Overview
Applying for a Research and Development (R&D) position with a medical device company can be a challenging yet worthwhile endeavor. The need to do background research on the employer and its products is critical. This will give you the advantage over other candidates. The competition is high, but the field is constantly expanding as new medical devices are created and tested to improve the health and well being of patients.
Step 1
Do your research. Find out which medical device companies are busy doing the latest research. This is often an indication of which companies have current work for R&D employees. Learn about the medical device itself. What does it do, how does it operate, where is it used? Understanding this can be the key to landing that job. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website has extensive information on medical devices it has reviewed and is a solid place to start your research.
Step 2
Join a professional organization like the Medical Device Manufacturers Association (MDMA). This group provides support to device manufacturers, shares the latest trends in the industry and hosts a career-linking website for potential employees and employers.
Step 3
Know what medical devices are being used in clinical trials. After learning about the device, educate yourself on what type of R&D is under way. What phase is the research in? What is the scope of the research? Who is conducting the research? Knowledge can be key to landing that R&D position with a medical device company. A government website listing regulated clinical trials is a excellent resource to locate this information.
Step 4
Format your resume to highlight the skills needed. Try using an academically orientated resume instead of a traditional resume as this is often the version the researchers themselves use and are familiar with. Read the job posting and tailor your resume to suit the position requirements to make it easy for the HR department to see why you are right for the job.
Step 5
Make contact with the medical device companies and researchers. Sometimes this will be a private group, other times it will be an academic entity or a collaboration between the two. Work both sides of the study team if possible for securing an interview. Convey your enthusiasm for the medical device itself and the R&D the group is conducting---be specific so it is clear you have done your homework.
References
Biospace.com: Biotech and Pharmaceutical News & Jobs
Medical Device Organization
Listing of public and private clinical trials
FDA info about medical devices
