What is Medical Science Liaison and how to get the job (Part I)

Do you know what a medical science liaison (MSL) does? What skills do you need to get the job? How to network?
Heres the first part of the interview with my friend Tony, a hematology MSL at Bristol Myers Squibb. He dissected the job in detail and shared with us his tips on what to do to get the job.
Questions we talked about in this video:
What does an MSL do?
What is a typical day like working as an MSL?
What are the key skills required to be an MSL?
How to network?
I hope you enjoy the video! Don't forget to like the video and subscribe! Part II will come next week!

[@Jxc95]

Wow, another hit from Dr.CatsLab! Thoroughly enjoyed this video!

[@danielchuhan9579]

great thanks for posting this. very helpful

[@HeleneParisMoi]

Thank you very much Dr Catslab. I hope you will continue your chanel because it is really useful for young doctors like me ❤️

[@OmarinLondon]

Thank you so much that was really helpful!

[@mumubest]

Hi Dr. Cats, very nice and informative video introducing the role of MSL.

[@dr.catslab]

Thanks Linlin!

[@aniyeats]

Great info thanks!

[@kmanzano1396]

Holy, this video helped so so much

[@aureliechaib548]

Hi. Thank you so much sharing your experience. I'm pharmacist with a phD and I'm looking for a position as MSL. I understand the importance of my network and sometimes I hesitate to use it, but after this video, I know I just have to do it :). Thank you again.

[@dr.catslab]

Thanks for watching and sharing your experience. Best of luck!

[@joha914]

Thank you

[@AaronAlterman]

I have a BS in neuroscience, a MS in medical science, and 2+ years of clinical/diagnostic/neurosurgical experience. Do I have a chance of getting a position as an MSL or do I need a PhD/MD?

[@psal1291]

Hi , I’m a Canadian MD from a Caribbean school but I’ve noticed some MSL positions throughout Canada. Do you think taking Canadian licensing exams would also help? I had to take USMLEs for my degree. Or would work experience be something to focus on?

[@dr.catslab]

Hi so sorry for the late reply but unfortunately I’m not quite familiar with the Canadian process. Assuming it’s the same as in the US, you don’t need to be a licensed physician. Good luck!

[@grace8301]

hi cat, is it possible for me to become an msl by doing a biochemistry bachelor degree and then doing a biochem Phd? love the video btw!

[@dr.catslab]

Yes! If so the educational background is perfect. Adding more clinical experience will def help a lot along the way!

[@MaisIT9]

Thanks cat 👍🏻 I have bsc of molecular biology and genetics and persuing my master’s in molecular biology + trying to take MSL courses , can i get any MSL chance? Or it’s hard?

[@dr.catslab]

Having more direct clinical experience or management experience would help! Def give it a try on application and don’t forget to network! Good luck

[@user-zh5mp5zt4c]

Hi Dr. Cats. I am a pharmacist and I am now pursuing my master degree in Pharmaceutical Science (Departement of Pharamcology). Does the M.S. degree in pharmacology help to get the job ? Thanks in advance. Have a nice day !

[@user-bh3mx9zq5q]

Hi ! Thank you so much for your video . I am second year Caribbean medical student . As a non US citizen, Is it possible to be a MSL if I don't match and just have ECFMG quilifeid ?

[@dr.catslab]

Great question! It varies by companies so the best way is to talk to HR who can assess your level of qualification

[@kulsoomashraf2190]

@@dr.catslab I'm finding it really hard to obtain HR contact numbers for MSL jobs in the UK as too have unique set of questions.

[@laurianen.8714]

Hi Cat, Do you happen to know if foreigners can work as MSL in China and if it's required to be fluent in Chinese? Thanks!

[@dr.catslab]

Thanks for the question! Many biotech companies require fluent in Chinese even its a branch of a foreign company. Also, Chinese is kinda essential if you want to have a life ☺️

[@Jo-ht6wl]

Hi! I'm an MD and would like to start a career in MSL or Medical Affairs. Where do you think should I start to learn more about it? Is there like a middle job I should try first since my education is only clinical up until now?

[@dr.catslab]

The best place to know about it is talking to people who are MSLs and read the job description. You can first try to apply with your current experience with smaller companies. Alternatively, you can do consulting as a transition.

[@psal1291]

I have the same question, have you found out anything yet? I’ve been so stumped.

