Medical Writer Resume Examples & Templates
6 free customizable and printable Medical Writer samples and templates for 2026. Unlock unlimited access to our AI resume builder for just $9/month and elevate your job applications effortlessly. Generating your first resume is free.
Medical Writer Resume Examples and Templates
Junior Medical Writer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong introductory statement
The introduction clearly outlines your experience and passion for medical writing. It mentions your 2+ years of experience and your ability to simplify complex data, which aligns well with the needs of a Medical Writer.
Quantifiable achievements in work experience
Your experience at Takeda Pharmaceuticals highlights specific accomplishments, like drafting over 20 clinical study reports and contributing to 5 successful publications. This use of numbers demonstrates your impact, which is important for a Medical Writer.
Relevant skills listed
The skills section includes essential abilities like Medical Writing and Regulatory Submissions. These are key for a Medical Writer role, ensuring you meet the expectations of potential employers.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lacks specific keywords
While your skills are relevant, you might want to include specific keywords like 'clinical trial' or 'medical communications.' This can improve your match with ATS and show you're in tune with industry terminology.
Limited details on internship experience
Your internship experience at MediTech Solutions could use more detail. Adding specific projects or outcomes would better showcase your growth and readiness for a full-time Medical Writer role.
Absence of a professional summary
A professional summary at the top could tie together your experiences and skills more effectively. This brief overview should highlight your unique value, making it clear why you're a great fit for a Medical Writer position.
Medical Writer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong experience in regulatory submissions
The resume highlights the candidate's experience in authoring over 50 clinical study reports and regulatory submissions at Pfizer, which showcases a direct relevance to the Medical Writer role. This experience demonstrates their capability to navigate complex regulatory processes effectively.
Quantifiable achievements
The candidate effectively uses quantifiable results, such as reducing revisions by 30% at Johnson & Johnson. This illustrates their impact on the writing process, showing potential employers that they can improve efficiency in producing high-quality documents.
Relevant educational background
The M.S. in Biomedical Writing from Drexel University aligns perfectly with the Medical Writer role. The focus on regulatory writing and medical communication strategies further strengthens the candidate's qualifications for this position.
Diverse skill set
The skills section includes relevant competencies like Clinical Writing and Regulatory Submissions. This alignment with the Medical Writer role ensures that the resume speaks the right language for potential employers and ATS systems.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lacks a clear summary statement
The introduction could be more concise and targeted specifically toward the Medical Writer role. Simplifying the language and directly stating how the candidate can add value to potential employers would enhance its impact.
Limited use of industry keywords
The resume could benefit from incorporating more industry-specific keywords related to Medical Writing. Including terms like 'protocol development' or 'clinical documentation' can improve ATS compatibility and catch the attention of recruiters.
Work experience descriptions could be more concise
While the work experience is detailed, some bullet points could be streamlined to enhance readability. Shortening descriptions while maintaining key achievements will help to keep the reader's attention focused.
No clear contact information formatting
The contact details are somewhat cluttered. Formatting them in a more organized manner would improve readability and ensure hiring managers can easily find crucial information like the candidate's email and phone number.
Senior Medical Writer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong work experience section
The resume highlights relevant roles with detailed descriptions of responsibilities and achievements. For instance, authoring over 50 clinical study reports showcases the candidate's expertise, essential for a Medical Writer.
Clear educational background
The education section is well-defined, featuring a Master's in Pharmacology and a Bachelor's in Biology. These degrees align well with the Medical Writer role, indicating a strong foundation in the necessary scientific knowledge.
Effective use of quantifiable results
Including specifics like a 30% improvement in retrieval time from the document management system adds credibility and impact to past experiences. This quantification is compelling for hiring managers in the Medical Writing field.
Relevant skills listed
The skills section includes key competencies like Clinical Writing and Regulatory Submissions. This alignment with the Medical Writer role's requirements enhances the chances of passing ATS screenings.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Vague introductory statement
The introduction could be more tailored to the Medical Writer role. A clearer focus on specific skills or achievements relevant to the job would strengthen the initial impression.
Lacks industry-specific keywords
While the skills are relevant, incorporating more targeted keywords from job descriptions, like 'clinical trial writing' or 'regulatory compliance,' could enhance ATS compatibility and visibility to recruiters.
Limited action verbs
The descriptions use some effective action verbs but could benefit from more variety. Using words like 'Spearheaded' or 'Optimized' would further convey initiative and leadership in previous roles.
No clear summary of accomplishments
A section summarizing key accomplishments or notable projects would help highlight the candidate's impact in previous roles. This could engage hiring managers better and provide a quick overview of their qualifications.
