No “D”…No Problem: Finding Success WITHOUT a Doctorate

In this episode, Greg Auclair from Cytokinetics shares his journey into medical affairs and insights into the MSL role. He discusses his transition, the evolving career paths for MSLs, and the importance of personal branding and networking. Greg offers valuable advice for aspiring MSLs, emphasizing persistence and the creation of a personal development plan. He also highlights non-doctorate paths into the field and addresses changing hiring trends. The episode concludes with Greg reflecting on his career highlights and expressing gratitude, followed by a call to action for listeners to subscribe and provide feedback.

This episode is sponsored by MSL Mastery, helping Medical Science Liaisons and aspiring MSLs to excel in their careers and lives through courses, coaching, and community. For more details, please visit MSLmastery.com.

The MSL Talk Podcast is available on all podcast platforms and the MSL Talk YouTube Channel.

MSL Talk is a podcast that features helpful information for current Medical Science Liaisons, Medical Affairs leaders, job seekers looking to break into the pharmaceutical industry in their first MSL role as well as anyone interested in hearing good industry conversations and medical affairs discussions.

(0:00) Welcome and introduction to MSL Talk with guest Greg Auclair
(2:06) Greg Auclair's transition into medical affairs and early career insights
(6:27) Career progression, overcoming challenges, and roles in various companies
(13:32) The role and value of contract MSL positions
(17:03) Strategies for networking, personal branding, and breaking into medical affairs
(22:13) Hiring trends and establishing credibility as an MSL without a doctorate
(25:32) MSL certification programs and their impact
(28:14) Leveraging prior experiences for MSL roles
(31:31) Navigating career progression with patience and persistence
(33:16) Final thoughts and the importance of individual development plans
(33:57) Encouragement to share and subscribe, thanks, and future episode teaser