[@pureveera]

I still have the same doubt, did you find any possible way. Shall we connect in LinkedIn if possible. 😊

[@okangba1]

Hi Dr Cat, i currently work in a pharmaceutical company but would like to apply for the position of the medical liason in the future. I do have a medical degree as well. Please what do you think about taking the BCMAS

[@dr.catslab]

Hi! It will be great to have it but not required to get the job. I just had another interview with a senior MSL and he addressed this question if you want to check it out the latest video!

[@Travelsolonotalone]

How to get into phd in USA after mbbs ? Could you please make a video on it ?

[@dr.catslab]

Great recommendation!

[@OmarAbdulMalikDHEdMPASPACPAPro]

Hi; new subscriber here. I'm a DC-based Physician Associate with a doctorate in health Ed. I'm looking for a career change and think that a MSL might be a good fit. I greatly appreciate this interview. I would love to be on your show sometime!🙂👋🏽👨🏽‍⚕️

[@dr.catslab]

Thanks for subscribing and I’m so glad you find it’s helpful! I appreciate your offer to share your experience on my channel and we definitely can make that happen!

[@mattperez9010]

Thanks for the video! PharmD looking into industry.

[@dejaooou3686]

Is majoring in molecular and cellular biology for an undergraduate less ideal compared to pharma or biochemistry?

[@dr.catslab]

No. Any bio related degree works. Degree is not an important factor here. The point is to show you are interested in healthcare and have great communication and collaboration skills, which can be demonstrated in your past experience.

[@evamurray8151]

Hi Siddy I'm a nurse but my dream is to be in a more science based role like an msl with a Pharma company! Do you think I have to go back and study pharmacy? Or masters in a science degree? Thanks

[@dr.catslab]

If you want to do more hands-on science, then you need an advanced degree. But if you have clinical experience, I would say give it a try on the job market! Polish your resume! I know cases that seasoned RNs got in MSL jobs.

[@evamurray8151]

Thank you! I’m considering a masters as I really want to learn more of the in depth science and drug side of things ! Is there any specific masters you would recommend I’m thinking of pharmacology

[@dr.catslab]

Pharmacology is great! And it’s versatile later for different industries as well. Good luck!

[@medicaldata5754]

Hiii Thanks for making very nice video. I have 12 years of experience of Medical Advisor and Product manager in India. I am coming to US for the postdoc. Will it help me to get the job of MSL there? Please opine and suggest

[@dr.catslab]

Yes! These precious experiences def help! You should highlight these on your resume esp what you’ve done and also the soft skills u learned. Also, as internationals, one thing you have to communicate with the HR is the visa-if they sponsor. Good luck!

[@iimSky]

I’m currently studying to be a PA, but I eventually wanna do a phd and become a MSL at the end. What kind of phd is the most appropriate for becoming a MSL and does having clinical experience make it easier to get hired.

[@dr.catslab]

Great question Siddy! You are on a good track! Any PhD work involving diseases would help get the MSL jobs in the field you worked on. Tony worked in a hematology lab during his PhD and it def helped him get the current job. YES! Having clinical experience really helps!

[@dr.catslab]

Also, please check out my latest PartII of this interview! It will give you a better picture!

[@mohajapan2405]

Dear Cat. I'm an MD and PhD from Japan and took medical exams in the USA and currently doing postdoc in the US... What do you think of cheeky scientist

[@dr.catslab]

What’s your career goal? I think if you are in rush and trying to get a job fast, that could be an option. But it is expensive and you still need same amount of effort to pass interviews.

[@sophiamorgan27]

I am an IMG/MD with 2 years experience in RESEARCH as a CLINICAL RESEARCH COORDINATOR. Could I apply for this position. I had 3 years experience in Internal Medicine.

[@dr.catslab]

Yes! You will be an ideal candidate! Good luck!

[@sophiamorgan27]

@@dr.catslab thank you so much

[@freepalestinanow]

Can someone with a bachelor in health management and masters in public health become a medical liaison or is phd in communications needed

[@dr.catslab]

No need of a PhD in communication. Communication is important but not a degree

[@dr.1956]

I'm curious what's your major and what course did u study in grad school here in America

[@dr.catslab]

Any bio or medical related major should fulfill the requirements of MSL positions if you are interested in

[@dr.1956]

Make a video about medical affairs vs msl

[@SugarBear-vx3yt]

Medical Affairs is MSL… it’s the division in which they work in pharma.

[@keonnartey5950]

Hello Cat, i Have an MBBS (MD) degree from china with working experience from my home country. Im more interested in medical devices and Big Pharma companies as an MSL. do i need an exam or board certification to get an MSL job in USA or UK ?

