Sheridan College to Host Urgent Lecture on Medical Science Liaison Careers April 29
Sheridan College announces a timely public lecture at 7 p.m. ET, Wednesday, April 29, featuring Jenny McDonald, Ph.D., director and medical science liaison at Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. This free event, open to all, will be held in Room 153 of the Edward A. Whitney Academic Center and simultaneously streamed online via Zoom at www.sheridan.edu/lecture.
The lecture, titled “From Bench to Industry: The Role of Medical Science Liaison,” delivers an immediate glimpse into one of healthcare’s fastest expanding roles. McDonald will unveil how medical science liaisons bridge cutting-edge research and clinical care through strategic communication—a critical function for translating scientific discoveries into patient treatments.
For North Carolina students, researchers, and industry professionals eyeing opportunities beyond traditional academia, this event is a rare chance to get frontline insights. McDonald will break down the evolving responsibilities and essential skills required to thrive in this competitive field. The talk also promises a candid look at industry challenges, often referred to as the “dark side” by insiders, informing community members about less visible facets of pharmaceutical work.
Urgent Perspectives from a Leading Expert in Cardiovascular and Oncology Fields
McDonald brings nearly a decade of expertise in cardiovascular and oncology domains, having supported major product launches, clinical developments, and educational programs. Currently, she focuses on clinical data related to prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumors, making her insights crucial for understanding the future of medical science liaison careers.
Her academic pedigree includes a bachelor’s degree in genetics with honors from University of Wisconsin-Madison, a doctorate specializing in translational cardiovascular research from Loyola University Chicago, and postdoctoral research at both University of California, Davis and Loyola, emphasizing cardiac tissue engineering.
Sheridan College Connects Students with Industry Leaders Amid Rapid Science Career Shifts
Scott Newbold, Sheridan’s Associate Professor of Biology, emphasized the lecture’s urgency given the rapid evolution of science careers.
“With careers in science rapidly evolving, this lecture offers valuable insight for students exploring opportunities beyond traditional academic paths,”
Newbold said. The NC Voice highlights this event as critical for students and professionals seeking real-world industry guidance now.
The March into industry roles like medical science liaison has intensified nationwide as pharmaceutical companies expand clinical liaison teams to ensure their scientific advances effectively reach healthcare providers and patients.
How to Attend and What to Expect
The lecture is open to anyone interested in medical science, pharmaceuticals, and career transitions from research to industry. In-person attendees must go to Sheridan College’s Edward A. Whitney Academic Center, Room 153 starting at 7 p.m. ET on April 29. Online viewers can join live via the Zoom link available at www.sheridan.edu/lecture.
This event stands as an immediate opportunity to grasp the medical science liaison role’s rising significance and prepare for careers that blend scientific rigor with strategic communication. Sheridan College’s effort to make such expertise accessible boosts regional awareness of emerging medical careers crucial to public health innovation.
Stay tuned to The NC Voice for live updates and follow-up coverage on career opportunities in health science across North Carolina and the United States.
