckily, one of the first companies I applied to came straight back to say that my CV and covering
letter were really nicely written and would I be interested in applying as a medical writer?
I had no idea what a medical writer was, so I did a bit of research and came across a few pieces
like this one, by scientists working as writers. It seemed like an interesting job that ticked many of
the boxes that were important to me and this has been borne out by an enjoyable first 3 years.
Its a job that allows you to apply your scientific training to new challenges and learn about new
areas of science. There are opportunities in a wide variety of agencies working on different types
of projects, be it publications, symposia and workshops, or websites and animations. Some
agencies really embrace the use of visually engaging
data visualisations, so if, like me, you love making data
beautiful as well as accurate and informative, there are
opportunities out there to exercise any artistic talents
alongside your scientific skills. Thats why I eventually
moved on from my first agency to 7.4. So, while you
might need to move around a little bit until you find
the right agency for you, theres bound to be a good fit
out there. And good writers are always in demand, so
theres excellent job security, support and camaraderie
if working in an established agency, and the potential for freelancing if you ever need the
flexibility in the future.
Its a job that allows you to

apply your scientific training to
new challenges and learn about
new areas of science
If that sounds like the sort of thing youd like, you should consider applying for medical writing
jobs. Most agencies will appreciate a well thought out CV and covering letter as a first point of
contact. This is your opportunity to show them that you can write, communicate information
clearly and apply high editorial standards. If they like what they see, youll most likely be asked to
complete a writing test, followed by an interview or two.
So even if youve never heard of MedComms, even if youve no idea what the difference between
pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics is, and especially if your background is in something
interesting like zoology why not give it a go?

19
20
Philip Ford
Director of Scientific Strategy,
inVentiv Health
My story starts in much the same way as that of most of my
colleagues: I found scientific research could be extremely
rewarding, but those moments were sparse, and it felt like
something was missing.
The major portion of my career has been in what you might call
traditional MedComms. I worked for the Nucleus Group for
8years in both Asia Pacific and Europe on educational meetings,
publications and advisory boards: all the traditional deliverables. Once you master these,
develop your network of healthcare providers and have a deep understanding of how a
pharmaceutical product is developed and commercialised, the plan is that youve earned the right
to advise a client on their strategy, and its been my privilege to be involved in putting together
and executing the global strategies for six blockbuster products in recent years.
I recently joined InVentiv Health and, after 15 years in MedComms, I was surprised that Im seeing
things from a different angle again. A large part of the company philosophy is to approach a
problem based on insight. That process goes something like this: 1) define the size and shape of
the problem with the best intelligence available; 2) put that intelligence in front of the best minds
you can gather and have them debate it; 3) propose a solution to your client that brings together
that insight, challenged by those with experience of what actually works. The really interesting
thing at InVentiv is what can happen when you have the ability to bring together best-in-class
MedComms, advertising and PR agencies. The longer Ive
spent in the industry the more Ive seen that effective
solutions rarely come from a single discipline and that
the very best work is the result of bringing together the
different ways of thinking from across various functions.
Its been my privilege to be

involved in putting together
and executing the global
strategies for six blockbuster
products in recent years
My current role means I do a lot less of the day-to-day

writing and producing, but still the most satisfying aspect
of all this for me is when I sit in a room surrounded by
the sharpest minds in the field and get to listen to them
interpret new data and get excited about how, back in
the real world, this will change things for their patients.
Its a privilege, but also a great responsibility. In taking these interpretations, and using them to
help a client put together a plan for their product and ensure that it is used as it should be, it
is essential that you are a strong link in the very long chain that has got a product to where it is:
researchers, clinical scientists, regulatory experts, patent attorneys, marketers, volunteers and
patients have all contributed a significant amount along the way, and a medical writer can play a
significant part in ensuring all of that effort is properly described and understood.
I hesitate greatly to give advice (it makes me feel old if nothing else), but I would encourage
anyone who wants to make a success of themselves in this industry to expose themselves to as
many sides of it as possible, and always have the courage to challenge, as long as your opinion is
based on the best possible insights.

Medical Writer,
Oxford PharmaGenesis
As an aspiring scientist, I was always certain that I would spend
my career in the laboratory, working on cutting-edge research
and helping to contribute to healthcare breakthroughs. After
4years of post-doctoral research, I was running out of steam and,
surprisingly, I found myself more interested in reading and
writing papers than in working at the bench. When I first heard
about MedComms, it was an unknown and mysterious field to
me. However, after attending a networking event at the
University of Oxford, I was convinced that I would be well suited to a career in medical writing and,
more importantly, that I would enjoy it.
I have now been working as a medical writer at Oxford PharmaGenesis for 2 years. Although it was
a difficult decision to leave scientific research, I have not looked back! I have been involved in
many different projects in various disease areas and have had the opportunity to travel overseas
to attend and provide support at a range of
scientific meetings. The work is varied and
it is definitely not a case of writing research
manuscripts all day. I work on a broad spectrum
of materials, including manuscripts, slide decks,
training and patient educational materials,
product monographs, systematic reviews,
regulatory material and more. I feel that I am
still involved in helping patients by enabling
high-quality clinical research to be published
in peer-reviewed journals. Furthermore, Oxford
PharmaGenesis is involved in developing
evidence-based policy initiatives with an aim of improving global health. This requires political as
well as scientific and economic insight, and therefore involves a HealthScience approach.
Learning about a variety of diseases

