Science & pharmaceuticals Jobs in Canada

Why Work in the Science & Pharmaceuticals in Canada

1. Strong Industry Growth

Canada's science and pharmaceutical sectors are expanding rapidly, driven by innovation, government support, and increased demand for healthcare solutions.

2. Government Support & Funding

The Canadian government provides significant funding and tax incentives for research and development, making it an attractive environment for scientists and pharmaceutical professionals.

3. Global Research Hubs

Cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver are home to world-class research institutions, biotech companies, and pharmaceutical giants, creating numerous career opportunities.

4. High Quality of Life

Working in Canada offers access to universal healthcare, a clean environment, strong labor rights, and a high standard of living.

5. Multicultural & Inclusive Workplaces

Canada is known for its diversity and inclusive policies, creating welcoming environments for international professionals in science and pharma.

6. Pathways to Permanent Residency

Skilled professionals in science and pharmaceuticals are often eligible for expedited immigration programs, offering a clear path to permanent residency.

7. Competitive Salaries

Professionals in this sector enjoy attractive compensation packages, along with benefits such as pensions, healthcare, and research grants.

8. Opportunities for Innovation

Canada supports innovation through partnerships between academia, government, and industry, offering professionals the chance to work on cutting-edge projects.

Creative Science & Pharmaceuticals in Canada for International Candidates

1. A Land of Discovery and Innovation

Canada isn’t just known for its breathtaking landscapes — it’s a frontier of scientific discovery and pharmaceutical innovation. From life-saving biotech research to vaccine development, Canada offers international professionals a chance to shape the future of global health.

2. Welcoming Global Talent

International candidates are more than welcome — they are needed. Canadian science and pharma industries actively recruit skilled talent from around the world, recognizing that diversity fuels innovation.

3. Cutting-Edge Research Ecosystem

Join globally recognized institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill, and UBC, or collaborate with world-class companies like Sanofi, GSK, and Pfizer Canada. Whether it’s neuroscience, oncology, or AI-powered drug development — Canada is where ideas become breakthroughs.

4. Fast-Track Immigration Pathways

Programs like the Global Talent Stream and Express Entry prioritize highly skilled professionals in STEM fields. This means you could be working in a top Canadian lab — and on your way to permanent residency — faster than you think.

5. Thriving BioTech & HealthTech Hubs

Explore vibrant tech and research ecosystems in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Ottawa. These cities blend world-class infrastructure with a collaborative spirit where startups, academia, and industry push science forward together.

6. Funding & Grants for Research

The Canadian government invests billions annually in R&D. International scientists and pharmaceutical experts have access to public grants, innovation funds, and academic partnerships to bring their research to life.

7. Work-Life Balance with Purpose

Enjoy a fulfilling career while living in one of the safest, most livable countries in the world. Flexible work environments, paid leave, and universal healthcare ensure you don’t have to choose between ambition and well-being.

8. A Launchpad for Global Impact

Canada’s science and pharmaceutical professionals contribute to solutions with worldwide reach — from pandemic response to climate-related health innovations. Your work here matters, globally.

Types of Science & Pharmaceuticals Jobs in Canada

1. Research Scientists

These professionals conduct experiments and analyze results in fields like biotechnology, pharmacology, microbiology, and chemistry. Often employed by universities, government labs, and private companies.

2. Clinical Research Associates (CRA)

CRAs manage and monitor clinical trials to ensure regulatory compliance and scientific accuracy. They work for pharmaceutical firms, contract research organizations (CROs), and health institutions.

3. Regulatory Affairs Specialists

These experts help companies navigate Canadian and international regulations for drug development, approval, and labeling. They ensure all pharmaceutical products meet legal and safety standards.

4. Quality Control & Quality Assurance Analysts

QC/QA professionals are responsible for ensuring drugs and medical products meet strict quality and safety standards throughout manufacturing and distribution processes.

5. Biotechnologists

Biotechnologists apply cellular and molecular biology to develop new medical treatments, diagnostics, and drug delivery systems. They're in high demand across biotech startups and pharmaceutical giants.

6. Pharmacovigilance Officers

These professionals monitor and report on the safety and side effects of drugs after they’ve reached the market, ensuring continued compliance and patient safety.

7. Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives

They act as the bridge between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers, promoting medications and explaining their benefits to doctors, clinics, and hospitals.

8. Medical Science Liaisons (MSL)

MSLs are field-based professionals who provide scientific expertise and support for new and existing therapies. They work closely with researchers and healthcare professionals.

9. Bioinformatics Specialists

Combining biology, computer science, and statistics, these specialists analyze complex biological data — essential for drug discovery and genomics research.

