Principal Medical Writer

Principal Medical Writer

Slough Full-Time 48000 - 84000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the creation of engaging scientific content and mentor junior writers.
  • Company: Join a leading global healthcare communications agency making a difference in medical communications.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, generous holiday, and health support.
  • Why this job: Make an impact by translating complex science into meaningful communications in a collaborative culture.
  • Qualifications: 5+ years in Medical Writing with a strong scientific background; MSc or PhD preferred.
  • Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and long-term career progression.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.

Principal Medical Writer – Pharma Advertising

Overview

We’re looking for a Principal Medical Writer with strong pharma advertising agency experience to take a lead role across multiple accounts. As a senior member of the writing team, you’ll be responsible not only for delivering outstanding promotional content but also for shaping strategy, building client relationships, and supporting the growth of junior writers.

This role requires someone with 5+ years’ experience in promotional medical writing, confident in working independently and acting as the primary content lead on complex projects. You’ll combine scientific expertise with creative flair to produce work that’s both accurate and engaging, while ensuring brand consistency across all deliverables.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead writer across accounts – take full ownership of content delivery, from sales aids and digital platforms to websites, leavepieces, and objection handlers.
  • Strategic partner to clients – advise on content strategy, engage directly with clients and review teams, and confidently present work.
  • Cross-functional collaboration – work closely with account management, creative, and scientific teams to ensure content meets objectives and delivers impact.
  • Quality and consistency – set high editorial standards across projects, providing oversight and guidance to ensure messaging remains on-brand and compliant.
  • Mentorship and leadership – actively support and develop junior and midweight writers, providing feedback and helping to grow their skills.
  • Pitch and business development support – contribute to new business through research, therapy area insight, and presentation of ideas.

Skills & Experience

  • Degree in Healthcare or Biological Sciences (or related discipline).
  • 5+ years’ promotional medical writing experience in a pharma advertising agency setting.
  • Proven track record as lead writer on multiple accounts.
  • Strong client-facing communication skills, comfortable advising and presenting.
  • Excellent scientific understanding, with the ability to translate data into clear, engaging stories.
  • Fully trained in Veeva Vault Promomats.
  • Detail-oriented, organised, and adept at balancing multiple priorities.

Bonus Skills

  • Experience leading larger teams of writers.
  • Deep knowledge of US and EU pharma markets.
  • Demonstrated involvement in business development or pitching.

Principal Medical Writer employer: Meet Life Sciences

Join a leading global healthcare communications agency in London, where you will thrive in a collaborative and people-focused culture that prioritises employee growth and wellbeing. With a hybrid working model, competitive salary, and generous holiday allowance, this role offers the chance to lead impactful projects while mentoring junior colleagues and contributing to a dynamic team dedicated to excellence in medical communications.
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Contact Detail:

Meet Life Sciences Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Medical Writer

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the medical communications field. Attend industry conferences or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and clients. Building relationships can give you insights into the company culture and may even lead to referrals.

✨Tip Number 2

Stay updated on the latest trends and developments in medical writing and healthcare communications. Follow relevant journals, blogs, and social media accounts to ensure you can speak knowledgeably about current topics during interviews.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences in detail. Think of specific examples where you've mentored junior writers or led projects successfully. This will demonstrate your capability to fulfil the role's requirements effectively.

✨Tip Number 4

Familiarise yourself with the company's previous work and client accounts. Understanding their portfolio will help you tailor your discussions and show how your experience aligns with their needs during the interview process.

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Medical Writer

Medical Writing Expertise
Scientific Background in Life Sciences
Strategic Thinking
Client Relationship Management
Mentoring and Coaching Skills
Attention to Detail
Quality Control Knowledge
Project Management
Time Management
Interpersonal Communication Skills
Regulatory Knowledge
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Collaboration Skills
Adaptability to Industry Trends

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in medical writing, particularly any leadership roles or projects that demonstrate your ability to manage accounts and mentor junior writers. Use specific examples to showcase your skills.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for medical communications and detail how your background aligns with the role's requirements. Mention your experience in leading projects and your strategic approach to client engagement.

Showcase Your Scientific Expertise: Since the role requires a strong scientific background, be sure to include details about your educational qualifications and any relevant research or publications. This will help demonstrate your credibility in the field.

Highlight Leadership and Mentoring Experience: Emphasise your experience in mentoring and developing junior team members. Provide examples of how you've guided others in their work and contributed to their professional growth, as this is a key aspect of the role.

How to prepare for a job interview at Meet Life Sciences

✨Showcase Your Scientific Expertise

As a Principal Medical Writer, your scientific background is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications and how they relate to the role. Highlight any specific therapeutic areas you have experience in and be ready to provide examples of your work.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

This role requires mentoring junior writers and leading client accounts. Share experiences where you've successfully guided others or led projects. Emphasise your ability to manage teams and deliver high-quality content under pressure.

✨Prepare for Client Interaction Scenarios

Since you'll be acting as the primary contact for clients, practice how you would handle various client scenarios. Think about how you would provide strategic direction and address client concerns while maintaining a professional rapport.

✨Stay Updated on Industry Trends

Being knowledgeable about the latest developments in medical communications and regulatory guidelines is key. Research current trends and be ready to discuss how they might impact the role and the agency's work.

Principal Medical Writer
Meet Life Sciences
Location: Slough
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