and exciting new products, as well
as knowing that our work makes
a difference, definitely keeps me
interested and motivated
I was surprised at how easy the transition from bench scientist to medical writer has been.
The skills that I had already acquired in the laboratory have been readily applied to writing:
attention to detail, literature research and critical evaluation of data are all very important. Oxford
PharmaGenesis offers a supportive training environment in which you can hone your skills on the
job and are part of the team from day one. Learning about a variety of diseases and exciting new
products, as well as knowing that our work makes a difference, definitely keeps me interested and
motivated.
If you are looking for a career in which you are involved in cutting-edge science without having to
do the practical work, I would highly recommend medical writing.

21
Elizabeth Hartfield
22
Amy Jackson
Editorial Director,
Fishawack Communications
I was an unutterable square at school. Secondary school that is
at primary school I was delightful, happily skipping for hours on
end and ordering and re-ordering my excellent rubber collection;
there was no sign at all of the unfortunate quadrilateral that
was later to emerge. I loved learning. I loved everything
English, languages, sciences, maths and the humanities. This
(considerably less gifted) love child of Newton and Austen
was born for GCSEs. But what was to become of me? Choosing
A-levels and then a degree course was tough as I vacillated dramatically between wanting to
concentrate on the arts and the sciences. So I did what any sensible vacillator would do I did a
mishmash of A-levels and went on to study archaeology and anthropology. Plenty of science in
archaeology (no, really), none in social anthropology (yay!) and lots in biological anthropology
(clues in the name). I then went on to do an MPhil at Cambridge in biological anthropology (my
favourite). So, like most medical writers, I was a square, but unlike most writers I neither have a
strong science background nor a PhD.
Still pursuing my dream of not wanting to specialise, I fell into scientific publishing in London. It
was a solid training ground: I honed my eye for detail and mastered the skill of getting to grips
with totally unfamiliar subjects quickly. However, after a few years, I sought a new challenge, this
time in MedComms (somehow, editing the Lichenologist didnt feel like the glamorous publishing
job of my dreams). Iwould never have heard of the industry unless a friend (with a proper science
background) had made the leap. He took me on,
forgetting that I was cut from a different cloth. From
solid editing, I took a hybrid editing/writer job and then
changed agencies to work at Medicus International as a
medical writer.
If you like writing and can pick

up new areas quickly, medical
writing could be for you
Forced out of London by the cost of housing, we fell

upon value-for-money Oxford (so nave!) and I secured
a senior writer job at Fishawack. After more than
8 years, Im still here. I am now involved in line management and resourcing but still enjoy being
able to write a wide variety of materials for a range of media. It continues to be a thrill to interact
with world-renowned experts, and its also an eye-opening experience at times. It is humbling to
take their gift their ideas and wrap it up in prose that is accessible. At times I am even able to
see how what we do makes a difference.
My message is that it doesnt matter what youve studied at university or what youve studied
since, if you like writing and can pick up new areas quickly, medical writing could be for you. Throw
your mass spectrometer in the air and apply today!

Senior Medical Writer,

highfield:communication
One of the most enjoyable aspects of my PhD was the
opportunity to present my research at congresses and in
publications. At university I was also very involved in several
public outreach science communication events and so, when
Ifirst heard about medical writing, I was immediately attracted
by the unique blend of science and communication.
After attending a MedComms Networking event, I joined Oxford
PharmaGenesis as a medical writer before I had even graduated. In the end, I had to use the first
few days of my precious annual leave for my viva not much of a holiday!
When I started working, I soon realised that my writing skills were not quite refined enough to
meet the high expectations of my very experienced writing mentor, our exacting editorial team or
indeed our demanding client. After spending my first few months revising (and sometimes
re-revising) many of my drafts and after some excellent training from my mentor I eventually
settled into my role as a proper professional writer. As well as learning the tools of the trade,
Ialso became familiar with respiratory medicine and oncology, and gained exposure to a wide
variety of MedComms projects from traditional congress publications and advisory boards to
client-internal strategy documents.
After three enjoyable years at PharmaGenesis, I was offered the opportunity to join
highfield:communication (h:c). For me, the most exciting aspect of my role is the chance to learn
about different therapy areas from clinicians and
researchers who are true leaders in their field. At
h:c, I am fortunate to be working directly with many
of the key experts in the anti-infectives therapy
area. I also enjoy the close working relationship
that we have with our clients; we really are part of
their team, and they involve us in their internal
meetings (and share all the latest insider industry
news). Its very satisfying to be treated as a strategic
partner rather than just a service provider. The
close integration with our clients also allows us to
develop a deep understanding of their products
and marketing objectives so we can deliver insightful consultancy projects and content aligned
with their strategic objectives.
For me, the most exciting aspect

of my role is the chance to learn
about different therapy areas
from clinicians and researchers
who are true leaders in their field
Im sure youve guessed it by now I really enjoy my work. Its much more varied than Ifirst
thought it would be; indeed, the writing element of the job title is merely a technical
prerequisite for the really interesting projects that the industry has to offer. Once youve acquired
the basic skills, you can start to focus on international meetings, publication planning, strategy
and consultancy.
Right, Im off to finish reviewing that manuscript draft and then I might check my air mile balance
see you at the next congress?