Principal Medical Writer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong leadership experience
The candidate's role as a Principal Medical Writer involved leading a team of 8 writers. This demonstrates strong leadership skills, essential for a Medical Writer who may need to guide and mentor others in the field.
Quantifiable achievements
The resume showcases impactful results, like successfully submitting over 15 IND applications, leading to expedited approvals. This quantification highlights the candidate's effectiveness in regulatory submissions, crucial for the Medical Writer role.
Relevant skills listed
The skills section includes critical areas like Clinical Writing and Regulatory Submissions, aligning well with the Medical Writer position. This targeted skill set helps in passing ATS filters and grabs the attention of hiring managers.
Clear and relevant education
The educational background in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biology provides a solid foundation for a Medical Writer. It shows the candidate's expertise in relevant fields, making them a strong fit for the role.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Generic summary statement
The introduction could be more tailored to emphasize unique contributions or specialized experience relevant to the Medical Writer role. Personalizing it will better convey the candidate's value to potential employers.
Limited use of industry keywords
The resume could benefit from incorporating more industry-specific keywords that are commonly found in job postings for Medical Writers, such as 'clinical protocols' or 'data analysis.' This will improve ATS compatibility.
Lacks specific project examples
The experiences section could include specific projects or types of documents created. This detail adds depth and context, making the candidate's experiences more relatable to hiring managers.
No mention of continuing education
Adding any relevant certifications or training related to medical writing or regulatory affairs could enhance the resume. It shows a commitment to staying updated in the field, which is valuable for a Medical Writer.
Medical Writing Manager Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong leadership experience
The resume highlights experience managing a team of 8 medical writers, showcasing leadership and project management skills. This is vital for a Medical Writer role, as it emphasizes the ability to guide teams and deliver complex projects effectively.
Quantifiable achievements
The candidate lists specific accomplishments, such as improving document turnaround time by 30%. This use of quantifiable results effectively demonstrates the impact of their work, which is crucial for a Medical Writer.
Relevant educational background
With an M.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Sciences and a B.Sc. in Biology, the educational qualifications strongly align with the requirements for a Medical Writer. This background supports their expertise in drug development and scientific communication.
Diverse work experience
The resume covers various roles in reputable companies, showcasing a broad range of skills in medical writing and regulatory submissions. This variety highlights adaptability and depth of experience, which are important in the Medical Writer field.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Vague skills section
The skills listed are somewhat generic and could be more tailored to match specific job descriptions for Medical Writers. Adding industry-specific keywords like 'clinical trial documentation' would improve ATS compatibility and relevance.
Lacks a tailored summary
The summary could be more focused on the specific requirements of the Medical Writer position. Tailoring it to highlight key skills and experiences related to the job description would strengthen the overall presentation.
Limited detail in early roles
While the later roles have strong details, the earlier position as a Medical Writer at Novartis could benefit from more quantifiable achievements or specific contributions. This would provide a fuller picture of the candidate's growth and capabilities.
Formatting inconsistency
The resume uses bullet points for some experience descriptions but could benefit from a consistent format throughout. This helps with readability and presents a more polished look, which is important for a professional document.
Director of Medical Writing Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong leadership experience
As a Director of Medical Writing, you led a team of 15 writers, showcasing your ability to manage large projects. This experience is vital for a Medical Writer role, as it demonstrates your skills in team coordination and project management.
Quantifiable achievements
You effectively highlight achievements like increasing the submission success rate by 25%. This use of quantifiable results illustrates your impact and effectiveness, which is crucial for employers in the medical writing field.
Relevant technical skills
Your skills section includes essential terms like 'Regulatory Submissions' and 'GCP Compliance.' These keywords align well with what hiring managers typically look for in a Medical Writer, enhancing your chances with ATS.
Well-structured work experience
The experience section is clear and organized, detailing significant contributions in each role. This structure makes it easy for potential employers to see your relevant background at a glance.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Generic summary statement
Your intro is a bit standard. Consider adding more specifics about your unique strengths or what sets you apart in medical writing. Tailoring it to the Medical Writer role can enhance its impact.
Limited soft skills mention
While you list important technical skills, your resume could benefit from more emphasis on soft skills like communication and collaboration. These are key in medical writing and can make your profile more appealing.
No mention of specific software tools
Your resume doesn't mention specific writing or project management tools used in medical writing. Including tools like EndNote or MS Word can demonstrate your familiarity with industry standards.
Lack of tailored keywords in skills
While your skills are relevant, adding more specific keywords related to medical writing, like 'Clinical Study Reports' or 'Regulatory Affairs,' could help improve ATS compatibility and showcase your expertise.
