top of page

Career Paths and Insights in Japan's Pharmaceutical Industry: A Comprehensive Employment Guide


Japanese Pharmaceutical Industry Employment

  1. Introduction of Japanese Pharmaceutical Industry Employment


The pharmaceutical industry in Japan is one of the crucial sectors that meets both domestic and international medical needs, holding the position as the world's third-largest market. This industry plays an essential role in maintaining the health of the population and improving the quality of healthcare in an aging Japan. Furthermore, prominent companies such as Takeda Pharmaceutical, Shionogi & Co., and Daiichi Sankyo are asserting their presence in the global market, maintaining international competitiveness through the development of innovative new drugs and the introduction of advanced medical technologies.


The Japanese pharmaceutical sector is characterized by its stringent regulatory and approval processes for bringing new drugs to the market, supporting the industry's cautious growth. However, the competitive landscape is intensifying due to the rapid advancement of biotechnologies and digital technologies. In response, Japanese companies are increasing their investments in research and development (R&D), enhancing their competitiveness through open innovation and global partnerships.


This article provides a detailed discussion on the Japanese pharmaceutical industry employment, specifically the current state of the pharmaceutical industry in Japan, its major companies, research and development efforts, challenges, and future prospects, explaining how the industry is evolving and adapting. Additionally, it touches upon careers within the industry, sharing selection steps related to employment and tips for each step.



2. Current State of the Pharmaceutical Industry in Japan


The pharmaceutical industry in Japan occupies a significant position globally due to the size of its domestic market and its research and development capabilities. However, in recent years, the industry has faced challenges such as increasing difficulty in developing new drugs, rising healthcare costs, and the progression of an aging society.


2.1 Industry Size and Market Trends


As of 2023, the Japanese pharmaceutical industry boasts a market size of approximately 10 trillion yen, making it the third largest pharmaceutical market in the world after the United States and China. Major domestic companies like Takeda Pharmaceutical, Daiichi Sankyo, Shionogi & Co., and Astellas Pharma are also highly regarded on a global scale. A distinctive feature of Japan’s pharmaceutical industry is its high dependency on the domestic market, particularly driven by the increasing demand for medications due to an aging population. Meanwhile, foreign pharmaceutical firms, including Pfizer, Novartis, and Sanofi, are actively entering the Japanese market and expanding their share. This has intensified competition within the market in recent years.


2.2 Key Products and Services


The main products in the Japanese pharmaceutical industry are broadly classified into two categories: new drugs and generic drugs.


Trends in New Drug Development

New drug development incorporates cutting-edge technologies like biopharmaceuticals and gene therapy, in addition to traditional pharmaceuticals. Japan possesses advanced technological capabilities in developing new drugs, especially in the fields of cancer and chronic disease treatments. However, new drug development involves significant costs and time, and the success rate is low, posing considerable risks for companies. Thus, major pharmaceutical companies are streamlining development processes and optimizing the design of drugs using AI technology to enhance efficiency.


Generic Drugs

From a cost-containment perspective, the use of generic drugs is encouraged, and the Japanese government is promoting their proliferation. Generic drugs, which contain the same active ingredients as new drugs but are offered at lower prices, play a vital role, particularly in an aging society where rising healthcare costs are a concern. As of 2023, generic drugs account for over 80% of the market share, and this percentage is expected to increase further.


Biopharmaceuticals and Advanced Medical Technologies

Biopharmaceuticals, based on recombinant DNA technology and cell therapy, are rapidly growing in Japan. The development of therapeutic drugs using antibody medications and cell culture techniques is progressing, and the market for biosimilars (generic versions of biopharmaceuticals) is also expected to expand.


2.3 Regulatory and Approval Processes


Roles of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and PMDA

In Japan, the approval of pharmaceuticals is regulated by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA). PMDA reviews clinical trial data for new drugs and assesses their safety and efficacy. The approval process is extremely stringent, with a system design prioritizing patient safety.