23
Andreas Leidenroth
24
Phil Long
Associate Medical Writer,
Darwin Healthcare Communications
While studying pharmacology as an undergraduate at the
University of Sunderland, I decided to take a sandwich
placement for 1 year at the MRC in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne,
investigating changes in neurotransmitter receptors in
schizophrenia and dementia. I found this work fascinating,
and it helped me decide that I wanted to study neuroscience
further, leading me to carry out a PhD at the School of Pharmacy
in London. Following this, I took up a position as a post-doc
research associate at Kings College London and, subsequently, UCL. I worked on a variety of
fascinating subjects during this time, including Parkinsons disease, intellectual disability, rare
childhood epilepsies and synapse formation. However, after the 1-year sandwich placement, the
4-year PhD and the 8 years as a post-doc, I was finding
various aspects of academic life immensely frustrating.
In addition to trying to determine for the 464th time
why my western blot wasnt working or why my PCR
was producing the wrong-sized bands, the short-term
nature of the positions and job insecurity were very
discouraging. I saw many talented researchers struggle
to gain funding, and I ended up working on a number of
contracts that lasted only a few months at a time. I was beginning to feel that I was in need of a
new challenge, finally coming to the conclusion that maybe academia wasnt for me after all, and
Itherefore made the decision to pursue a new career.
I havent regretted my decision

to enter the MedComms
industry for a second
I began to attend lots of careers events and spoke to friends who had already made the decision
to leave academia in order to explore my career options further. I started to think about areas of
my job that I enjoyed the most and realised that as well as being near cutting-edge developments
in science and medicine, communicating science to others was something I found hugely
satisfying. I had attended a MedComms career day and knew a few people who had already made
the transition into MedComms, so I realised that this was an area that ticked all the right boxes
and decided to take the plunge myself.
I applied for a position as an associate medical writer at Darwin Healthcare Communications
and was given a writing test and a couple of interviews before thankfully being offered the job.
Having worked my entire academic career in neuroscience, I was suddenly introduced to a whole
host of therapy areas that I hadnt encountered since my undergraduate days and that I needed
to refamiliarise myself with. Ive since worked on a wide variety of projects, had interactions
with clients and key opinion leaders and spent (a rather hectic) time onsite at an international
conference.
During the past year, Ive been fortunate to work with a great team at Darwin. Everyone has been
friendly and supportive since the start and has shown a great willingness to show me the ropes.
I havent regretted my decision to enter the MedComms industry for a second and I cant wait to
experience more.

Medical Writer, Prime Medica, part of

The Prime Medical Group
As I was reaching the end of a biochemistry degree, my friends
were about to embark on their PhDs or teaching courses and
Iwas left feeling uncertain about which path I should take.
Although a PhD seemed like the next logical move, the highlight
of my degree so far had been my final-year literary project and
Idoubted whether a PhD was necessarily right for me. I had a
passion for science, but I also loved writing, and I wanted a job
that would be creatively, as well as intellectually, stimulating.
Unsure of which direction I should take, I instead took a job as an analyst at a pharmaceutical
company, while I saved up for a round-the-world trip. During this time I was able to gain valuable
insight into the pharmaceutical industry and the drug development process. I was also able to
work within the communications team, which aimed to promote the company and increase the
profile of the site within the community. However, I knew that this wasnt a long-term career
option for me, and so, when I left to travel the world a year later, I was hoping inspiration would
strike while I was away. And luckily, it did! A friend of mine sent me a job description for a
medical writer, saying that she had stumbled across
it and had thought of me. It seemed like Id found
everything Ihad been looking for in a career. It was
an opportunity to be an integral part of scientific
discovery without the confinements of a laboratory,
and a role where I could utilise both my knowledge
and passion for science and love of writing.
I experience new challenges

daily, Im continually learning
and, importantly, I have a job
that I enjoy
When I eventually returned to the UK, I immediately

began to search for available entry-level positions.
Originally, I was concerned that not having a PhD would hold me back. However, after sending
my CV to several agencies, I received a number of positive responses. I completed several
writing tests and interviews, and eventually accepted a job as an associate medical writer at
Prime Medica.
A year on, I have been promoted to medical writer and I am still thoroughly enjoying my time
here. Ive already had the opportunity to work in a variety of therapeutic areas, and produce a
diverse array of materials, such as primary manuscripts, review articles, slide decks, advisory
board reports, detail aids, training manuals and content for digital platforms. I experience new
challenges daily, Im continually learning and, importantly, I have a job that I enjoy.
If you have a strong interest in science, enjoy writing, and are looking for a varied and challenging
role with a clear progression pathway, medical writing may well be the career for you.

