For many pharmaceutical sales representatives, becoming a Medical Science Liaison (MSL) remains one of the most sought-after career moves in the life sciences industry. Offering greater scientific engagement, strategic stakeholder relationships and a pathway into medical affairs, the role continues to attract ambitious commercial professionals.
However, the pathway is becoming increasingly competitive.
why is the transition becoming more challenging?
Historically, some organisations were willing to hire high-performing pharmaceutical representatives into MSL positions based on their therapeutic knowledge and relationship-building skills.
Today, employers are placing greater emphasis on scientific qualifications, postgraduate education and previous exposure to medical affairs. As the role becomes increasingly specialised, strong commercial capability alone is often no longer enough.
This trend is particularly evident within the pharmaceutical industry, where MSLs play a critical role in scientific exchange with healthcare professionals. While MSL opportunities also exist within medical devices and diagnostics, these functions are often structured differently and may provide alternative pathways for candidates looking to broaden their experience.
what can candidates do to improve their chances?
While the move from sales representative to MSL is still possible, candidates who successfully make the transition are typically proactive in developing their scientific expertise.
This may include:
- Building deep knowledge within a therapeutic area
- Completing postgraduate study or additional scientific qualifications
- Seeking opportunities to work alongside medical affairs teams
- Participating in clinical discussions, education programs or industry congresses
Candidates who can demonstrate both scientific curiosity and commercial acumen are often the most competitive.
"Many organisations continue to prioritise candidates with previous MSL experience, particularly as medical affairs functions become increasingly specialised. However, this approach can significantly limit the available talent pool. Some of the most successful MSLs we've placed have come from strong commercial backgrounds, bringing exceptional stakeholder engagement skills and deep therapeutic knowledge. For employers facing talent shortages, the question is whether hiring managers are willing to invest in developing high-potential candidates, rather than competing for the same experienced MSL talent."
- Stephanie Iveson, Principal Consultant - Life Sciences, Medical Device & Pharmaceutical
is becoming an MSL still realistic?
The short answer is yes, but candidates should approach the transition with realistic expectations.
For those without a scientific degree or medical affairs exposure, the journey may require additional education, experience and patience. Rather than viewing the move as an immediate next step, candidates should focus on building the technical and scientific capabilities that employers increasingly value.
looking ahead
The pathway from pharmaceutical sales representative to Medical Science Liaison has evolved, but it has not disappeared.
For candidates, success increasingly depends on combining strong commercial skills with scientific expertise. For employers, there remains an opportunity to expand talent pools by identifying high-potential commercial professionals who can be developed into future MSLs.
As demand for medical affairs talent continues to grow, organisations that balance experience with potential may be best positioned to secure the talent they need.