Pharmacology studies chemicals to discover new ways to utilize drugs and other artificial substances in animals or plants. A pharmacologist might focus on specific applications such as insects or mammals. Their goal is to create a new drug or pharmaceutical, which are then tested vigorously through studies and trials. Pharmacologists record the results and determine if a drug is suitable for practical use. If you have ever benefitted from a new medicine or chemical treatment, you owe it to the study of pharmacology.
This is an essential field of science. You might be interested in becoming a pharmacologist, but how do you know if it’s the right career for you? This article means to lay out some basic characteristics and requirements necessary to succeed in the essential field of pharmacology.
What Are Your Interests?
Before deciding to become a pharmacologist, you should examine your interests and skills. First, if you are detail-oriented and organized, you will have a leg up in pharmacology. A significant part of the job is recording exhaustive notes, weighing and measuring components and compiling results in a manner that allows for easy access. Pharmacologists enjoy getting into the weeds of their studies and do not settle for cursory notes. A pharmacologist can also publish peer-reviewed research papers, which other professionals utilize. So, some competence in writing is also a useful skill to have. Being able to explain your findings carefully and succinctly will help establish your reputation as a professional.
What Degrees Are Required?
If you believe you have the skills and desires necessary to study drugs and their applications, you will need to gain the proper education. Pharmacologists must learn a broad range of subjects and be highly competent in all of them. Your studies will include chemistry, medicine, anatomy, physiology, math and biology. Pharmacologists like Gregg Roman earned their degrees in Biology and Genetics, but there are degrees in Pharmacology that you can obtain directly. Becoming a pharmacist is not the same as pharmacology, so be aware that the education required is not the same or interchangeable.
Can You Network?
Like anything else, the more you prepare and network, the better off you will be. If you are interested in a career in pharmacology, try to approach professionals who can advise you on the correct path. Establishing relationships with professionals in the field will help you when seeking employment and educational opportunities. Pharmacology is not a career that happens in a vacuum. Communication and sharing information are essential to making an impact in the field. Your ability to network will help you further your career and gain knowledge when you need it. If you cannot work with people very well, you might have difficulty with this or any scientific profession.
Pharmacologists require years of training and study. A professional in this career is detail-oriented, organized, socially intelligent and skilled in multiple scientific and mathematical disciplines. In short, not everyone will have the skills and perseverance necessary to succeed. However, if you want to make a difference and enjoy all of the aspects laid out in this article, you will earn a rewarding and profitable career.