25
Alex Mellors
26
Laura McDonagh
Scientific Team Leader, Caudex,
part of McCann Complete Medical
I started my academic life with a biological sciences
undergraduate degree at Imperial College London without
a clear idea of where it would take me, but just knowing that
I wanted to learn as much as I could and eventually work in
something scientific. After my degree, I completed a Masters
course at the Natural History Museum in London, followed by a
PhD in molecular systematics at Exeter University.
My PhD primarily involved trawling through gigabytes of DNA sequencing data and analysing the
phylogenetic patterns found, with the occasional day in the lab squashing up insects to generate
even more genetic data. The part I enjoyed the most was bringing all of the data together and
seeing the bigger picture of how everything fitted. It was this interest in the story telling aspect of
scientific research that led me on my path into medical writing.
I started out as a trainee medical writer in a small independent agency in Cheshire in 2010, with a
lot of hands-on experience on live projects from day one this was both terrifying and at the same
time provided a great opportunity to gain experience very quickly! After relocating to Oxford in
2011 due to a change in my partners job (and overcoming the initial shock at the house prices!)
I joined Caudex and have been working in the Oxford office for the past 4 years.
During my time at Caudex, I progressed to senior writer, and more recently to scientific team
leader. I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of different therapeutic areas, with most of
my time spent on publications accounts. Over the past year, I have become involved in supporting
Global Medical Affairs activities, which has allowed
me to explore more creative avenues of medical
writing ranging from smart device training tools to
interactive congress booth and meeting activities.
One of my proudest achievements

is knowing that I can play a
role in making a real difference
to the lives of people worldwide
One of my proudest achievements is knowing that

I can play a role (albeit as a small cog in a large
machine) in making a real difference to the lives of
people worldwide, whether it be helping clinicians
present their latest potentially ground-breaking
research in a clear and well-structured manner, or forming part of a launch team for a new drug set
to enter the market place and provide patients with new hope for their illness.
My advice to anyone currently in academia and wondering what to do next? If you have a passion
for learning, good writing skills and an interest in combining your knowledge of science and
research to communicate information to a variety of target audiences, consider medical writing as
a valuable career option.

Associate Medical Writer,

Elements Communications,
part of the Obsidian Healthcare Group
Nearing the end of my second post-doc, I was in a quandary.
Do I go for a third post-doc and have to relocate again? Do
Ileave academia? What jobs would I be suitable for? Would I be
able to continue using my scientific expertise? I was working in
the highly specialised field of fungal sexual reproduction and,
despite having a Nature paper to my name, securing further
funding was proving difficult. I had just got married and wanted
stability from a career in which I could use my scientific training. I enjoyed lab work and designing
experiments, but they werent strong enough reasons to stay in academia, so I started looking for a
real job!
My introduction to medical writing happened quite by chance I stumbled across an advert for
a medical writer position when I was job hunting on Google one day. Intrigued, I decided to look
into it more. Job descriptions required a passion for science, excellent attention to detail and the
ability to write for a range of audiences. These were all strengths and skills I had honed while in
academia. Shortly afterwards I found this careers guide, which answered a lot of my questions and
gave me an insider perspective of the industry, and I decided to take the plunge.
I began by sending my CV to recruitment agents and applying for entry-level positions. I was soon
being asked to do writing tests and some interviews followed. I didnt get the first few positions
Iapplied for, but I didnt lose hope, as I really enjoyed the writing tests, which I took as a good
sign! Each writing test gave me a better idea of what was required, and I quickly realised I was
capable of that standard. I then applied to Elements Communications and after completing a
writing test and attending two interviews I was offered a job as an associate medical writer in
November 2014.
Over a year into the job, I can honestly say that medical writing is everything Id hoped for and
more! Elements Communications takes a keen interest in the development of their employees
and made sure from the start that I received
training in all the different aspects of my job. No
two days are the same and Im constantly learning,
with the chance to be creative in different ways.
I also get to interact with key opinion leaders
and hear the latest medical advances first hand
while working on site at international conferences. Another perk of my job is getting to work with
a great team. Throughout the majority of my academic career I worked alone, so now I really
enjoying sharing the highs (and lows) of the job with my colleagues, and I find their support and
encouragement motivates me to continually improve.
Would I go back to academia now?

Not a chance!
The transition from academia to medical writing hasnt been all smooth sailing though. Ive had
to adapt from the relaxed environment of academia to meeting tight client deadlines and always
having the clients strategy in mind. Would I go back to academia now? Not a chance! The steep
learning curve was well worth it. I have a job I love and I get to use my scientific skills to contribute
to new and exciting projects. I cant say fairer than that!

27
Cline Tevlin
FirstMedCommsJob.com
28
Lets get
you started
Were here to help you learn
about careers in MedComms
and then,if you decide its of
interest, to help you get your
first job!
Good luck.
Audio Interviews
Videos
Webinars
Agency Showcase
Jobs
Careers Events
Careers Guide
News
Specialist Recruiters
Email Alerts
visit www.FirstMedCommsJob.com
I work in MedComms...
Emma Bolton attended a careers event in 2015 and now
works as a Medical Writer at Oxford PharmaGenesis.
I work in MedComms because I really enjoy writing

and this job lets me keep learning new science as
well as write so it is a win-win scenario.
Lisa Brackenbury attended a careers event in 2015
and now works as an Associate Medical Writer at
Watermeadow, Ashfield Healthcare Communications.
I work in MedComms because it has allowed me to

move away from the bench and focus on writing manuscripts
and posters, with the option of moving between different
therapy areas. I found out about the company by talking to
several members of staff at the careers event in Manchester
(September 2015) and four months later here I am!
Beth Bradshaw attended a careers event in 2015 and
now works as an Associate Medical Writer at FireKite
(GeoMed), Ashfield Healthcare Communications.
I work in MedComms because I realised that I enjoyed writing