Challenges and Recent Trends in the Approval Process

The approval process in Japan tends to be slower compared to other countries, which has been a factor in diminishing competitive strength in the market. In response, reforms are being implemented to accelerate the approval process, including rapid approval systems and more flexible uses of drugs outside their initial indications. Additionally, the automation of the review process using digital technologies and AI is being introduced, promising more rapid and efficient approvals in the future.



3. The Importance of Research and Development (R&D) in the Pharmaceutical Industry


Research and Development (R&D) is the most critical factor influencing the competitiveness of the pharmaceutical industry. In particular, the development of new drugs is key to the long-term success of companies, which warrants significant investment. The Japanese pharmaceutical industry is no exception, with major companies actively advancing their R&D efforts. This section will detail investment trends in R&D, initiatives in open innovation, and the use of digital technologies.


3.1 Current R&D Investment by Japanese Pharmaceutical Companies


Japanese pharmaceutical companies invest substantial funds in research and development, allocating approximately 15-20% of total industry sales to R&D. Major companies like Takeda Pharmaceutical, Astellas Pharma, and Shionogi & Co. are focusing on developing innovative drugs and therapies to maintain competitiveness in the global market.


For instance, Takeda Pharmaceutical has recently concentrated its R&D on oncology, rare diseases, neuroscience, and gastrointestinal disorders, introducing innovative treatments through global partnerships and mergers and acquisitions. Astellas Pharma is increasing its investments in gene therapy, while Eisai is well-known for focusing on the development of Alzheimer's disease treatments.


On the other hand, Shionogi & Co. is actively hiring talented researchers and specialists from around the world to enhance its competitiveness in the global pharmaceutical market, particularly focusing on infectious diseases, neurological disorders, and immune diseases. Shionogi's global R&D strategy emphasizes integrating cutting-edge technology and insights through collaborations with research facilities and universities both in Japan and abroad. This approach ensures the diversity and depth of research needed to develop new therapeutic drugs, building a foundation to provide new treatment options for patients worldwide. According to a press release in June 2023, Shionogi is also enhancing its international R&D network by establishing new research facilities and expanding existing ones*1.


Japanese R&D investment is part of a long-term growth strategy that considers the global market, serving as a critical means for companies to exhibit global competitiveness.


3.2 Open Innovation and Collaborative Research


In recent years, drug development in the pharmaceutical industry has become more complex, and developing drugs independently is increasingly risky. Consequently, many companies are adopting "open innovation," advancing collaborative research with external research institutions, venture companies, and universities.


Collaboration with Universities and Venture Companies

For example, Takeda Pharmaceutical is accelerating the development of new treatments through joint research with universities and research institutions both domestically and internationally. Collaborative basic research between major pharmaceutical companies and universities allows the rapid application of the latest scientific findings, enhancing the efficiency of new drug development. In Japan, the role of venture companies in the biotechnology field is expanding, and technical collaborations and licensing agreements between pharmaceutical companies and ventures are increasing. This enhances the speed of technological innovation and shortens the time to market.


Similarly, Shionogi & Co. is actively embracing open innovation, especially promoting joint research with venture companies and universities in regions considered emerging markets. As a recent initiative, they have begun developing new technologies for the early detection and treatment of infectious diseases in collaboration with healthcare startups in Africa*2. This project aims to address local medical needs directly through regionally rooted research activities, aiming to respond to global health issues. These collaborative research efforts contribute not only to the development of healthcare solutions in emerging markets but also to improving global medical access.


Global Research and Development Partnerships

Japanese pharmaceutical companies are strengthening alliances with pharmaceutical companies and research institutions abroad, utilizing a global network to incorporate diverse expertise and technologies from different countries to accelerate new drug development. Partnerships with biotechnology companies in the US and Europe, in particular, play a vital role in exploring new therapeutic areas.


3.3 Introduction of Digital Technologies


The pharmaceutical industry is rapidly adopting digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Although the process of new drug development is complex and time-consuming, using AI and big data can lead to more efficient drug design and faster clinical trials.


Innovation in New Drug Development with AI

AI is used to analyze vast amounts of data, predicting the properties and potential effects of compounds. This makes the screening process in the early stages of R&D more efficient, increasing the likelihood of identifying promising drug candidates in a shorter period. Molecular modeling and simulation techniques using AI are also expected to improve the success rates of clinical trials.