1. How to write a Medical Writer resume
Entering the field of medical writing can be quite daunting, especially with so many applicants vying for the same position. How can you create a resume that truly stands out? Hiring managers want clear evidence of your writing skills and how you've applied them in real-world scenarios. Unfortunately, many candidates often focus too heavily on listing qualifications without showcasing their actual contributions.
This guide will help you craft a resume that effectively highlights your unique qualifications and experiences. For instance, instead of saying "Wrote clinical documents," you’ll learn to articulate achievements like "Authored clinical study reports that improved regulatory submission timelines by 30%." We'll focus on essential sections, including your summary and work experience. By the end, you'll have a polished resume that reflects your capabilities as a medical writer.
Use the right format for a Medical Writer resume
When crafting a resume for a Medical Writer position, it's crucial to choose the right format. The chronological format is often best for those with solid work history in related fields, as it highlights career progression. For those changing careers or with gaps in employment, a functional or combination format can help emphasize relevant skills and experiences. Regardless of the format, ensure your resume is ATS-friendly by keeping sections clear and avoiding complex layouts, which can confuse applicant tracking systems.
Here are some recommended formats:
- Chronological: Best for steady career progression.
- Functional: Ideal for career changers or those with gaps.
- Combination: Merges both formats, showcasing skills and experience.
Craft an impactful Medical Writer resume summary
The resume summary is your chance to grab the hiring manager's attention quickly. For experienced Medical Writers, a summary works best, while entry-level candidates or those changing careers might benefit more from an objective statement. A strong summary formula is: '[Years of experience] + [Specialization] + [Key skills] + [Top achievement]'. This formula allows you to succinctly showcase your qualifications.
For example, a Medical Writer might highlight their expertise in clinical documentation, research, and regulatory writing to stand out. Make sure to tailor your summary to align with the job description for the role you're pursuing, integrating relevant keywords for ATS optimization.
Good resume summary example
Experienced Medical Writer with 7 years in clinical documentation and regulatory writing. Skilled in developing high-quality content for medical publications and submissions. Successfully authored over 15 peer-reviewed articles and contributed to multiple IND submissions.
Why this works: This summary includes relevant experience, specialization, and achievements that demonstrate value to potential employers.
Bad resume summary example
Medical Writer with some experience in writing. Looking for a position where I can use my skills to help a company succeed.
Why this fails: This summary lacks specificity and measurable achievements, making it less compelling to hiring managers.
Highlight your Medical Writer work experience
When detailing your work experience, list jobs in reverse chronological order. Each entry should include your Job Title, Company, and Dates of Employment. Use bullet points to highlight your responsibilities and achievements, starting each with strong action verbs. Focus on quantifying your impact where possible, such as by stating 'Improved documentation turnaround time by 30%' instead of just 'Responsible for documentation'. Consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your accomplishments effectively.
Using metrics in your achievements helps clarify the scope of your contributions and makes your resume more compelling.
Good work experience example
- Developed and authored comprehensive clinical study reports for Mills and Sons, resulting in a 25% reduction in review time and improved compliance with FDA regulations.
Why this works: This bullet point uses a strong action verb, quantifies the impact, and highlights a specific achievement relevant to the Medical Writer role.
Bad work experience example
- Worked on medical writing projects for Bauch LLC.
Why this fails: This statement is vague and lacks measurable accomplishments, making it less impactful.
Present relevant education for a Medical Writer
In the education section, include details like School Name, Degree, and Graduation Year. Recent graduates should highlight their education more prominently, including GPA and relevant coursework or honors if applicable. For experienced professionals, education can be less prominent, often omitting GPA. If you have relevant certifications (like a Medical Writing certification), consider adding them in this section or in a dedicated one.
Good education example
Bachelor of Science in Biology, University of Lueilwitz, 2016
Why this works: This entry is clear and straightforward, providing essential details without unnecessary information.
Bad education example
Graduated from a college with a degree in something related to health.
Why this fails: This entry lacks specificity and clarity, which may confuse potential employers about your qualifications.
Add essential skills for a Medical Writer resume
Technical skills for a Medical Writer resume
Soft skills for a Medical Writer resume
Include these powerful action words on your Medical Writer resume
Use these impactful action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities:
Add additional resume sections for a Medical Writer
Consider adding sections for Projects, Certifications, or Languages relevant to the Medical Writer role. These sections can showcase unique skills or accomplishments that set you apart. For instance, if you've worked on notable projects or have certifications that enhance your qualifications, include them to strengthen your application.
Good example
Project: Developed a comprehensive medical writing guide for Lueilwitz Inc., enhancing documentation standards across the organization and reducing errors by 40%.
