Case studies: Research scientist: Susan Parkhouse

Susan works as a research scientist at the pharmaceutical company Pharmaceutics. She studied for a degree in science and a PhD in pharmacy before gaining a postdoctoral position in pharmacy...

I obtained my current role through a graduate scheme. I had to go through an assessment centre and a second interview but then I was offered the position. My current job title is formulation scientist and I use the key skills I gained throughout my first degree, PhD and postdoc studies, such as analytical skills, using lab equipment and general theory of drug development, in my daily work.

My undergraduate degree was linked to this career path and it developed a good grounding in the basic knowledge required. My PhD gave me much more specialised knowledge of the subject and the equipment, although it is not necessary to have this as full on the job training is provided. A sound biological or chemical background is more important as the rest can be taught fairly quickly.

I entered into the profession as I wanted to do a job that would not only benefit people in the long term but would use the knowledge and experience I had gained throughout my studies.

Throughout the graduate scheme I came across opportunities to try new things and develop myself as a scientist. I would recommend that you keep an eye on a particular company website if you want to work for them directly, especially going through a graduate scheme. Once you're in the job, take any training that is offered to you as it may be useful in the future.

The role has developed over time to become more office based, with more responsibility for making sure the teams complete tasks on time and as required by the client. This has expanded my technical knowledge and troubleshooting experience.

On a day-to-day basis I test new drug products, analyse the results, write the reports and present the information internally. Additionally, I develop time-saving methods to meet deadlines more quickly and to work more effectively overall.

I really enjoy the problem-solving aspects of the role and generating charts that will be used within the submission reports for drug licences (given by the regulatory authorities). I like the fact that I am usually busy and that I work with people from different teams and backgrounds.

While I do enjoy being busy, sometimes the timelines can be very tight and it can be difficult to prioritise which is most important. Also, some of the work can be repetitive although this does build your expertise within a specific area.

In the future I would like to become a knowledge expert before moving on to being a project leader.