my PhD thesis more than working in the lab. Now I can apply
my scientific knowledge and the skills that I developed during
my PhD to a range of tasks and projects, whilst working with a
great team of people. The diversity of the tasks that come my
way also help fuel my curiosity and passion for learning!
I work in MedComms after completing my PhD in

ovarian and breast cancer. After completing an industrial
placement year, as part of my undergraduate degree,
in the research and development division at GSK and
while finalising the lab research for my PhD, I attended
the careers event where people were able to answer my
questions about MedComms and made me feel more
confident about applying for a job in medical writing.
Laura Mulcahy attended a careers event in 2015 and

now works as an Associate Medical Writer at FireKite
(GeoMed), Ashfield Healthcare Communications.
I work in MedComms because I discovered that

I love turning data into a story thats engaging and
accessible, but became frustrated by the daily grind of
getting that data. Thanks to the resources at MedComms
Networking, I learned that I could use my talents outside
of academia and bypass the lab work! I now enjoy
working in a fast-paced environment at the forefront
of medical research, in which my DPhil is valued but
my days of failed experiments are behind me.
Madeleine Pope attended a careers event in 2015 and

now works as a Medical Writer at Porterhouse Medical.
I work in MedComms and I love it because it combines

my two passions for writing and science. I have learned
so much during my first year as a medical writer and feel
that each day my knowledge and skill set are growing as
I take on new and diverse challenges. Communicating
science in a clear and accessible way is something
that I feel is of great importance, especially in todays
society, and I think specialist medical communications
companies are instrumental to achieving this.
Jessica Donaldson attended a careers event in 2015 and now

works as a Medical Writer at Fishawack Communications.
I work in MedComms after five and half years in the

pharmaceutical industry, an MA in health care ethics
and law and an MSc in pharmacology. I found that the
overall knowledge and skills that you can offer is more
important than whether you have completed a PhD.
Shelley Morris attended a careers event in 2015
and now works as an Associate Medical Writer at QXV
Comms, Ashfield Healthcare Communications.
Jessica Sampson attended a careers event in 2015 and now

works as a Medical Writer at highfield:communication.
I work in MedComms because it allows me to use my

creativity and scientific background on a daily basis.
Laura Schmidt attended a careers event in 2015 and now

works as a Medical Writer at Oxford PharmaGenesis.
For details of careers events, plus much more, visit:

29
I work in MedComms as a medical writer

and really enjoy the variety of working across
different therapy areas. Im always learning!
Med_Comm_Ad_LLv1 FOR PRINT.pdf
25/01/2016
17:11
Together We Can
Directory MedComms
30
We are a global agency providing comprehensive and innovative

medical communication services to the healthcare industry.
With a vibrant team environment, intensive on-the-job coaching
and a programme of targeted training, Adelphi provides the right
CM
environment for professionals who want to make a difference.
MY
Contact email: martina.carolan@adelphigroup.com
CY
www.adelphicommunications.com
Communication is the key

to making connections.
We translate energy into action,
information into change.
We help our clients change patients
lives. AS&K is a global full-service
agency, priding ourselves on our ability
to exceed our clients expectations.
Our colleagues are stimulated and
engaged, passionate and unique.
CMY
Adelphi Communications Ltd

Adelphi Mill
Bollington
Macclesfield
Cheshire
SK10 5JB
We are always looking to hear from

talented colleagues interested in
finding out more about us.
recruitment@asandk.com
www.asandk.com
Shine with us
2016 marks the 15th birthday

of AMICULUM.Reflecting on
this important milestone, its
easy to draw parallels between
our business and the crystals
traditionally associated with the
anniversary. Consider controlled
growth, variety and clarity,
for example.
We are now seeking additional

talented individuals to join our
global team of 150 healthcare
communications, learning and
consulting professionals.
To show us how you can shine,

contact Richard Allcorn
(richard.allcorn@amiculum.biz)
or visit us at www.amiculum.biz
Discover a fantastic new career in medical writing

and medical communications
Global healthcare communication agency seeks
talented scientists
Ashfield Healthcare Communications works with the biggest brands in pharma and healthcare
from Europe, USA and Japan. With over 1,100 colleagues worldwide, were recognised as a leading
practitioner in our field.
Were looking for ambitious people with a science background and a flair for communication.
If thats you, then you already have the potential to enjoy an amazing career with us whether
youre a new graduate or an accomplished post-doc.
No experience is necessary; we provide extensive training and development for the right people.
As one of our team youll benefit from a clear path for advancement, diverse project work, very
competitive salary and opportunities to travel the globe.
Reach out to discover more
Phone: 01625 664 089 Email: AHCrecruitment@ashfieldhealthcare.com
www.ashfieldhealthcare.com
Ashfield
Healthcare Communications
Ashfield Healthcare Communications