Application of Digital Technologies in Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are seeing advancements in the real-time analysis of patient data and more efficient patient recruitment processes. This leads to more accurate trial outcomes and shortens the duration of trials. Particularly, the adoption of remote monitoring and electronic data capture systems has enhanced the transparency and efficiency of trials.


Future Possibilities Offered by Digitalization

As digital technologies continue to evolve, the pharmaceutical industry is expected to undergo significant transformation. The progress of digital transformation (DX) is anticipated to contribute to the optimization of supply chains, automation of production processes, and the refinement of marketing and sales strategies.



4. Challenges and Prospects for Japan's Pharmaceutical Industry


While Japan's pharmaceutical industry possesses high technical capabilities and a track record of research and development both domestically and internationally, it also faces several significant challenges. At the same time, solutions to these challenges are expected to further advance the industry. This section will elaborate on the main challenges the industry faces and the prospects for each.


4.1 Costs and Risks of New Drug Development


Rising Development Costs

Developing new drugs requires significant funding and time. As research and development progresses, the demand for innovative treatments increases, along with their costs. The process to approve a new drug involves multiple stages, including basic research, clinical trials, and regulatory submissions, with total costs potentially reaching hundreds of billions of yen per drug. Additionally, there is a high risk of failure during development, with many investments not yielding returns.


Measures and Prospects

To address this challenge, pharmaceutical companies are implementing AI technologies to streamline the development process. Using AI for data analysis and molecular modeling is expected to reduce failure rates in the early stages of development and cut costs. Furthermore, the promotion of open innovation is facilitating the decentralization of research and development and risk-sharing. Collaboration with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies from other countries is expected to accelerate further.


4.2 Need for Regulatory Reform


Speed of Drug Approval and Decreased Global Competitiveness

Japan's pharmaceutical industry is noted for its slower drug approval processes compared to other countries. New drug approvals in the Japanese market are particularly slow compared to the United States and Europe, affecting global competitiveness. The slow approval process domestically also delays access to new drugs for patients in Japan.


Regulatory Improvements and Introduction of Digital Technologies

To address this issue, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) are advancing regulatory reforms, including expedited approval systems and expanded priority reviews for specific diseases. The use of digital technologies to streamline the review process is expected to expedite new drug approvals and enhance competitiveness.


4.3 Global Expansion and Innovation Promotion


Impact of Aging Population and Global Expansion

Although Japan's market is limited due to aging, the demand for new pharmaceuticals is increasing due to demographic changes. According to a survey by IQVIA INSTITUTE, the domestic new drug market is expected to grow at an annual rate of +1.3% over the next five years until 2028*3. In particular, there is a growing demand for drugs and medical services for the elderly, providing growth opportunities for the pharmaceutical industry. Thus, active development of innovative pharmaceuticals and medical technologies is underway, not only for the domestic market but also for global distribution.


In this global expansion, Japanese pharmaceutical companies are particularly targeting markets in Asia, North America, and Europe, actively establishing research and development bases and manufacturing facilities in these regions. By accelerating the registration and sales of new drugs in foreign markets, they are further enhancing their global competitiveness. Especially in the Asian market, rapid population growth and economic development are creating swiftly rising medical needs, requiring strategic approaches to address them.


Strengthening International Collaboration

To maintain and expand global competitiveness, collaboration with foreign research institutions and pharmaceutical companies is essential. Japanese pharmaceutical companies are promoting innovation through an international research and development network, incorporating the latest scientific technologies and market data, and jointly developing products. This is accelerating the development of new drugs that meet advanced medical needs, such as cancer treatments and rare disease therapies.



5. Careers in Japan's Pharmaceutical Industry


The pharmaceutical industry in Japan attracts many talented individuals from both domestically and internationally, offering a wealth of career opportunities. There are a wide range of job types available, including research and development of new drugs, manufacturing, sales, and marketing, providing diverse career paths in the medical field. This section will explain the main career options in Japan's pharmaceutical industry, the necessary skills, and future career prospects.