10. Lab Technicians & Technologists

They perform laboratory tests and operate sophisticated instruments to support research and development processes in universities, hospitals, and private labs.

11. Manufacturing & Process Engineers

These professionals oversee the design, operation, and improvement of pharmaceutical manufacturing systems, ensuring efficiency, safety, and scalability.

12. Toxicologists

Toxicologists assess the safety and potential harmful effects of drugs and chemicals. They work in both preclinical research and regulatory roles.

Average Salary of Top 20 Job Profile of Science & Pharmaceuticals in Canada

Job Title	CAD/year	USD/year	INR/year
Research Scientist	85,000	62,050	₹51,85,000
Clinical Research Associate (CRA)	75,000	54,750	₹45,75,000
Regulatory Affairs Specialist	82,000	59,860	₹50,02,000
Quality Assurance Analyst	70,000	51,100	₹42,70,000
Quality Control Analyst	68,000	49,640	₹41,48,000
Biotechnologist	78,000	56,940	₹47,58,000
Pharmacovigilance Officer	76,000	55,480	₹46,36,000
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative	90,000	65,700	₹54,90,000
Medical Science Liaison (MSL)	105,000	76,650	₹64,05,000
Bioinformatics Specialist	95,000	69,350	₹57,95,000
Lab Technologist	60,000	43,800	₹36,60,000
Manufacturing Process Engineer	88,000	64,240	₹53,68,000
Toxicologist	80,000	58,400	₹48,80,000
Biomedical Scientist	78,000	56,940	₹47,58,000
Pharmaceutical Project Manager	100,000	73,000	₹61,00,000
R&D Manager	110,000	80,300	₹67,10,000
Geneticist	85,000	62,050	₹51,85,000
Epidemiologist	92,000	67,160	₹56,12,000
Clinical Data Manager	87,000	63,510	₹53,07,000
Medical Laboratory Technologist	65,000	47,450	₹39,65,000

Job Eligibility to Work in Science & Pharmaceuticals in Canada for International Job Applicants.

Eligibility Criteria	Details
Educational Qualifications	Minimum Bachelor's degree in Science, Pharmacy, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or related field.
Advanced Degrees (Preferred)	Master’s or Ph.D. often required for research roles, clinical studies, or academic positions.
Work Experience	1–5 years of relevant experience for most mid-level roles. Research and regulatory jobs may need more.
Professional Licensing	Required for roles like pharmacists and lab technologists (e.g., PEBC, CSMLScertification).
Language Proficiency	Proficiency in English or French. IELTS/TOEFL scores often required for immigration or licensure.
Work Permit or PR	Must obtain a valid work permit, Express Entry, or PR through skilled immigration programs.
Credential Assessment	Degrees earned abroad may need to be evaluated (e.g., WES Canada) for immigration or licensing.
Job Offer (Optional)	Not mandatory but beneficial. Some immigration streams (e.g., Global Talent Stream) require it.
Regulatory Knowledge	Understanding of Canadian health and safety regulations (e.g., Health Canada, ICH-GCP) is a plus.
Background Checks	Clean criminal record and medical checks are often part of immigration and hiring processes.
Networking & Canadian References	Helpful in securing jobs; Canadian experience or internship is often valued by employers.

General Roles and Responsibilities in Science & Pharmaceuticals Jobs in Canada with 20 Job Profiles

Job Title	General Roles & Responsibilities
1. Research Scientist	Design and conduct experiments, analyze data, publish findings, and contribute to product or drug development.
2. Clinical Research Associate	Monitor clinical trials, ensure regulatory compliance, and manage study documentation and protocols.
3. Regulatory Affairs Specialist	Prepare regulatory submissions, liaise with Health Canada, and ensure compliance with drug laws and policies.
4. Quality Assurance Analyst	Develop and implement QA protocols, perform audits, and ensure manufacturing processes meet standards.
5. Quality Control Analyst	Test raw materials and final products, maintain lab records, and ensure pharmaceutical quality standards.
6. Biotechnologist	Use biological systems and organisms for drug development, diagnostics, and therapeutic research.
7. Pharmacovigilance Officer	Monitor and report adverse drug reactions (ADRs), ensure safety compliance, and update product safety databases.
8. Pharmaceutical Sales Rep	Promote and sell medications to healthcare professionals, provide product info, and meet sales targets.
9. Medical Science Liaison (MSL)	Provide scientific expertise to physicians, support clinical trials, and communicate research findings.
10. Bioinformatics Specialist	Analyze biological and genomic data using computational tools, support drug discovery and personalized medicine.
11. Lab Technologist	Conduct tests, operate lab equipment, and assist in scientific research and sample analysis.
12. Process Engineer	Design, optimize, and monitor pharmaceutical manufacturing processes for efficiency and compliance.
13. Toxicologist	Assess the safety and effects of chemicals and drugs on humans, perform risk assessments, and support R&D.
14. Biomedical Scientist	Investigate human diseases, develop diagnostics, and collaborate with clinicians and researchers.
15. Project Manager (Pharma)	Plan and manage drug development projects, coordinate teams, control budgets, and ensure project timelines.
16. R&D Manager	Lead research teams, oversee experimental design, manage innovation pipeline, and report to senior leadership.
17. Geneticist	Study genes and heredity, conduct DNA analysis, and contribute to personalized medicine and research.
18. Epidemiologist	Analyze disease patterns, conduct public health research, and support drug development for population health.
19. Clinical Data Manager	Manage clinical trial data, ensure data quality, and support statistical analysis for reporting.
20. Medical Lab Technologist	Analyze blood, tissue, and body fluids, maintain lab instruments, and support diagnoses.