Excellence. Connected.
part of udg healthcare plc
ACUMED BlueMomentum CircleScience Clinical Bridges CodonMedical Creative Fusion eMedFusion FireKite Galliard
Follow us on
Gardiner-Caldwell Communications GeoMed iMed Comms Infusion InterPhase Consult Nyxeon Physicians World Europe
QXVComms Scientific Connexions Seren Communications StemScientific Watermeadow Medical Zoetic Science
Looking for paid work experience in

medical communications/medical writing?
Aspire Scientific offer paid work experience to talented and suitably qualified
UK-based individuals who have or are working towards a PhD.
If you would like to find out more, then please email Jane Woodrow
(jane.woodrow@aspire-scientific.com), with a copy of your CV and, to showcase
your writing skills, a 250-word summary of your current research focus.
Quote from a former member of our team, now working for a medical communications agency:
"Working with Aspire alongside my academic role has been a fantastic experience. I have been
involved in a range of oncology-based medical writing projects, which has given me a unique
insight into the industry. I thoroughly enjoyed completing each assignment and really benefitted
from the constructive feedback I received from Aspire. I am now leaving academia having been
offered a position with a MedComms agency. My time with Aspire not only helped to confirm my
career choice of medical writer, but I believe really helped with my interviews, allowing me to
demonstrate a genuine interest in MedComms and my familiarity with the industry.
www.Aspire-Scientific.com
Tel: 01625 575101
23
31
Directory MedComms
Reach Higher
Directory MedComms
32
Communicating science
with passion, flair and integrity needs
talented, creative and principled
individuals who love working together.
At AXON were passionate about
healthcare communications.
We love to decode complex
scientific information to improve
outcomes in healthcare.
If you would like to know more
about our collaborative, creative
and inspiring London-based team,
take a look at our website:
At Darwin, we take pride in creating

innovative high-science solutions across
all media that mesh seamlessly with
those of our advertising, digital and
market access partners.
So if you like the idea of astounding
our clients, get in touch.
www.axon-com.com
and get in touch, quoting Career, on
hr-ldn@axon-com.com
Oxford +44 (0) 1865 822555 London +44 (0) 20 3037 3600
Darwin Career quarter page 2016.indd 1
11/03/2016 12:11
Think all medical communications

agencies are the same? Think again.
The Envision Pharma Group is unique. We not only have an enviable heritage of industry-leading innovation in global medical
communications, but in 2013 we became independent again. With a vision for continued growth, we are already realising our
goals, which include an expanded service offering to our clients. This is an exciting time for our organisation, and a great time
to join our team.
From our offices in the UK, US and the Asia Pacific region, we support an international portfolio of pharmaceutical
and biotechnology company clients, providing a comprehensive blend of service offerings spanning:
Strategic and tactical publication planning and implementation Market access
Medical communications
Social and web media
Strategic communications consultancy
Complementary technology platforms, including DatavisionTM
We are seeking ambitious and talented medical writers to be part of our continued success.
So, whats it like to work at the Envision Pharma Group? Well, it isnt all about our clients we are committed to developing
and supporting our team members, enabling them to excel in their roles, and to maintaining a culture that recognises and
rewards achievements. We offer excellent benefits and a friendly, supportive and dynamic work environment.
To find out more visit www.envisionpharmagroup.com
Envision your future with us

U nite d Kingdom
Unite d Sta te s of America
Aust ralia
Japan
China
group of companies
Our ethos is simple...
...and the difference we make is clear
Elements Communications is an independent
boutique medical communications agency, with offices
in Westerham, Kent and Victoria, London
Our experience in managing and delivering global medical
education programmes spans 20+ years and is at the heart
of Elements core offering
We believe that the real difference is in the way we do
business... Because we are passionate about what we do,
we are happy doing it! We also believe in doing business the
right way, with the needs of our clients and our people at the
centre of everything we do
So if youre looking for a fulfilling and rewarding career
within a thriving agency, wed love to hear from you
...the way we achieve success matters

Email: info@elementscommunications.com
Website: www.elementscommunications.com
Elements Communications Ltd is part of the Obsidian Healthcare Group
The Fishawack Group is an independent

global organisation of medical
communications agencies providing
fresh thinking and a bespoke service.
We value individuality and openness, and
offer comprehensive training and career
progression across a diversity of roles.
According to American Indian folklore,
those who encounter the Fishawack River
are blessed with good fortune. If this could
be your destiny, then please contact:
Email: recruitment@fishawack.com
Tel: 01235 462 820 Twitter: @fishawack
Web: www.fishawack.com
Knutsford Oxford Brighton Basel Pennsylvania California
Directory MedComms
33
Directory MedComms
34
Take the leap

Starting something new can seem like a huge step, but by joining
the supportive team at highfield:communication working in
partnership with great clients you can make it the right choice.
Our vibrant medical communications consultancy always delivers
creative, high quality programmes aiming to surpass client
expectations every time.
For details of all current vacancies

and our internship programme,
please contact Carolyn at:
+44 (0)1865 305090
Let us help you take that leap.
email@highfieldcommunication.com
Come and join our friendly, enthusiastic and growing team.
59 St Aldates, Oxford, OX1 1ST, UK
knowledge. experience. expertise.
To apply for our

Graduate Programme
contact Aimee via:
Aimee.Stapleton@
havasww.com
Great ideas. Doing good.
Infectious
ideas
required
Exciting
Career
Opportunities
Insight MW are experts in clinical and regulatory
writing. Our highly motivated and talented
team provides an unparalleled service to the
pharmaceutical industry.
Located in Oxford, we offer exciting career
opportunities for individuals looking to move
into medical writing, with extensive in-house and
external training.
For further information

