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Explore the effects of drugs on living organisms

Can you imagine a world without therapeutic drugs? Whether to treat a headache or to cure cancer, drugs play an integral role in our lives. Pharmacology is the science that examines the effects of drugs on biological systems, from understanding the molecular level interactions by which drugs work, through to their effects in people. Drugs can be chemical or biological substances that modify the normal physiological function of the body or influence the dysfunctional processes that have arisen due to disease or infection.

Pharmacology draws upon physiology and biochemistry principles in developing an understanding of the mechanisms of drug actions. Pharmacologists research and develop new drugs, improve our understanding of how drugs work, identify people that could most benefit from a given drug and make sure drugs are effective and safe. 

Choose from a range of career paths

Graduates with training in pharmacology can pursue a large range of career pathways. Many will pursue a career as a research pharmacologist or apply for postgraduate training. Others will apply their knowledge of pharmacology to undertake careers in regulatory control with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), regulatory compliance in a pharmaceutical company or as part of a team testing the safety and efficacy of new drugs. Pharmacology can also lead to careers in medical science, marketing or clinical trial management. With additional study, pharmacology may provide entry to careers in medical/scientific communications or journalism, patent law or management of biomedical businesses. 

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