What you include in your CV will differ depending the position you are applying for. As a pharmacologist, there are extra things to consider. These include:
- Listing any memberships that you hold at relevant membership bodies and learned Societies.
- Explaining the details of each research experience
- Listing the laboratory skills you have learned so far. For example, mammalian cell culture, Western immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry or flow cytometry. This is useful when applying to a post requiring technical skill
- Listing any publications, separating into abstracts, full papers. Make sure the referencing style is correct, consistent and clear
- Listing any funding that you have received for research awards, placements, scholarships or internships
- Listing any relevant training or workshops/conferences that you have attended. These might not directly relate to the post but do show your rounding
- Listing any lecturing, supervising, support of developing a curriculum or demonstrations. Include any public engagement or outreach activities.
Use your university services
If you are preparing your CV whilst at university, make use of the careers service. Most offer drop-in sessions or library workshops with one-to-one guidance. Ask study advisors, teaching staff and course coordinators for advice. They will be able to offer more tailored advice.
Simple and uncluttered format
Keep the format simple and appealing. Make sure sections are clearly separated and neatly presented. Use simple fonts.
Promotion
Promote all your achievements, experiences and interpersonal skills. Employers are looking for rounded individuals. Aim to make yourself unique by stressing skills or experience others are less likely to have. This makes you more competitive and memorable.
Clear and concise
Write clearly and simply and remove terminology and over-complicated language.
Tailor to individual posts
Highlight and emphasise strengths relevant to the individual position. Choose the appropriate CV structure for the job role. Research the organisation’s values and objectives and show how you share these. This is also a good way to check that you would enjoy working there.
Follow the guidelines
Always proofread your application to ensure you are obeying the guidelines. Ask someone else to proof read and sense-check your adherence to guidelines.
Keep up to date
Aim to update and review your CV every month even when not applying for new posts.