W: www.insightmw.com
E: tim.griffiths@insightmw.com
BS2533_insight_recruitment_ad_Page 2.indd 1
29/02/2016 16:19
With offices based in London, Cheshire and

Philadelphia, our agency offers a wide variety of
opportunities for a rewarding career. We are constantly
evolving and regularly have vacancies within our teams.
If you are interested in being part of inScience
Communications, please email:
workforinscience@springer.com or visit
www.insciencecommunications.com
Fulfil your potential with a career

in medical communications
inVentiv Medical Communications is the med comms division of the wider inVentiv Health group. We do
things a little differently from most agencies in that we dont have job titles within the business and have a
flat structure. This means that you will get the opportunity to develop your skillset at your own pace, and will
be free to explore your interests in medical writing, account management, digital and more without having to
have a defined job title or job role.
We regularly recruit people without prior industry experience, both as part of our annual graduate scheme
and throughout the year. We offer a full year-long training scheme to new joiners, designed to give you a
rounded skillset that will enable you to reach your full potential.
If youre interested in joining a company with a global reach but a personal touch, please contact:
matt.mcginley@inventivhealth.com
http://inventivmedcomms.com/
London New York Dallas Munich Shanghai
35
Directory MedComms
We have delivered strategic medical communications

since 1982, making us one of the most experienced
global medical communications agencies in the world.
36
LOVE SCIENCE?
Directory MedComms
COMMUNICATE IT!
McCann Complete Medical are excited to work in partnership

with the pharmaceutical industry, providing a wide range of
innovative and class-leading services. We work on some of
the most exciting healthcare products globally and provide a
positive and challenging working environment for our staff.
Our people have clever and curious minds, courageous and
committed hearts. We are incredibly proud of our people and
we aim to provide them with careers, not just jobs. Interested?
Glasgow
London
Macclesfield
Oxford
Chicago
New Jersey
New York
San Francisco
HR@complete-grp.com www.complete-grp.com
BDP78951b_MedComms Directory_Ad_180x125mm_Lndscp.indd 1
10/02/2016 13:45
Nucleus Global is a group of international

healthcare communications companies.
We are approaching 600 employees
around the globe, and have a reputation
of scientific excellence and quality.
At Nucleus Global you will:
Work at the cutting edge of medical science
Develop and expand your scientific expertise
Explore opportunities for international travel and secondment
Experience a challenging and rewarding career
To find out more, or to apply, please go to: www.nucleus-global.com
Alternatively, please send a copy of your CV and covering letter to: eucareers@nucleus-global.com
Articulate Science | Chrysalis | Clinical Thinking | Cognito Medical | Digilific | Health Interactions | IMNE | International Medical Press
Integress | Medical Expressions | MediTech Media | Nucleus Central | Nucleus X Market Access | Scientific Pathways | SciMentum
Figure out your future
37
Directory MedComms
Want the chance to work in a globally-acclaimed

agency, delivering high-impact programmes of
work and exceeding clients expectations on a
regular basis? Getin touch wed love to chat.
Oxford PharmaGenesis is committed to excellence.

We value high-calibre life scientists with PhDs
who are passionate about quality communication
and who want an exciting career where they can
help to make a difference.
What we offer
Exceptional training and development
Variety and job satisfaction
A career with opportunities for rapid progression
Colleagues who you can depend on
A great working environment
A competitive salary and benefits package
We currently have 150 employees in Oxford, London,
Basel and Philadelphia and we are growing.
If you would like to be a part of our success,
please apply direct to:
annie.beagent@pharmagenesis.com
www.pharmagenesis.com
careers@porterhouse.biz | www.porterhouse.biz
OXP015_ZP7586 Mag Ad 87x125 _ 05.indd 1
01/03/2016
jan 2016 10:40
87.5x125mm.indd 2
19/02/2016 10:20
Exciting things are happening at The Prime Medical Group!

Based in Manchester, with offices in London,
New York and San Francisco, The Prime Medical Group
is one of the most established and respected global
medical communications agencies. Working with some of the
most exciting organisations in healthcare, we continually strive
to deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients, from strategic
support through to multi-channel medical communications.
Our Vision
Where people come first, science and creativity fuse
and truly outstanding communications flow is at the heart
of our business.
Our success depends on our exceptional people.
If you think youve got what it takes, wed love to
hear from you.
E: lisa.bratt@prime-medica.com
T: 01565 752155
Manchester
London
New York
San Francisco
Virgo Health Education is an

awardwinning agency with teams in
Richmond, Central London and New York.
We strive to create high-quality,
insightdriven communications that are
real, relevant and above all...human.
Its our exceptional people who make
Virgo the agency it is. If you think you
could be one of them, please contact:
Email: recruit@virgohealth.com
Tel: 0208 939 1275
Directory careers support
38
Lets get you started
Were here to help you learn about careers in MedComms and

