Research and Innovation Hub: Sweden is known for its world-class research institutions and universities, making it an attractive destination for professionals seeking opportunities in scientific research and development.
Multinational Pharmaceutical Companies: Many multinational pharmaceutical companies have a presence in Sweden and actively hire international talent to work in research, development, clinical trials, and other related areas.
Biotechnology and Medical Device Companies: The biotechnology and medical device sectors are also growing in Sweden, providing opportunities for international professionals with expertise in these fields.
Academic and Research Institutes: Swedish universities and research institutes frequently recruit international researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and scientists to contribute to cutting-edge research projects.
Language Proficiency: While English is widely spoken and used in the scientific community in Sweden, having proficiency in Swedish can be beneficial, especially for roles that involve local interactions and collaborations.
Networking and Research Collaborations: Networking and building research collaborations with Swedish scientists and institutions can open up opportunities for international professionals.
Startups and Innovation Hubs: Sweden has a thriving startup ecosystem, including those in the life sciences sector. Startups may offer unique opportunities for international candidates to contribute to innovative projects.
Work Permits and Visas: EU/EEA citizens have the right to work in Sweden without a work permit. Non-EU/EEA citizens typically need a work permit to work in Sweden, and employers may assist in the work permit application process.
Medical and Healthcare Opportunities: International medical professionals may find opportunities in Sweden's healthcare sector, including positions for doctors, nurses, and medical researchers.
COVID-19 Research and Vaccines: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increased focus on research related to vaccines, treatments, and public health measures, creating additional opportunities in these areas.
| Job Profile | Average Salary Range (SEK per year) |
|---|---|
| Research Assistant | 350,000 - 500,000 |
| Laboratory Technician | 300,000 - 450,000 |
| Clinical Research Associate | 400,000 - 600,000 |
| Pharmaceutical Sales Representative | 450,000 - 650,000 |
| Quality Control Analyst | 400,000 - 600,000 |
| Regulatory Affairs Specialist | 550,000 - 800,000 |
| Medical Science Liaison | 600,000 - 900,000 |
| Biomedical Engineer | 500,000 - 700,000 |
| Drug Safety Specialist | 450,000 - 650,000 |
| Microbiologist | 400,000 - 600,000 |
| Clinical Data Manager | 600,000 - 900,000 |
| Pharmacovigilance Specialist | 550,000 - 800,000 |
| Biochemist | 450,000 - 650,000 |
| Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technician | 350,000 - 500,000 |
| Medical Writer | 400,000 - 600,000 |
| Analytical Chemist | 450,000 - 650,000 |
| Biostatistician | 600,000 - 900,000 |
| Medical Technologist | 500,000 - 700,000 |
| Clinical Project Manager | 550,000 - 800,000 |
| Research Scientist | 600,000 - 900,000 |
Work Permit: If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you will typically need a work permit to work in Sweden. EU/EEA citizens have the right to work in Sweden without a permit. Non-EU/EEA citizens must secure a job offer before applying for a work permit.
Job Offer: To obtain a work permit, you must have a job offer from a Swedish employer. The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a qualified candidate from within the EU/EEA or a Swedish citizen.
Qualifications and Experience: The science and pharmaceuticals industry typically values relevant qualifications and experience. For research-related roles, a Ph.D. or relevant postdoctoral experience may be required. For other roles, such as laboratory technicians or quality control analysts, relevant educational qualifications and work experience are important.
Language Skills: While English is widely spoken in the scientific community in Sweden, having proficiency in Swedish can be advantageous, especially for roles that involve local interactions and collaborations.
Networking and Research Collaborations: Networking with professionals in the industry and building research collaborations with Swedish scientists and institutions can open up opportunities for international professionals.
Certifications and Licensing: Some roles in the pharmaceutical industry, such as pharmacists, may require specific certifications or licensing. Be aware of any industry-specific requirements for the role you are interested in.
Visa and Residency: Ensure that you are aware of the visa and residency requirements in Sweden and that you comply with all the necessary procedures for working in the country.
