Working in a Startup vs Big Pharma

Work environments vary quite a bit across the life sciences industry. For example, if you're in the pharmaceutical sector, there's a big difference between working for one of the multinational 'Big Pharma' companies and working for a startup. Both environments offer great opportunities, but they differ significantly in structure, culture and career progression. 

So, whether you’re a fresh graduate or an experienced scientist looking for a change, this blog will help you decide whether working in a start up or for Big Pharma is better for you.

Start Ups 

Pros 
•    Startups often encourage creative freedom and innovative thinking.
•    There tends to be a faster pace of learning at startups.
•    You may have more responsibility and a more varied role working with a startup.
•    You will be at the forefront of new technologies and therapies and will help contribute to developing cutting-edge solutions.
•    Many find the startup environment motivating, leading to increased job satisfaction.

Cons 
•    Startups have a higher failure rate and so there is a risk of job loss.
•    The future of startups can be uncertain.
•    Salaries in startups may be lower, especially in the early stages of their growth. 
•    There is a less structured career path for startups and career progression might be unpredictable. 
•    Startups offer require long hours, especially in the early stages, which can lead to a poor work-life balance. 
•    Startups tend to have fewer resources and infrastructure than Big Pharma. 

Big Pharma

Pros
•    Big Pharma offers a stable and structured environment with established processes.
•    Salaries tend to be higher in Big Pharma compared to startups.
•    Career paths tend to be clearer with a more defined career ladder.
•    Big Pharma has the resources and infrastructure to support its operations. 
•    Big Pharma offers a more predictable work-life balance. 

Cons 
•    Big Pharma roles tend to involve less creative freedom and flexibility. 
•    There is a slower pace of change and decision-making in large companies. 
•    You may only be specialising in one area and get less exposure to other aspects of the company. 
•    Your individual contributions may be more focused on smaller tasks rather than larger projects at the forefront of developments.  
•    Big Pharma may be less open to new ideas and approaches. 

 

How to Choose Between Big Pharma and Startup

While working for a startup offers more creative freedom, flexibility and potential for impact, Big Pharma provides a more structured and stable environment with the potential for a higher salary. If you value creativity, freedom and a fast-paced environment, a startup may be a good fit for you. If you prefer structured, stable environments with defined career progression, Big Pharma may be a better choice. 
There is no “better” option between the two, instead, consider your risk tolerance, personal preferences and career goals and the right decision should become clear to you.

Don’t forget – plenty of professionals move between these two worlds during their career, so there is always an opportunity for change!

If you would like more expert advice and support on securing roles in either Big Pharma or a startup, please don’t hesitate to contact Hyper Recruitment Solutions today!