then,if you decide its of interest, to help you get your first job!
Good luck.
Audio Interviews
Careers Events
Videos
Careers Guide
Webinars
News
Agency Showcase
Specialist Recruiters
Jobs
Email Alerts
visit www.FirstMedCommsJob.com
Entry-level Consultancy
I offer a specialist consultancy for anyone looking for trainee medical writing,
editing or account management roles in the medical communications industry.
This service is set up specifically to support entry-level candidates.
Services include:
Overview of medical communications companies
Assistance with CV preparation
In-depth assessment of a practice writing test
Support with job applications
Interview preparation
For a preliminary discussion, please email or give me a call.
Karen Kent PhD
Tel: 01474 853 987 / 0778 626 1259
Email: karen@windhorseservices.co.uk
Web: www.windhorseservices.co.uk
The European Medical Writers Association (EMWA) is an association committed to

representing, supporting and training medical communication professionals. It has
more than 1,000 members from all over Europe and beyond, representing all sectors
of medical writing. Members work in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device
industries, medical communications agencies, journal publishing, medical translations,
and elsewhere. Members are predominantly employed or freelance medical writers,
editors or translators. EMWA is a not-for-profit organisation, run by its members
for its members.
EMWA conferences
For its members, EMWA offers
Opportunity to attend bi-annual conferences held throughout

Europe
Wide-ranging certified training at foundation and advanced levels
Introduction to emerging and developing areas through Annual
Symposium Days
Extended learning opportunities for experienced members
through Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and the Expert Seminar
Series (ESS)
Networking opportunities
Quarterly free print issue of Medical Writing Journal
Free webinars on topics of interest within medical communications
Discounts on books, insurances, software, etc
EMWAs main conference takes place in May each year; a shorter

meeting is held in November. EMWA conferences provide extensive,
cost-effective, professional training in the form of small group
workshops, forums for networking and active discussions. During
Spring conferences, a one-day Symposium is organised to address a
hot topic. The Symposium blends podium presentations and panel
discussions to ensure free flowing dialogue between speakers and
panellists and allows ample opportunity for audience questions.
In addition, EMWA conferences offer an excellent opportunity
to benefit from the experiences of other medical communication
professionals. The conferences have a relaxed, friendly atmosphere
that is ideal for networking and that enables attendees to meet
colleagues at all stages in their careers.
How do I join EMWA?
Go to www.emwa.org or email: info@emwa.org
EMWA Advert 180x125.indd 1
25/02/2016 14:44
Study for a Masters in Science

Communication with option to
specialise in medical writing
Are you interested in pursuing a career in medical
communications, but unsure where to start?
Or unclear what qualifications you need to succeed?
Manchester Metropolitan University is offering a brand new MSc in Science
Communication with the option to specialise in medical writing. The medical writing
components of this programme have been developed in conjunction with world-leading
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and industry leaders.
This is an innovative, hands-on course delivered by internationally renowned experts in
the fields of science communication, medical writing and healthcare science.
For more information and to apply,

visit www.mmu.ac.uk/13620
or email Dr Sam Illingworth at

s.illingworth@mmu.ac.uk
Directory training
Why join EMWA?
39
Everything starts with...
(is it you were looking for?)
At Darwin, were all about communication. As you might

expect, given that weve won awards for it.
So even though its time to say goodbye to the guide for this
year, wed like to remind you that everything still starts with
hello, including No 1 hits but also your career.
We love to make new friends, so if you have what it takes to
surprise and delight our clients, we hope youll get in touch.
Remember, it only takes one word to begin a relationship
although a CV would also be appreciated. Dont be a stranger!
London
Lynton House
712 Tavistock Square
London
WC1H 9LT UK
T +44 (0)20 3037 3600
Oxford
Sterling House
Oxford Road
Kingston Bagpuize
Oxon OX13 5AP UK
T +44 (0)1865 822555

Careersguide Medical Writing

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For more information about careers in MedComms see

Darwin Career inside cover Ad 2016.indd 1

From academic to medical writer: a guide to getting started in medical communications

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

Foreword to 2016 edition

About the author

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

Medical communications provides consultancy

Developing a drug can take up to

Before a new drug can be tested in people, it

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

Phase of clinical development

Testing in vitro and in suitable animal models

Testing in healthy human volunteers

Testing in comparative trials

Post-marketing surveillance following the launch of

Why does the pharmaceutical industry

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

Advertising and branding:

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

Why join a MedComms agency?

When it comes to getting a broad

You will manage a diverse range

Healthcare Communications Agency

Editorial Project Manager

Are you an energetic, ambitious and

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

A medical writers job is to write

Attending conferences, and advisory

Likes science likes writing = medical writer

Common characteristics of a medical

Excellent research skills

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

Comfortable with statistics

Applying for your first

Writing experience outside of your

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

Doctoral thesis, peer-reviewed manuscripts, slide

Transfer talk, conference presentations, journal club

Designing experiments and scheduling resources

Project leading and mentoring

Mentoring project students, teaching/demonstrating

Liaising with colleagues and collaborating with other

Discussing science with experts

Confidently discussing complex issues with leading

The writing test

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

Creating Effective Conference Abstracts

Association of the British Pharmaceutical

Getting Research Published,

European Medical Writers

People in the job in their own words

One of the main things I enjoy

A year later I was promoted to medical writer having

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

Scientific Director, GeoMed, part of the

The exposure to disease areas

Eleven years on and I havent looked back except to

Moon A. From academic to medical writer. March 2016.

People in the job in their own words

People in the job in their own words

I get to meet some amazing