Even when you’re well-established in your career, growth doesn’t stop. Pharmacology is a dynamic field, and planning strategically, embracing new opportunities, and continuing to build your professional network can help you stay ahead. Here are some things to consider to help you take your career to the next level:
Long-term planning
Focus on long-term planning by:
- Setting clear goals: Define where you want to be in 5–10 years. Consider leadership roles, research impact, or industry influence.
- Identifying skill gaps: Assess your current capabilities against future aspirations. Are there technical, managerial, or communication skills you need to strengthen?
- Staying flexible: Career paths aren’t always linear. Be open to unexpected opportunities that align with your values and ambitions. View our Where can pharmacology take me? page for other areas you could pivot into.
Continuous learning
- Training & development: Enrol in advanced courses or certifications relevant to pharmacology and emerging trends. Check out BPS training opportunities or the BPS Assessment for prescribing learning and assessment.
- Attend conferences: Stay informed about cutting-edge research and network with peers by attending conferences, events and webinars. Check out our events calendar to see what's coming up.
- Stay up to date: Read our latest news, blog and Pharmacology Matters articles; follow us on social media; and sign up to our newsletter for the latest in pharmacology news and opportunities.
Embrace new opportunities
- Role or career changes: Career paths aren’t always linear. Transitioning into a new role or a new sector could keep things fresh and help you progress. View our Where can pharmacology take me? page or our career case studies for inspiration.
- Propose an event: Do you have an idea for an event that we could run? Submit an event proposal, and we could help you bring it to life.
- Join a committee or group: Share your insights and help shape the Society by joining one of our committees or groups.
Networking
- In-person networking: Build relationships through conferences and events
- Online networking: Join online forums such as LinkedIn or ResearchGate:
Mentoring
Find a mentor: Seek guidance from more experienced professionals who can provide insights and advice to help you grow.
Become a mentor: Becoming a mentor and sharing your knowledge with early-career pharmacologists can help you enhance your leadership skills and reflect on your own career. It's a fantastic way to give back to the community and strengthen the profession.
Take your career further with BPS membership
Join our international community of over 5,000 members across academia, industry, healthcare and the regulatory sector. Access exclusive benefits and opportunities to support and help you progress your career.
