• Question: What is the best advice you would give to someone who want to become a drug researcher?

    Asked by HannahP to David, Sarah, Zoe on 19 Nov 2014.
    • Photo: Zoe Roberts

      Zoe Roberts answered on 19 Nov 2014:

      Make sure this is what you love and are interested in, enjoy it, work hard, read around the subject and remain curious!

    • Photo: David Foley

      David Foley answered on 19 Nov 2014:

      Study a chemistry degree (stay away from specialised degrees like med chem, pharm chem etc.) at a good university and choose electives in your later years in organic chemistry, biochemistry and pharmacology if you’re still interesed at that stage.

      Not pouring scorn on med chem degrees (have one myself) but I think specialising at this stage of your life is not required or a good idea. The world could be very different in 4 years time!!

    • Photo: Sarah Ashwood

      Sarah Ashwood answered on 19 Nov 2014:

      Do a Chemistry Degree – straight chemistry looks better on a CV than more specialised courses. If possible do a course with a year of industrial experience – this is a fantastic opportunity, gives you the experience of working in a company for a year and gives you the opportunity to work out if it’s what you want to do long term. Plus you get paid for that year so that REALLY helps with student loans!!
      Remain enthusiastic, remain curious and be sure to enjoy yourself. Us scientists work hard and play hard 😀

Comments