Pharmacologists

Aspiring pharmacologists should take as many math and science classes as possible and participate in college internships to gain experience in the field. Those interested in pursuing a job in academia often gain experience by landing a postdoctoral research position at a large hospital, research institute, or government research laboratory.

Pharmacology is a great option for someone who is interested in pharmaceuticals, but doesn't want to be a pharmacist directly interacting with patients. Pharmacologists, however, must be highly intelligent, inquisitive, and flexible to learn new techniques. They must perform multiple tasks simultaneously, keep accurate records, follow instructions, and present their findings to a group of peers, occasionally while being asked difficult questions. Pharmacologists need to be patient and willing to work long hours, often alone, to master research that does not provide quick answers. When working with others, communication skills are vital.