Pharmacy practice research careers.

Research is critical to the advancement of pharmacy practice. The need for pharmacistresearchers who possess both clinical knowledge and biomedical research skills has long been recognized. A variety of career pathways are available for individuals entering the profession of pharmacy that allow them to embark on a career in research. However, many students and graduates of schools or colleges of pharmacy are unfamiliar with the research opportunities that exist. The purpose of this document is to provide information to pharmacy students and postgraduate residents or fellows on the types of skills that are important to be a successful researcher and on the various avenues available for a career in research (Tables 1–3). Although numerous resources are available from various pharmaceutical companies, such as the Pfizer Guide, and pharmacy organizations, such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists or American Pharmacists Association, that describe pharmacy careers, little discussion is available about career options for pharmacists with a focus on research. This article focuses on five primary research career pathways—academia, contract research organizations (CROs), health care institutional setting, industry, and government—and primarily examines opportunities that exist in pharmacy practice and the clinical sciences. However, only a superficial discussion is provided in this document, and interested readers are encouraged to seek opportunities at institutions that involve exposure to research. 3