Endocrine Abstracts

For most trainees there is a well-worn path to a consultant post in the NHS. There are however alternatives to this career path- either temporarily or long term. I am one of a number of endocrinologists working in the pharmaceutical industry as medical advisers, clinical research physicians, and medical directors. I will describe my pathway from training in paediatric endocrinology to the industry. I will consider some of the challenges and differences from working in the NHS. I will look at what could be learnt from a temporary stint in the industry, and whether this is possible. I will also look at the future of industry/NHS collaboration and the challenge of revalidating outside the orthodox career pathway.