[@dr.catslab]

No, you don’t need certification.

[@keonnartey5950]

@@dr.catslab can you give me more insights on how i can proceed then ? 😃

[@dr.catslab]

My opinion is first check the positions that you are interested in. Look at the qualifications to see if you need an advanced degree. Then you can start putting together resumes and networking. Good luck!

[@F91RPG]

I’m a medical student but don’t wanna to be a doctor, and I’m going to take a MSc taught master programme in the coming year! Planning to join this industry afterwards , do I have a chance?

[@dr.catslab]

Yes of course! Take this year to explore different types of options. Finding what you love to do is important! Good luck!

[@F91RPG]

@@dr.catslab is PHD a must? I have done some research and found that almost every MSL holding a PHD degree and and job requirement also list PHD

[@dr.catslab]

Yes typically PhD or any other advanced degrees is a must.

[@F91RPG]

@@dr.catslab ughhhhhhh :( thx !

[@coolvideos6681]

hey. Which education or backg round I should have to become a msl?

[@dr.catslab]

Preferably a PHD or PharmD or MD with experience that demonstrate your communication and clinical skills

[@joejay8918]

Im currently studying Chinese medicine in China as a master candidate with 3 years clinial practice.But i really want to be a MSL in USA.Do i need to get a PhD in USA?which major should i choose?

[@dr.catslab]

PhD is not necessary to be an MSL but it is definitely preferred. Because you study Chinese medicine, I would strongly recommend getting a degree in western medicine such as pharmD or PhD.

[@fgostoryteller2168]

I’m going back to school for a bachelor of pharmaceutical science for cosmetic is a master degree require for this kind of job ?

[@dr.catslab]

Are you talking about MSL in dermatology? Or cosmetics in general?

[@fgostoryteller2168]

@@dr.catslab it a bachelor of pharmaceutical science in cosmetic formulation. Afterward I am planning to do a master of science in skin biology and dermatology science

[@dr.catslab]

Depends on what job you want to get-but in general a master would definitely help!

[@nileshmundkar1120]

hi cat,i am resident doctor working in diabetes and endocrinology.since last 6 months i am working in this dept.i wanted to work in same field more perticularly in diabates.how can i become msl in diabetes?

[@dr.catslab]

Hey! Thanks for the question. If I understand correctly, you have ~6m clinical experience in diabetes/endo? If so, you can try to apply for MSL jobs with you clinical background. Also, You should highlight any other relevant experience to show your communication skills. Start building a resume and apply! Good luck!

[@nileshmundkar1120]

@@dr.catslab yeah.you understood correctly, currently i am working in tertiary care hospital in diabetes and endo as resident doctor.since last 6 months i have extensive experiene in Diabetes(OHAs/INSULIN).

[@achiriu1987]

Basically specialized CSR

[@nb2940]

Hi i am a bsc student at molecular biology and genetic department. Is it possible to find a job with this bsc degree?

[@dr.catslab]

It will be quite difficult. The field wants professionals who have trained to be a scientist or medical professionals

[@snlvl]

It is possible. I know many people who did it. You will.compete indeed with people with PhDs but not impossible.

[@icequeen306]

Hi 👋🏾 I’m a registered nurse and doctor of nursing practice student. Do you think I could have a chance as a MSL? How do I break in without pharma experience?

[@dr.catslab]

I think you could! You could try to see if you can find some intern positions during your doctoral program to gain more experience in pharma/science experience. Good luck!

[@icequeen306]

@@dr.catslab thank you so much. Do you know of any good companies?

[@dr.catslab]

Any small or large companies works. You can browse on job sites to see if there’s any openings close by

[@GK-bm9cs]

Are there any chance for a dental graduate to be an MSL? (with other irrelevant job experiences) Thank you!!

[@NataRubyDdd]

Is PhD degree or MD the basic qualification for applying MSL jobs? Is MS degree got any chance ? 👀

[@dr.catslab]

For most of these jobs yes. The easiest way to know is by looking at the requirements in job descriptions.

[@NataRubyDdd]

@@dr.catslab Thank you❤️

[@amberkay2596]

So you shouldn’t be looking into this if you don’t have a degree or a lot of medical experience?

[@dr.catslab]

You can try with either an advanced degree only or experience only. Make sure you take a look at the job description and see where the gap is.

[@amberkay2596]

@@dr.catslab ok thanks! Great info.