Pharmacologist
A pharmacologist is responsible for studying the effects of drugs on humans. He or she usually works in a laboratory and conducts specific research studies. Pharmacologists are skilled at using various types of laboratory equipment, designing tests, and performing chemical processes. He or she is concerned with how a drug is absorbed by the body, as well as how the drug is metabolized, distributed, and eliminated from the body. Some of these professionals may work with animals to perform tests that cannot be conducted on humans. In these cases, the pharmacologist administers the drug to the animal and then documents changes based upon various test criteria. Other typical duties include: record keeping, data analysis, research, data entry, report creation, equipment repair and maintenance, and maintaining laboratory supplies.
Pharmacologists are required to hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in pharmacology, physiology, or other biology field. Some employers may require a Master’s degree in pharmacology for certain positions. Pharmacologists are also required to have a great deal of laboratory experience, a vast knowledge of different chemicals and drugs, and must follow laboratory protocol. At least two-years of on the job training is needed. Exceptional writing skills, strong communication skills, specimen collection skills, testing skills, surgical skills, computer skills, and animal handling skills are necessary.
The average salary of an experienced pharmacologist is about $94,250 per year. Individuals who specialize in cancer or HIV research areas have a higher earning potential.
