e drug-making process, I intend to explore not just my role but go into detail about other roles that I have researched in order to present a full synopsis of the industry. I hope that you enjoy reading about the different careers available as much as I enjoyed the research process to gather this information.
             If you ask anyone who works in the pharmaceutical industry what is their main motivation, it's more than likely you'll hear the same answer. Our people are in it to make people's lives better. Not many jobs offer you more of a chance to do this.
             Did you know, for example, that five of the top twenty-five best selling medicines in the world were discovered and developed in the United States? And twelve of the most prescribed drugs are produced in the United States as well. The fact is, one fifth of the American population has a chronic or long-term illness, and in people over 75 this ratio rises to more than half. So, although we're certainly achieving great things, there's still a lot of work to be done.
             Which is why it's all such a team effort, combining so many individual talents. Doctors need to be aware of new developments, thus open, accurate information and marketing is very important. Across the whole process, efficiency is also crucial if we're to keep medicines affordable to everyone who needs them - the fact that the cost of modern medicines is, in real terms, 15% less than it was ten years ago this shows our success here. And, naturally, speed is of the essence if we're to deliver new treatments to patients who urgently need them.
             That's why new innovations in technology (IT is hugely important in scientific research), engineering, finance and people management are absolutely key. So if you've got ideas of your own, in the pharmaceutical industry they're sure to find an attentive ear.
             Although many of the rewards of being part of this industry come from improving other people's health and quality of life, the...