The biopharma industry continues to evolve at pace. Advances in cell and gene therapy, AI-driven drug discovery, and an increasingly complex regulatory landscape are reshaping not just how medicines are developed, but also the people needed to develop them.
As we move into 2026 and beyond, demand for highly specialised talent is only increasing. Below are the roles we’re seeing consistently requested by biopharma companies, from early-stage biotech through to global pharma organisations.
1. Regulatory Affairs Professionals
Regulatory talent remains one of the most difficult areas to hire across biopharma. As pipelines become more complex and global approval pathways more fragmented, companies need experienced regulatory professionals who can navigate multiple regions and evolving guidelines.
High-demand areas include:
- Regulatory Affairs Managers and Directors
- Specialists with FDA, EMA, and MHRA experience
- Professionals with cell and gene therapy or rare disease expertise
Strong regulatory hires often make the difference between delayed submissions and successful market access.
2. Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) Specialists
Quality functions continue to be business-critical, particularly as companies scale manufacturing or transition from clinical to commercial stages.
Roles in demand include:
- QA Managers (GxP, GMP, GDP)
- QP-qualified professionals
- QC Analysts with biologics or ATMP experience
With increased regulatory scrutiny and supply chain complexity, quality teams are being strengthened earlier than ever in a company’s lifecycle.
3. Manufacturing & Process Development Experts
The shift towards biologics, advanced therapies, and personalised medicine has created a sustained need for manufacturing talent.
Key roles include:
- Process Development Scientists
- Manufacturing Engineers
- MSAT (Manufacturing Science and Technology) professionals
- Upstream and downstream specialists
Companies are particularly focused on candidates who can support scale-up, tech transfer, and commercial readiness.
4. Clinical Operations and Development Professionals
Despite market fluctuations, clinical development remains a hiring priority. Sponsors are seeking experienced professionals who can manage increasingly complex trials while controlling costs and timelines.
In-demand roles include:
- Clinical Project Managers
- Clinical Research Associates (CRAs)
- Clinical Trial Managers
- Clinical Operations Directors
Experience in rare disease, oncology, and decentralised trials is especially sought after.
5. Data, Digital & AI Talent
Data-driven decision-making is now embedded across drug discovery, development, and commercial strategy. As a result, biopharma companies are competing heavily for digital and data professionals.
Commonly requested roles:
- Bioinformaticians
- Data Scientists
- AI/Machine Learning Engineers
- Digital Health Specialists
Candidates who can bridge scientific understanding with advanced analytics are particularly valuable.
6. Commercial and Market Access Specialists
As more innovative therapies reach late-stage development, commercial teams are being built earlier and more strategically.
High-demand positions include:
- Market Access and HEOR professionals
- Pricing and Reimbursement Specialists
- Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs)
- Commercial Strategy Leaders
Experience launching products in competitive or highly regulated markets is a major advantage.
7. Leadership and Cross-Functional Talent
Beyond technical expertise, companies are placing increasing emphasis on leadership capability. Individuals who can operate across functions, manage growth, and adapt to change are consistently in demand.
This includes:
- Heads of Function
- Program and Portfolio Leaders
- C-suite executives for scaling biotechs
Cultural fit, communication skills, and change management experience are often just as important as technical background.
What This Means for Employers and Candidates
For employers, competition for top biopharma talent will remain intense. Early engagement, realistic hiring timelines, and access to specialist recruitment support are becoming essential.
For candidates, niche expertise, adaptability, and continuous skill development will be key to staying in demand as the industry evolves.
At its core, biopharma hiring is becoming more specialised, more global, and more strategic — and that trend shows no sign of slowing down.