5.1 Key Roles within Pharmaceutical Companies


Research and Development (R&D) Department

The R&D department is the heart of a pharmaceutical company and is central to the drug discovery process. This department is where new drugs are discovered and pre-clinical and clinical trials are conducted, employing a variety of professionals such as researchers, scientists, and clinical trial coordinators. Especially with advances in biotechnology, genomic analysis, and AI-assisted drug discovery, careers in R&D require advanced scientific knowledge and technical skills.


Manufacturing and Production Management Department

The manufacturing department in pharmaceutical companies plays a crucial role in areas such as quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA). The manufacturing sites operate under stringent management compliant with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), ensuring the production of accurate and safe pharmaceuticals. This department offers roles like plant managers, production engineers, and facility engineers, providing an attractive career path for those with a science and engineering background.


Marketing and Sales Department

Marketing and sales in the pharmaceutical industry are responsible for introducing pharmaceutical products to the market and providing information to doctors and medical institutions. Medical Representatives (MRs), in particular, facilitate the appropriate use of medications through communication with doctors, contributing to the growth of pharmaceutical companies. MRs and marketing professionals not only need expertise in pharmaceuticals but also communication and sales skills.


Regulatory Affairs Department

The regulatory affairs department involves specialists who manage drug approvals and regulatory compliance, requiring coordination with regulatory authorities both in Japan and abroad. Regulatory work plays a crucial role in the global operations of the pharmaceutical industry, making careers as regulatory specialists or managers highly specialized and in demand. Knowledge of regulations and an understanding of international rules are required, making a background in pharmacology or law beneficial.


5.2 Required Skills and Qualifications


Scientific Knowledge and Technical Skills

Especially in R&D, deep knowledge in scientific fields such as chemistry, biology, pharmacology, and engineering is required. Skills related to cutting-edge technologies like biopharmaceuticals, personalized medicine, and genomic analysis are also crucial. While specialized education at universities or graduate schools forms the foundation of a career, industry-specific knowledge and understanding of regulations are also essential.


Communication Skills and Presentation Abilities

Particularly in sales, marketing, and regulatory affairs, where interaction with medical institutions and regulatory bodies is frequent, effective communication skills are vital. The ability to present complex information clearly and build trust with medical professionals can significantly influence success in the industry.


Language Skills and Global Perspective

As the Japanese pharmaceutical industry aims to enhance its competitiveness in international markets, multilingual abilities, especially in English, are highly advantageous for career development. Particularly in regulatory affairs and international operations, high proficiency in languages is required. Moreover, understanding the pharmaceutical market from an international perspective and having a strategic vision for global expansion are crucial.


5.3 Employment Appeal of Japanese Pharmaceutical Companies


Salary Levels:

  • Japanese Companies: Salary levels in Japanese pharmaceutical companies are generally stable, with solid base salaries. The culture of seniority is still prevalent, and salaries tend to increase progressively with years of service. Particularly in recent years, reflecting the overall mood for wage increases in Japan, successive salary raises have been implemented in the pharmaceutical industry*4. Many companies provide bonuses once or twice a year, which is an attractive feature for employees.

  • Foreign Companies: In foreign-owned companies, salary levels are relatively high, especially the starting salaries, which are often higher than those in Japanese companies. Performance-based evaluations are common in foreign companies, allowing for significant salary increases in a short period, although this also brings considerable pressure to achieve performance targets. Additionally, compensation systems like incentive bonuses are well-developed, but rewards are closely tied to performance, which can lead to uncertainty in income stability.


Stability of Employment and Career Development Opportunities:

  • Japanese Companies: Japanese pharmaceutical companies are known for offering long-term employment and providing stable career paths. The average tenure often exceeds 15 years, with companies supporting the long-term growth and development of their employees*5. Such an environment gives employees a sense of security at work and motivates them to work towards long-term goals.

  • Foreign Companies: Employment in foreign companies is highly fluid with performance-based evaluations, but they offer rapid career advancement opportunities and the chance to gain multinational experience. However, this environment can also bring instability and pressure at work.


