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Can they imagine the future? A qualitative study exploring the skills employers seek in pharmaceutical sciences doctoral graduates

Author

Listed:
  • Jacqueline E McLaughlin
  • Lana M Minshew
  • Daniel Gonzalez
  • Kelsey Lamb
  • Nicholas J Klus
  • Jeffrey Aubé
  • Wendy Cox
  • Kim L R Brouwer

Abstract

Concerns about the extent to which graduate programs adequately prepare students for the workplace have prompted numerous calls for reform. Understanding what employers look for in doctoral graduates can help schools better align graduate training with workplace needs. Twelve pharmaceutical scientists across diverse specialties and career pathways described the skills considered requisite for success in today’s science economy. Depth and breadth of knowledge, communication, collaboration, adaptability, research productivity, experiential training, and motivation and drive were among the themes identified. These results can be used to inform the development of doctoral curricula in the biomedical sciences.

Suggested Citation

  • Jacqueline E McLaughlin & Lana M Minshew & Daniel Gonzalez & Kelsey Lamb & Nicholas J Klus & Jeffrey Aubé & Wendy Cox & Kim L R Brouwer, 2019. "Can they imagine the future? A qualitative study exploring the skills employers seek in pharmaceutical sciences doctoral graduates," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 14(9), pages 1-12, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0222422
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222422
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    References listed on IDEAS

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