Employer Support: Some companies in Sweden actively hire international talent and may provide support with the work permit application process and relocation assistance. Look for employers who have experience in hiring international candidates.
Networking and Collaboration: Engaging with relevant professional networks and seeking opportunities for collaboration with Swedish institutions can enhance your visibility and increase your chances of finding job opportunities.
Remote Work Opportunities: As of 2021, remote work had become more common due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some companies might offer remote work options, allowing international candidates to work from outside Sweden.
| Job Profile | General Roles and Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Research Assistant | Assisting with research projects; conducting experiments and data analysis; supporting senior researchers. |
| Laboratory Technician | Performing lab tests and experiments; maintaining lab equipment; recording and analyzing data. |
| Clinical Research Associate | Monitoring and coordinating clinical trials; ensuring compliance with regulations and protocols. |
| Pharmaceutical Sales Representative | Promoting pharmaceutical products to healthcare professionals; building and maintaining client relationships. |
| Quality Control Analyst | Conducting quality control tests on products; analyzing and documenting test results; ensuring compliance. |
| Regulatory Affairs Specialist | Managing regulatory submissions and approvals; ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. |
| Medical Science Liaison | Providing medical expertise to healthcare professionals; educating them about pharmaceutical products. |
| Biomedical Engineer | Designing and developing medical equipment and devices; testing and evaluating product performance. |
| Drug Safety Specialist | Monitoring and reporting adverse drug reactions; ensuring drug safety and compliance. |
| Microbiologist | Studying microorganisms; conducting research on bacteria, viruses, and fungi; analyzing samples. |
| Clinical Data Manager | Managing and validating clinical trial data; ensuring data accuracy and integrity. |
| Pharmacovigilance Specialist | Monitoring the safety of pharmaceutical products; analyzing and reporting adverse events. |
| Biochemist | Conducting research on biochemical processes; analyzing proteins, enzymes, and DNA. |
| Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technician | Operating and maintaining pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment; ensuring product quality and safety. |
| Medical Writer | Writing and reviewing medical and scientific documents; creating regulatory documents and publications. |
| Analytical Chemist | Analyzing chemical compounds and products; developing and validating analytical methods. |
| Biostatistician | Designing and analyzing clinical trial data; applying statistical methods to research. |
| Medical Technologist | Performing medical laboratory tests; analyzing patient samples; maintaining lab equipment. |
| Clinical Project Manager | Planning and overseeing clinical research projects; managing timelines and budgets. |
| Research Scientist | Conducting scientific research; designing experiments; publishing research findings. |
| Job Profile | General Job Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Research Assistant | Relevant educational background in a scientific discipline; willingness to assist with research projects. |
| Laboratory Technician | Education or certification in laboratory science or a related field; practical lab skills and attention to detail. |
| Clinical Research Associate | Background in life sciences or healthcare; knowledge of clinical trial regulations and processes. |
| Pharmaceutical Sales Representative | Sales experience; knowledge of pharmaceutical products; excellent communication and presentation skills. |
| Quality Control Analyst | Background in chemistry, biochemistry, or related fields; knowledge of quality control procedures and standards. |
| Regulatory Affairs Specialist | Understanding of regulatory requirements in the pharmaceutical industry; attention to detail and compliance. |
| Medical Science Liaison | Medical or life sciences degree; experience in medical communication and engaging with healthcare professionals. |
| Biomedical Engineer | Degree in biomedical engineering or related field; skills in designing and developing medical devices. |
| Drug Safety Specialist | Knowledge of pharmacovigilance processes and safety regulations; attention to detail and analytical skills. |
| Microbiologist | Degree in microbiology or a related field; experience in studying microorganisms and conducting lab tests. |
| Clinical Data Manager | Background in data management or life sciences; knowledge of clinical trial data and databases. |
| Pharmacovigilance Specialist | Understanding of pharmacovigilance principles; experience in analyzing and reporting adverse drug reactions. |
| Biochemist | Degree in biochemistry or a related field; expertise in studying biochemical processes and analyzing molecules. |
| Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technician | Education or training in pharmaceutical manufacturing; knowledge of GMP and product quality requirements. |
| Medical Writer | Scientific or medical writing experience; knowledge of regulatory writing and publication standards. |
| Analytical Chemist | Degree in analytical chemistry or a related field; experience in analyzing chemical compounds and products. |
| Biostatistician | Education in biostatistics or statistics; proficiency in statistical analysis software and clinical trial data. |
| Medical Technologist | Certification or degree in medical technology; proficiency in medical laboratory techniques and instruments. |
| Clinical Project Manager | Experience in clinical project management; knowledge of clinical trial processes and regulatory requirements. |
| Research Scientist | Ph.D. or relevant postdoctoral experience in a specific scientific field; expertise in conducting research. |
Entry-Level Positions: For entry-level roles, such as research assistants, laboratory technicians, or pharmaceutical sales representatives, employers may seek candidates with limited to moderate experience. These roles often provide on-the-job training and are suitable for recent graduates or individuals looking to start their careers in the industry.
