Pride in Profession: My MedComms Journey

Emily Turner, Lead Medical Writer, shares her MedComms journey in this personal insight. Reflecting on this year’s MedComms Day theme, “Pride in Profession,” she explores how her passion for science, drive to make a difference, and commitment to continuous learning have shaped her professional path.

My MedComms journey started just over 3 years ago, as a neuroscience graduate eager for opportunities to learn new things, and to make a meaningful contribution and difference to science and medicine. After completing Nucleus Global’s medical writing training program, I joined a team working on publications and medical affairs focused on a gene therapy for the treatment of a rare neuromuscular disorder. As a new member of the MedComms world, I did not yet anticipate the breadth of projects possible, and the depth of understanding and expertise that could be developed. Over the last few years, I have played a part in bringing a cutting-edge treatment to the people who need it most, and my role has allowed me to see firsthand the difference we make.

Life as a medical writer has provided invaluable opportunities to learn about the stages of drug development, and gain insight into health authority regulatory processes. It has been exciting to have been involved with the advancement of a life-changing treatment from preclinical studies, through to clinical trials, and subsequent regulatory approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and beyond. Throughout the drug development journey, clear communication of data to patients, healthcare professionals, and regulatory bodies is key; I enjoy the challenge of presenting data in an impactful and meaningful way, and adapting these communications for different audiences.

Patient partnership work has allowed me to gain insights directly from patients and families, and gain perspectives about what is most meaningful to them. Having the opportunity to work with the patient community puts into context the work we do, and gives us a chance to see the meaningful difference we can make. It has been insightful to understand how patient advocacy groups contribute to the drug development process, and collaborate with pharmaceutical companies and regulatory bodies, and to see how their opinions and guidance influence our work and focus.

MedComms is unique in that you learn something new almost every day. An aspect of my job that I love is how fast-paced, and at times unpredictable, it can be; no two days are the same. Flexibility is key as new data emerge, and priorities adapt. It is rewarding to see that clients welcome us as part of the team, and feel they can rely on us for urgent needs, valuing our expertise and ideas during important decisions. Creating meaningful relationships with clients has allowed me to get closer to the data, and I have enjoyed the opportunity to learn from their insights and opinions.

I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to travel and meet a range of incredible people who are contributing globally to cutting-edge science. It is exciting to work alongside, and interact with, people who have such profound impacts on science, medicine, and our everyday work. It is rewarding to see your work presented at meetings, and to view firsthand the reaction of the community, and the impact your writing has on people. In-person events have incredible atmospheres; being surrounded by extraordinary minds sparks creativity and innovation, and recharges both us and our clients to keep pursuing our goals.

Having a close-knit team makes a world of difference to my daily work. The support and collaboration of my colleagues has led our team to create meaningful and impactful work that would not be achievable as individuals. Those who work in MedComms are truly passionate about what we do, and our teams go above and beyond to achieve our goals. I am so grateful to have a team of wonderful people guiding me, who recognize individual contributions, and share and celebrate all successes.

MedComms is an extremely rewarding profession that allows me to apply my passion for science, while making a meaningful difference to the advancement of medicine and patient quality of life. I am excited to see what my future in MedComms brings!