General Job Eligibility to work in Science & Pharmaceuticals in Canada with 20 Job Profiles

Job Title	Required Education	Certifications/Licenses	Other Eligibility Criteria
1. Research Scientist	M.Sc./Ph.D. in Biology, Chemistry, or related field	Not mandatory	Strong research experience, publications preferred
2. Clinical Research Associate	B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Life Sciences	GCP Certification	Clinical trial knowledge, 1–2 years experience
3. Regulatory Affairs Specialist	B.Sc. in Life Sciences, Pharmacy, or Chemistry	Regulatory Affairs Certification (e.g. RAC)	Understanding of Canadian/Health Canada regulations
4. Quality Assurance Analyst	B.Sc. in Pharma, Chemistry, or related	Not mandatory	QA/QC experience, knowledge of GMP, GLP
5. Quality Control Analyst	B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Pharma	Not mandatory	Lab testing experience, GMP/GLP knowledge
6. Biotechnologist	B.Sc./M.Sc. in Biotechnology or Molecular Biology	Not mandatory	Lab and research experience, biotech tools knowledge
7. Pharmacovigilance Officer	B.Pharm/M.Pharm or B.Sc. Life Sciences	Pharmacovigilance training preferred	Understanding of ADRs, MedDRA, regulatory compliance
8. Pharmaceutical Sales Rep	B.Sc. in Pharmacy or Life Sciences	Not mandatory	Excellent communication, sales experience preferred
9. Medical Science Liaison (MSL)	PharmD, M.D., Ph.D. in Life Sciences	Not mandatory	Deep scientific knowledge, strong communication
10. Bioinformatics Specialist	M.Sc. in Bioinformatics, CS + Biology	Not mandatory	Programming (Python, R), genomics, data analysis skills
11. Lab Technologist	B.Sc. in Lab Technology, Biology, or Medical Sciences	Certification from CSMLS required	Provincial license in some provinces (e.g., Ontario)
12. Process Engineer	B.Eng./B.Tech in Chemical or Process Engineering	P.Eng (Professional Engineer) license preferred	Manufacturing and process optimization experience
13. Toxicologist	B.Sc./M.Sc. in Toxicology, Pharmacology, or Biology	Not mandatory	Risk assessment knowledge, lab experience
14. Biomedical Scientist	B.Sc./M.Sc. in Biomedical Science	CSMLS Certification if working in clinical lab	Research experience, analytical techniques knowledge
15. Project Manager (Pharma)	B.Sc. + PMP or M.Sc. + MBA (preferred)	PMP Certification (preferred)	Project management experience in pharma/biotech
16. R&D Manager	M.Sc./Ph.D. in Sciences + MBA (preferred)	Not mandatory	Leadership, 5–10 years R&D experience
17. Geneticist	M.Sc./Ph.D. in Genetics or Molecular Biology	Not mandatory	Lab and research experience, familiarity with sequencing tools
18. Epidemiologist	M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Epidemiology or Public Health	Not mandatory	Data analysis skills, public health knowledge
19. Clinical Data Manager	B.Sc. in Life Sciences, Health Informatics	CDM Certification (optional)	Clinical trials & database management experience
20. Medical Lab Technologist	Diploma/B.Sc. in Medical Lab Technology	CSMLS Certification + Provincial License	Required to work legally in clinical labs across Canada