Welfare Benefits:

  • Japanese Companies: Japanese pharmaceutical companies offer extensive welfare benefits, including family allowances and housing support, which help support the overall life of employees. These benefits make it easier for employees to maintain a work-life balance and facilitate the balancing of work with family life.

  • Foreign Companies: While salaries are often higher, welfare benefits vary by position and career level and may not be as comprehensive as those offered by Japanese companies. High salaries are attractive, but if welfare benefits are insufficient, they can impact the quality of life.


Investment in Research and Development:

  • Japanese Companies: Japanese pharmaceutical companies consistently invest solidly in research and development. This allows employees to work in a stable research environment.

  • Foreign Companies: Foreign-owned companies make significant investments to enhance their competitiveness in the global market, although this can lead to sudden changes or interruptions in projects. Access to new technologies and treatments is fast, but the associated risks are high due to the changes.


Organizational Culture and Work-Life Balance:

  • Japanese Companies: Japanese companies are characterized by a strong sense of solidarity and cooperative relationships among employees. The close relationship between supervisors and subordinates fosters a united effort to achieve goals. There is also a growing emphasis on work-life balance, creating a more comfortable working environment.

  • Foreign Companies: Foreign companies encourage horizontal communication and swift decision-making. Flexible work arrangements are possible, which can make it easier to achieve a work-life balance, but the high performance demanded can also create pressure.


In summary, Japanese pharmaceutical companies provide a very attractive work environment for employees by offering long-term employment stability, comprehensive welfare benefits, a sustainable research environment, and a cooperative organizational culture.


5.4 Future Career Prospects


Creation of New Roles through AI and Digital Health

The advancement of AI and digital technologies is likely to create new job types and roles within the pharmaceutical industry. Data scientists and AI specialists will contribute to the efficiency of drug discovery and clinical trials, and with the spread of digital healthcare, roles that coordinate with IT and medical devices will also increase. Individuals with skills in these new areas are expected to be in high demand in the future industry.


Career Opportunities in Startups

The pharmaceutical industry is seeing an increase in startups handling biotechnology and regenerative medicine, making careers in venture companies an attractive option. Unlike large corporations, these companies offer flexible work styles and opportunities to engage in innovative technology development, making them a noteworthy option for personal growth and utilizing expertise in specialized areas.



6. Selection Process at Japanese Pharmaceutical Companies and Tips for Securing an Offer


For international university students aiming to build a career in the Japanese pharmaceutical industry, the selection process to secure an offer involves the following steps:

  1. University Life

  2. Industry Research

  3. Entry Sheet

  4. Aptitude Tests

  5. Interviews

  6. Internship

  7. Final Interview → Job Offer


This section provides useful tips on how to approach each step.


  1. University Life (From August of the First Year until Entry)

    1. Overview:

      1. In the pharmaceutical industry, depth of specialized knowledge is highly valued. It is crucial to deepen knowledge in related scientific fields such as biology and chemistry. Engaging in activities that enhance problem-solving abilities and critical thinking is also beneficial.


    2. Tasks:

      1. Actively participate in science-related extracurricular activities and research projects to deepen your expertise while also developing teamwork and leadership skills.


    3. Tips:

      1. Pharmaceutical companies highly value candidates who are passionate about research. Prepare to speak passionately about your research or projects and be ready to demonstrate concrete results.


  2. Industry Research (From June of the Second Year until Entry)

    1. Overview:

      1. A deep understanding of the current state of the pharmaceutical industry, trends in new drug development, market trends, important regulatory changes, and the status of various companies is required. It’s also necessary to grasp the impact of technological innovations on the industry. Enhancing your understanding of the business models and specifics of each company can help you find the right fit and express a high level of motivation during interviews.


    2. Tasks:

      1. Continuously follow the latest industry trends through diverse sources such as industry magazines, scientific journals, and online forums.

      2. Attend company briefings and visit employees. These activities are invaluable for obtaining firsthand insights that cannot be gained through desk research. For arranging employee visits, tools like Jelper Club, LinkedIn, or BizReach can be effectively used.