Why this works: This entry highlights a significant project with measurable results, demonstrating initiative and impact.
Bad example
Completed a course on writing.
Why this fails: This entry lacks detail and significance, making it less relevant to the Medical Writer role.
2. ATS-optimized resume examples for a Medical Writer
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are tools that help employers manage the hiring process. They scan resumes for specific keywords and can automatically reject those that don’t fit the criteria. For a Medical Writer, optimizing your resume for ATS is crucial, as it ensures your application gets through initial screenings and reaches the hiring manager.
To optimize your resume, use standard section titles like 'Work Experience', 'Education', and 'Skills'. Make sure to incorporate relevant keywords from job descriptions, such as 'clinical research', 'regulatory documents', 'scientific writing', and 'medical terminology'. Avoid complex formatting like tables or columns that ATS may struggle to read. Stick to standard fonts and save your file in .docx or PDF format, steering clear of heavily designed documents.
Common mistakes include using synonyms instead of exact keywords found in the job description. Relying on headers or footers can lead to sections being ignored by the ATS. Also, omitting critical keywords related to skills, tools, or certifications relevant to Medical Writing can hurt your chances significantly.
ATS-compatible example
Skills: Clinical research, regulatory submissions, scientific writing, medical terminology, protocol development.
This works because it uses relevant keywords directly from typical job descriptions for Medical Writers. Including these keywords enhances visibility in ATS, making it more likely your resume will be seen by a human.
ATS-incompatible example
Expertise: Writing and editing documents related to health.
This fails because it uses vague language and avoids specific keywords that ATS might be looking for, like 'clinical research' or 'regulatory documents'. Without these terms, your resume may not match job requirements effectively.
3. How to format and design a Medical Writer resume
When crafting a resume for a Medical Writer position, opt for a clean and professional template. A reverse-chronological layout is often the best choice, as it highlights your most recent experience first, making it easy for hiring managers to follow your career progression. This layout is also more compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), ensuring your resume gets seen.
Keep your resume to one page if you're an entry-level or mid-career professional. If you have extensive experience, feel free to extend it to two pages, but make sure every word counts. Conciseness is key, so highlight only relevant information that showcases your writing skills and medical knowledge.
Choose professional fonts like Calibri or Arial, with sizes between 10-12pt for body text and 14-16pt for headers. Ensure there's plenty of white space and consistent spacing throughout to enhance readability. Avoid overly creative designs; they can confuse ATS and detract from your content.
Common mistakes include using complex templates with columns that ATS might misread, overusing colors, or selecting non-standard fonts. Ensure your section headings are clear and standard to guide the reader easily through your resume.
Well formatted example
Elisha Effertz
Medical Writer
Contact: elisha.effertz@email.com
Experience:
- Medical Writer at Harris (2021-Present): Developed clinical study reports and contributed to regulatory submissions.
- Junior Medical Writer at Jenkins (2019-2021): Assisted in drafting manuscripts and preparing presentations.
This format works well because it’s straightforward and highlights relevant experience clearly. It keeps the focus on the candidate's qualifications while ensuring it's easy for both hiring managers and ATS to read.
Poorly formatted example
Britt Wisoky
Medical Writer
Contact: britt.wisoky@email.com
Experience:
- Freelance Medical Writer
- Research Associate
- Editor for Health Journals
- Clinical Trial Documentation
This design fails because the use of columns might confuse ATS, leading to misreading of the candidate's experience. Additionally, the layout lacks sufficient white space, making it look cluttered and harder to read.
4. Cover letter for a Medical Writer
Writing a tailored cover letter is essential for a Medical Writer position. It complements your resume and shows your genuine interest in the role. A well-crafted letter allows you to present your specific skills and experiences that align with what the employer is looking for.
Start with the header, including your contact information, the hiring manager's details if known, and the date. In your opening paragraph, clearly state the Medical Writer position you're applying for. Express your enthusiasm for the company and briefly mention a standout qualification or where you found the job listing.
The body of your letter should connect your experience to the job requirements. Highlight key projects you’ve worked on, specific technical skills like regulatory writing or clinical trial documentation, and any relevant soft skills like attention to detail and communication. Use keywords from the job description to tailor your content. In your closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the role, express confidence in your contributions, and include a call to action, like requesting an interview. Thank the reader for their time.
- Maintain a professional and enthusiastic tone.
- Customize your letter for each application.
- Avoid using generic templates.
Sample a Medical Writer cover letter
Dear Hiring Team,
I am excited to apply for the Medical Writer position at Pfizer, as advertised on your careers page. With over five years of experience in medical writing, I have developed a strong ability to communicate complex medical information clearly and concisely. I learned about this opportunity through LinkedIn, and I am eager to contribute to Pfizer's mission of advancing healthcare.