Experience Required to work in Science & Pharmaceuticals in Canada

Job Title	Typical Experience Required	Notes / Preferences
1. Research Scientist	2–5 years (post-graduate research or industry)	Publications and lab experience are highly valued
2. Clinical Research Associate	1–3 years	Experience in clinical trials and GCP knowledge essential
3. Regulatory Affairs Specialist	2–4 years	Regulatory submission experience for Health Canada preferred
4. Quality Assurance Analyst	1–3 years	Experience with GMP, SOPs, and audits is key
5. Quality Control Analyst	1–3 years	Lab testing in pharma or biotech environment preferred
6. Biotechnologist	1–4 years	Lab research, product development, or biotech manufacturing experience useful
7. Pharmacovigilance Officer	1–3 years	ADR reporting and safety data analysis experience required
8. Pharmaceutical Sales Rep	1–2 years (sales or pharma background)	Strong communication and product knowledge are key
9. Medical Science Liaison (MSL)	3–5 years (industry or clinical experience)	Scientific expertise and KOL engagement skills required
10. Bioinformatics Specialist	2–5 years	Experience in genomics, data analysis, and tools like Python/R is expected
11. Lab Technologist	0–2 years	Entry-level roles available; certification may substitute for experience
12. Process Engineer	2–4 years	Experience in pharmaceutical or biotech production processes is preferred
13. Toxicologist	2–5 years	Preclinical research, chemical risk assessment experience advantageous
14. Biomedical Scientist	1–4 years	Research or clinical lab work required depending on role
15. Project Manager (Pharma)	3–6 years	Industry experience and leadership of cross-functional teams expected
16. R&D Manager	5–10 years	Leadership in scientific research and new product development is essential
17. Geneticist	2–5 years	Research or lab-based work in genomics or molecular biology
18. Epidemiologist	2–5 years	Experience in public health or clinical epidemiology preferred
19. Clinical Data Manager	2–4 years	Clinical trial data systems and database management experience important
20. Medical Lab Technologist	0–2 years	Entry-level jobs available; certification and clinical placement may fulfill experience

Top Hiring Companies in Canada of International Candidates in Science & Pharmaceuticals

Company Name	Industry Focus	Locations	Notes
Pfizer Canada	Pharmaceuticals, Vaccines, R&D	Montreal, Kirkland (QC)	Actively hires international experts for R&D, manufacturing, and quality
Sanofi Canada	Biopharmaceuticals, Vaccines	Toronto, Laval (QC)	Operates a major vaccine manufacturing facility in Toronto
Apotex Inc.	Generic Pharmaceuticals	Toronto (ON), Richmond Hill	Canada’s largest generic drug company with global hiring outreach
GSK Canada	Pharmaceuticals, Vaccines	Mississauga (ON)	Offers global mobility programs and hires clinical & research staff
Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.	Biotech, Oncology, Diagnostics	Mississauga (ON)	Global company with R&D and medical affairs roles in Canada
Johnson & Johnson (Janssen)	Pharmaceuticals, Medical Devices	Toronto (ON)	Hires international talent for clinical, regulatory, and QA roles
Novartis Canada	Pharma, Oncology, R&D	Dorval (QC), Toronto (ON)	Supports skilled immigration through Global Talent Stream
Biovail (now Bausch Health)	Pharmaceuticals, Manufacturing	Laval (QC)	Involved in drug development and hiring across multiple scientific roles
Emergent BioSolutions	Biotech, Vaccine Production	Winnipeg (MB), Toronto (ON)	Hires scientists for public health preparedness projects
Medicago (a Mitsubishi Co.)	Biotech, Plant-based Vaccines	Quebec City (QC)	Focus on vaccine development and biotechnology R&D
Theratechnologies	Biopharma (HIV, Oncology, Metabolism)	Montreal (QC)	Recruits scientists, researchers, and clinical trial professionals
BlueRock Therapeutics	Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells	Toronto (ON)	A Bayer subsidiary focusing on advanced R&D hiring
AbCellera Biologics	Antibody Discovery, AI Biotech	Vancouver (BC)	One of Canada’s leading biotech startups with global hiring scope
Zymeworks Inc.	Biopharma, Oncology	Vancouver (BC)	Offers positions in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and data science
NRGene Canada	Genomics, AgriTech	Saskatoon (SK)	Hires bioinformaticians and plant geneticists from international pools
Charles River Laboratories	CRO, Drug Development Services	Senneville (QC), Laval	Large CRO with consistent demand for lab and research talent
IQVIA Canada	Clinical Research, Data Analytics	Mississauga (ON), Remote	One of the top CROs hiring globally for CRAs, data managers, etc.
Syneos Health	Clinical Development, Pharma Services	Remote, Nationwide	Hires international CRAs, medical writers, and project managers
Amgen Canada	Biotechnology, Therapeutics	Mississauga (ON)	Global biotech company with Canadian R&D and commercial presence
Bayer Canada	Pharma, Crop Science, Diagnostics	Mississauga (ON), Calgary	Multinational company with diverse opportunities for skilled workers