Mid-Level Positions: Mid-level roles, such as clinical research associates, quality control analysts, or regulatory affairs specialists, typically require a few years of experience in a related field. Candidates with specific experience in the pharmaceutical industry or related scientific roles are often preferred.
Senior-Level Positions: Senior-level roles, such as medical science liaisons, pharmaceutical managers, or research scientists, demand extensive experience and expertise in their respective areas. Candidates for these positions are expected to have several years of relevant experience, often with a strong track record of achievements and leadership.
Specialized Experience: Some roles in the industry may require specialized experience, such as drug safety specialists, microbiologists, or biostatisticians. Employers may seek candidates with specific experience in these specialized areas.
Regulatory Experience: For roles in regulatory affairs or pharmacovigilance, experience in dealing with regulatory agencies and understanding pharmaceutical regulations is highly valued.
Clinical Trial Experience: Clinical research and data management roles often require candidates with experience in planning, conducting, and managing clinical trials.
Medical Writing Experience: For medical writer positions, experience in scientific or medical writing, as well as familiarity with regulatory writing standards, may be essential.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Experience: Roles in pharmaceutical manufacturing, such as pharmaceutical manufacturing technicians, may require experience in GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and product quality control.
Leadership and Project Management: Senior-level roles and managerial positions may require candidates with leadership skills and experience in managing teams and projects.
Language Proficiency: While English is widely used in the scientific community in Sweden, having proficiency in Swedish can be beneficial, especially for roles that involve local interactions and collaborations.
AstraZeneca: A global biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative medicines.
Novo Nordisk: A Danish multinational pharmaceutical company known for its research and development of diabetes medications and other biopharmaceutical products.
Pfizer Sweden: A subsidiary of Pfizer Inc., one of the world's leading biopharmaceutical companies, known for its research and development in various therapeutic areas.
Johnson & Johnson Sweden: A multinational medical devices, pharmaceutical, and consumer goods company with operations in Sweden.
Pharmetheus: A Swedish consultancy company specializing in pharmacometrics and quantitative pharmacology.
Recipharm: A contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) with operations in the pharmaceutical industry.
Biovian: A Finnish-Swedish biopharmaceutical CDMO, providing contract development and manufacturing services for biologics.
Medicon Village: A life science cluster in Lund, Sweden, hosting various companies, research institutions, and startups in the life sciences sector.
Roche Sweden: The Swedish subsidiary of Roche, a global pharmaceutical and diagnostics company.
GE Healthcare Life Sciences: A division of General Electric (GE) that provides technologies and services for the life sciences industry.
Celgene Sweden: The Swedish branch of Celgene, a biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative therapies for cancer and other diseases.
Iggesund BioPolymer: A Swedish biopolymer company that develops and produces bio-based materials.
Camurus: A Swedish pharmaceutical company specializing in long-acting medicines for the treatment of severe and chronic conditions.