    3. Tips:

      1. Be proactive in arranging employee visits, as they can demonstrate your strong interest in a company.

      2. Ensure to observe business etiquette during email correspondence and visits to make a professional impression.

      3. Preferably make requests for employee visits via email to allow employees to check their availability.

      4. When visiting employees, prepare questions that are not easily answered with a simple search, but instead, gather 'raw voices' that can only be obtained from employees who actually work at the company. To facilitate this, prepare a few questions in advance and develop hypotheses to challenge during the discussion. This approach not only fosters better discussions but also often yields valuable responses.


  1. Entry Sheet (From May of the Third Year until Entry Deadline)

    1. Overview:

      1. In your self-promotion and motivation sections, it's not enough to list skills and experiences. You need to articulate how your background and experiences enable you to excel in the pharmaceutical industry and how your strengths align with the company culture and industry.

    2. Tasks:

      1. Prepare content that reflects your academic background, research experience, and deep understanding of the industry. Use specific examples to highlight your personal statement and ensure your arguments are logically connected.

    3. Tips:

      1. Have multiple people review your entry sheet to incorporate objective opinions. It is crucial to create a professional and clear document.


  1. Aptitude Tests (From June of the Third Year until Test Deadline)

    1. Overview:

      1. You may need to take tests such as SPI or C-GAB. Many aptitude tests are available online, but sometimes you need to visit a test center, so be sure to check in advance.

    2. Tasks:

      1. Be aware of the aptitude tests as international students often overlook this component. Despite having an advantage in English tests, many students fail to pass the selection due to language or non-verbal tests (mathematics). It's essential to have a basic understanding of what these tests involve and the time constraints.

        1. Click here for the SPI book

        2. Click here for the Tamatebako and C-GAB books

    3. Tips:

      1. The challenge in aptitude tests often lies in the time constraints rather than the difficulty of the questions. Familiarity with the question format can significantly improve your scores.

      2. Reuse your test results for other companies requiring the same aptitude test, especially if you perform well.


  2. Interviews (From October of the Third Year until June of the Fourth Year)

    1. Overview:

      1. Interviews assess not only specialized knowledge but also ethical views and communication skills. You will be tested on your ability to articulate your thoughts and experiences using specific examples. Some companies conduct interviews in English to test language skills, and initial stages may involve recorded interviews.

    2. Tasks:

      1. Prepare for interviews in both Japanese and English by creating a set of expected questions and answers. Consider adding your own questions and exploring them in depth to be well-prepared.

      2. Here are some example questions:

        1. Self-introduction (Please briefly introduce yourself.)

        2. Self-promotion (What are your strengths?)

        3. Your strengths and weaknesses (What are your strengths and weaknesses?)

        4. Motivation for applying

          1. Motivation for the pharmaceutical industry (Why did you choose the pharmaceutical industry?)

          2. Motivation for the specific company and job role (Why did you apply for this position?)

          3. Comparison with Academia Careers (Why did you prefer industry over academia?)

        5. Mid-to-long-term career vision (What kind of career do you envision for yourself in five or ten years?)

        6. Research

          1. Research content (Please describe your research.)

          2. Research attitude (Tell us about your approach to research.)

          3. Interaction with professors (How do you interact with your professors and lab colleagues?)

        7. Other efforts during university (extracurricular activities) (What efforts did you make outside of your studies during your university years?)

        8. How you handle difficult situations (Could you describe a particularly challenging situation you've faced and how you managed to overcome it?)

        9. Questions about teamwork (Can you provide an example of how you have worked collaboratively within a team to solve problems?)

        10. Questions about leadership (If you have had any leadership experience, could you describe it and the outcomes achieved under your leadership?)

        11. Questions about industry trends and specialized knowledge (What are your thoughts on how [specific trend] is impacting the pharmaceutical industry?)

        12. Questions about relocation (How do you feel about the possibility of relocating for work?)

        13. Questions you might ask in return

      3. Practice interviews with friends or seniors, possibly those who have secured positions in the pharmaceutical industry. Receive and utilize their feedback.

