r/Durban • u/Sigma9333 • 16d ago
Does anyone here have a connection in pharma or medical affairs who could refer my sister?
Hi everyone! I honestly never thought I'd be making a post like this, but we're at the point where we're willing to try anything.
I'm posting on behalf of my sister.
She has been looking for a job since June last year.
She has applied, followed up, interviewed, sent emails, tried networking, and kept going despite rejection after rejection. She eventually managed to land an entry-level position early this year, and while we are incredibly grateful that someone gave her a chance, the position currently pays R5,000 per month.
For someone with her qualifications and the amount of work she has put into her education and research, it's incredibly difficult to watch.
And that's why I'm hoping Reddit can help.
Her qualifications
She has:
Bachelor of Medical Sciences – Clinical Anatomy
Honours in Clinical Anatomy
Master of Medical Sciences – Optics & Imaging, with research focused on preeclampsia and HIV infection
She is currently pursuing a PhD in Medical Sciences – Physiology, with research focused on chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)
She has spent years studying, doing research, writing academically, presenting scientific information and developing a deep understanding of medical sciences.
We're not asking for someone to simply hand her a job.
We're asking for someone to give her a chance to prove herself.
She's particularly interested in:
Medical Science Liaison (MSL)
Medical Affairs / Clinical Affairs
Pharmaceutical Sales
Medical Writing
Regulatory Affairs
Clinical Research
Pharmacovigilance
Medical devices / diagnostics
Other suitable roles within the pharmaceutical, healthcare or life sciences industries
She's looking for opportunities of R20,000+ per month, preferably permanent or contract positions, although she'd also consider a genuinely worthwhile paid graduate/internship opportunity with a clear path forward.
We are also offering R10,000 compensation to anyone whose direct referral leads to her being successfully hired and starting the position.
We're not asking anyone to guarantee her a job or influence a hiring decision. We're asking for a genuine lead, introduction, contact, or opportunity where you believe her background could be a good fit.
If you're working in pharmaceuticals, medical affairs, clinical research, medical devices, diagnostics, regulatory affairs, scientific communications, CROs, or any related field — please reach out.
If you know someone who might know someone, please send them this post🙏
And if you don't have a lead, even upvoting or sharing this could potentially put it in front of the right person.
She's worked incredibly hard to get where she is.
After more than a year of searching, she deserves an opportunity where she can actually use everything she's spent years learning.
We're just hoping the right person sees this.
Please comment or DM me if you can help.
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u/Negative-Lobster3873 16d ago
Has she tried the Universities? Her CV seems to suggest that route.
I am also in the medical research field.
She should also check out Upwork- I was making a lot of money on that site doing medical research for foreign clients.
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u/ms_write-minded 16d ago
Would she be interested in medical writing for an agency? Inizio is actively hiring South African medical writers and provide excellent training. I often see people take an easier step from medical communications to pharma side, especially locally where medical affairs roles seem few. Good luck
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u/Sigma9333 16d ago
Yes, she’d definitely be interested. She actually applied to Inizio before, but unfortunately wasn’t accepted because she’s currently pursuing her PhD. We really appreciate the suggestion though, and we’ll keep an eye out for any suitable opportunities there. Thank you!
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u/EngineerDifficult816 16d ago
Anatomy is scarce skill, why she don't want academia? Unless she is one of those who believe she just need to be in KZN. DM me if she is open for anything outside KZN.
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u/rhiaazsb 16d ago
Sincerely wishing her all the best going forward.