In my previous role at Johnson & Johnson, I successfully authored and edited over 50 clinical study reports and regulatory submissions. My work helped secure approval for multiple drug trials, showcasing my attention to detail and ability to meet tight deadlines. I am proficient in using various writing tools, including Microsoft Word and EndNote, and I have a strong understanding of medical terminology and regulatory guidelines.
I am particularly drawn to Pfizer because of its commitment to innovation and patient-centered solutions. I am confident that my background in medical writing and my collaborative spirit will allow me to contribute positively to your team. I would love the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with Pfizer's needs further.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
5. Mistakes to avoid when writing a Medical Writer resume
Creating a resume for a Medical Writer position requires careful attention to detail. You want to make sure your skills and experiences shine through while avoiding common mistakes that could overshadow your qualifications.
Being clear and specific in your resume can help you stand out in a competitive field. Let's explore some common pitfalls to avoid.
Avoid vague descriptions of your work
Mistake Example: "Assisted in various writing tasks for clinical trials."
Correction: Be specific about your contributions. Instead, write: "Authored and edited clinical study reports for Phase III clinical trials, ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines."
Use generic applications
Mistake Example: "I am a medical writer looking for opportunities in healthcare."
Correction: Tailor your resume for each job. Instead, say: "As a Medical Writer with experience in oncology and neurology, I seek to leverage my expertise at [Company Name]."
Neglecting proofreading
Mistake Example: "Developed medical documents that where clear and concise."
Correction: Always proofread for typos and grammatical errors. Instead, write: "Developed medical documents that were clear and concise."
Overstating qualifications
Mistake Example: "I have extensive experience in all aspects of medical writing."
Correction: Be honest and specific about your experience. Instead, write: "Over three years of experience in writing regulatory documents and clinical protocols."
Poor formatting for ATS
Mistake Example: Using complex tables and images in your resume.
Correction: Use a simple layout with standard fonts. Instead, create a clean, text-based format that is easy for ATS systems to read.
6. FAQs about Medical Writer resumes
Creating a resume as a Medical Writer requires a focus on your scientific expertise and writing skills. You need to showcase your ability to communicate complex medical information clearly and accurately. Here are some frequently asked questions and tips to help you craft an effective resume.
What skills should I highlight on my Medical Writer resume?
What skills should I highlight on my Medical Writer resume?
Emphasize skills like:
- Scientific writing
- Research and analysis
- Attention to detail
- Understanding of regulatory guidelines
- Ability to work with cross-functional teams
What is the best resume format for a Medical Writer?
What is the best resume format for a Medical Writer?
A chronological format works well. Start with your most recent experience and highlight relevant roles. Include sections for education, skills, and certifications to showcase your qualifications effectively.
How long should my Medical Writer resume be?
How long should my Medical Writer resume be?
Keep it to one page if you have less than 10 years of experience. For more extensive backgrounds, two pages can be acceptable. Just make sure every detail adds value.
How can I showcase my writing projects in my resume?
How can I showcase my writing projects in my resume?
Create a specific section for writing samples or projects. Include links to published articles or documents you've contributed to, ensuring they demonstrate your ability to convey complex information clearly.
What should I do if I have gaps in my employment history?
What should I do if I have gaps in my employment history?
Address gaps honestly. You can mention freelance projects, volunteer work, or relevant courses taken during that time. Focus on the skills and experiences you gained.
Pro Tips
Quantify Your Achievements
Whenever possible, use numbers to showcase your impact. For example, mention the number of documents you produced or the types of projects you managed. This helps employers see your value at a glance.
Tailor Your Resume for Each Application
Customize your resume to match the job description. Highlight specific experiences and skills that align with what the employer is seeking. This shows your genuine interest in the position.
Include Relevant Certifications
If you have certifications in medical writing, regulatory affairs, or related fields, list them prominently. This demonstrates your commitment to the profession and enhances your credibility.
7. Key takeaways for an outstanding Medical Writer resume
Creating a strong resume for a Medical Writer position is key to showcasing your expertise. Here are some essential tips:
- Use a clean, professional format that’s easy for hiring managers and ATS to read.
- Highlight your relevant skills and experience, focusing on medical writing projects and your familiarity with clinical terminology.
- Use strong action verbs and quantify your achievements, like the number of documents produced or successful projects completed.
- Incorporate job-relevant keywords naturally to optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems.
Remember, your resume is your first chance to make an impression, so take the time to tailor it well. Consider using resume building tools to help you get started!
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