    3. Tips:

      1. Prepare specific and persuasive responses not only for your self-introduction but also for other questions. Be polite and confident.

      2. When asked about topics requiring specialized knowledge, such as your research, strive to answer in a way that is understandable even for those unfamiliar with the field.

      3. Actively engage in interview practice to improve the accuracy of your performance. Objective feedback from others can enhance your perspective on how you present yourself. Take this feedback seriously and use it to improve the quality of your responses for future interviews.


  1. Internship (From June of the Third Year until June of the Fourth Year)

    1. Overview:

      1. An internship is an opportunity to experience actual work, understand the company culture, and have your practical skills evaluated.

    2. Tasks:

      1. Take an active part in tasks and demonstrate your ability to collaborate and solve problems within a team.

    3. Tips:

      1. Keep detailed records of what you learn and experience during the internship to discuss them concretely during interviews or the final selection process.


  1. Final Interview (From October of the Fourth Year until June of the Fourth Year)

    1. Overview:

      1. This is where a comprehensive evaluation of the candidate takes place, with a focus on understanding of and passion for the industry. The atmosphere is often more formal compared to earlier interviews.

    2. Tasks:

      1. Preparation for the final interview is similar to other interviews. Refer to the above-mentioned expected questions.

    3. Tips:

      1. Leverage past internship and research experiences, and use concrete examples to highlight your strengths and passion for the industry.


Note: Annual recruitment schedules can change, and some companies set unique schedules for international students, so always check the official recruitment pages of each company for detailed schedules and application requirements.



7. Conclusion


The pharmaceutical industry in Japan plays a crucial role in advancing healthcare both domestically and internationally, and its influence is expected to expand further. Despite facing various challenges such as the maturity of the domestic market and intense global competition, the opportunities arising from technological innovations and regulatory advancements are significant, with particularly strong growth expected in the fields of biotechnology and digital healthcare.


In the future, as technological innovations continue and international expansion progresses, the pharmaceutical industry will need to develop more effective and innovative drugs while complying with both domestic and international regulations. For those aiming for a career in the pharmaceutical industry, acquiring scientific knowledge and technical skills, along with a flexible approach and a global perspective, is essential. Talents capable of supporting future growth and leading the industry will be pivotal in shaping its future.


When considering employment in the pharmaceutical industry, Jelper Club is an ideal platform providing the right resources and job information. This platform features profiles of various pharmaceutical companies and exclusive job listings available only through Jelper Club.


Additionally, Jelper Club hosts face-to-face events such as "Soirée Tokyo," which are attended by members who work in the pharmaceutical industry. These events are highly effective networking opportunities, allowing participants to gather and share the latest trends, attractions, career tips, and selection information about the pharmaceutical industry. Jelper Club plans to continue actively posting job listings in this field and providing attractive career opportunities. Please make sure to frequently check the "Job Updates."


Furthermore, Jelper Club will continue to publish articles explaining various industries and job types. If you have any questions or concerns about an industry that interests you, please actively post them on the "Feed."


Sources and Notes


1.「米国Qpex Biopharma社の完全子会社化に関するお知らせ」(塩野義製薬株式会社):

2. 「Signing of Collaboration Agreement in the Third Phase of the "Mother to Mother SHIONOGI Project" - App Development for Diarrhea Prevention in Tanzania -塩野義製薬株式会社https://www.shionogi.com/global/en/news/2023/12/20231222.html

3. 「28年医薬品市場予測 日本はマイナスまたは低成長も世界3位を維持 新薬は伸長も特許切れ後市場は縮小」(ミクスOnline):https://www.mixonline.jp/tabid55.html?artid=76023

4. 「製薬も初任給引き上げ、5000~1万5000円  優秀人材確保へ、企業姿勢をアピール」(日刊薬業):https://nk.jiho.jp/article/188622

5. 「製薬業界 勤続年数ランキング」(業界動向サーチ):https://gyokai-search.com/4-iyaku-kinzoku.htm



(Editor: Jelper Club Editorial Team)



Comments


bottom of page