Academia
Pharmacy Career PathwaysAcademia Pathways
Seeking a fulfilling career as a faculty member in an academic institution? PharmD, pharmaceutical science, and pharmaceutical business students looking to enter into academia can benefit from the following resources and steps.
Coursework and Research
- Focus on Specialization: Choose a specialization that aligns with your career goals in academia, such as clinical pharmacy, pharmacology, or pharmaceutical management.
- Research Experience: Engage in research projects early through thesis work, independent research projects, or assisting faculty with their research.
- Publications: Aim to publish research findings in reputable journals. Start with co-authored papers and work towards first-authored publications.
Advanced Education
- Pursue Advanced Degrees: Consider obtaining a Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences or a related field. MCPHS offers several advanced degrees in the School of Pharmacy with a variety of options for completion.
- Postdoctoral Fellowships: Engage in postdoctoral research to gain further expertise and establish a research portfolio.
Teaching Experience
- Teaching Assistantships: Participate in teaching assistant programs to gain experience and develop teaching skills.
- Lectures and Workshops: Offer to give guest lectures or workshops to build confidence and credibility in teaching.
Certifications and Training
- Educational Pedagogy: Take courses or certifications in educational methods and pedagogy to improve teaching effectiveness.
- Industry Experience: For pharmaceutical business students, gaining industry experience can provide practical insights that are valuable in an academic setting.
Building Relationships
- Mentorship: Seek mentors within academia who can provide guidance and support throughout your academic career journey. Connect with School of Pharmacy faculty in Boston or in Worcester and Manchester.
- Networking Events: Attend academic conferences, seminars, and workshops to network with faculty members and other professionals. Don't forget to learn about future events through the MCPHS Events Calendar.
Professional Organizations
- Memberships: Join professional organizations such as the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP), the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), and others relevant to pharmaceutical sciences and business.
- Conferences and Symposiums: Present research at conferences to increase visibility and establish a presence in the academic community.
Curriculum Vitae and Portfolio
- Develop a Strong CV: Highlight academic achievements, teaching experience, research publications, and professional development activities.
- Teaching Portfolio: Create a portfolio that includes teaching philosophy, evaluations, sample syllabi, and evidence of teaching effectiveness.
Feedback and Improvement
- Seek Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from students, peers, and mentors to improve your teaching and research approaches.
- Adaptability: Be open to adapting teaching methods and research focus based on feedback and emerging trends in the field.