BioArctic: A Swedish biopharmaceutical company focusing on research and development of disease-modifying treatments for neurological disorders.
PILA Pharma: A Swedish clinical-stage biotech company developing therapies for cancer and inflammatory diseases.
Orexo: A Swedish specialty pharmaceutical company focusing on treatments for opioid addiction and pain management.
Sobi: A Swedish biopharmaceutical company specializing in rare diseases and inflammatory conditions.
Affibody: A Swedish biotech company focused on developing next-generation biopharmaceuticals.
BioInvent: A Swedish biotech company specializing in antibody-based immunotherapies for cancer.
Oncopeptides: A Swedish pharmaceutical company dedicated to developing treatments for hematological cancers.
1. Personal Information: Include your full name, contact information (phone number and email address), and, if applicable, your LinkedIn profile URL.
2. Professional Summary/Objective (Optional): Consider starting with a brief professional summary or objective that highlights your key strengths, career goals, and value proposition as a candidate.
3. Work Experience: List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent job. Include the following details for each position:
4. Education: Include your educational qualifications, starting with the highest degree achieved. Mention the institution's name, degree earned, and graduation year.
5. Skills: Highlight your relevant skills, such as scientific research, drug development, laboratory techniques, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, and any other industry-specific skills.
6. Language Proficiency: Indicate your language proficiency, especially if you are proficient in both Swedish and English.
7. Certifications and Training: Include any relevant certifications, training programs, or professional development courses related to the pharmaceutical and scientific industry.
8. Research Projects/Publications (If Applicable): If you have been involved in research projects or have published scientific papers, consider including them in a separate section.
9. Achievements and Awards: If you have received any awards or accolades for your work in the science and pharmaceutical industry, include them in a separate section.
10. References (Optional): It's not necessary to include references in your CV or resume, but you can mention that references are available upon request.
1. Update Your CV/Resume: Tailor your CV or resume to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and qualifications for the science and pharmaceutical industry. Emphasize your academic background, research experience, and any industry-specific certifications or training.
2. Research Job Opportunities: Explore job portals, company websites, and professional networking platforms for science and pharmaceutical job openings in Sweden. Some popular job portals in Sweden include Arbetsförmedlingen, LinkedIn, Indeed, and Monster.
3. Review Job Descriptions: Carefully read the job descriptions of the positions you are interested in. Understand the qualifications, experience requirements, and responsibilities of each role.
4. Prepare Cover Letter: Write a customized cover letter for each job application. Clearly express your interest in the position, highlight how your skills align with the company's needs, and explain why you are a suitable candidate.
5. Language Proficiency: If you are proficient in Swedish, consider preparing a well-written cover letter and CV in both Swedish and English. This demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in the local language.
6. Networking: Connect with professionals in the science and pharmaceutical industry in Sweden. Attend industry events, webinars, and seminars, both online and in-person, to expand your network and gain insights into potential job opportunities.
7. Submit Applications: Submit your application package, which typically includes your CV/resume and cover letter, through the company's career portal or the email address provided in the job advertisement. Follow the application instructions provided by each employer.
8. Work Permit (for Non-EU/EEA Citizens): If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, ensure you have the necessary work permit to work legally in Sweden. Employers may assist you with the work permit process, but it's essential to understand the requirements and application process.
9. Prepare for Interviews: If your application is successful, you may be invited for an interview. Prepare for interviews by researching the company, practicing common interview questions, and being ready to discuss your experience and expertise in the science and pharmaceutical industry.
10. Language Proficiency Assessment (if required): Some employers may conduct language proficiency assessments, especially if the job involves local interactions with colleagues and clients. Be prepared to demonstrate your language skills if required.
11. Follow Up: After submitting your application or attending an interview, consider sending a follow-up email to express your continued interest in the position.
12. Be Patient and Persistent: Job hunting can take time, so be patient and persistent. Keep applying to relevant job openings and stay proactive in your job search.
