Career Corner: Industry Insight: A Conversation with Dr. Kachiu C. Lee

 

Industry Insight: A Conversation with Dr. Kachiu C. Lee

Special thanks to Dr. Kachiu C. Lee for sharing her reflections on drug development, industry partnerships, and working with pharmaceutical companies. Dr. Lee is a board-certified dermatologist based in Pennsylvania.

How did you initially become involved in working with pharmaceutical companies and drug development?

Dr. Lee:

"I have always been interested in drug development and the clinical trial process, so I began getting involved in clinical trials during residency. When I was applying for fellowship, I specifically looked for programs that would allow me to continue building that experience through research and clinical trials. In my first few years as an attending, I remained involved in clinical trials in an academic setting, which gave me the foundation and experience to later serve as a principal investigator."

 

Are there particular qualifications or experiences that pharmaceutical companies look for when partnering with dermatologists?

Dr. Lee:

"There are many different ways to work with industry, and the qualifications depend on the role and the company. For example, dermatologists may be involved as speakers, principal investigators, or advisory board members. If you are interested in clinical trials, prior research experience is very helpful, even at the resident or fellow level. It is also useful to speak with your representative, who can connect you with the right person at the company to learn about available opportunities."

 

Does practice setting matter when working with these companies (i.e. does it matter if you are in academic medicine vs. private practice?)

Dr. Lee:

"Yes, practice setting can influence the types of opportunities available. For example, if you are conducting a clinical trial for a rare dermatologic disease, being at an academic center with access to a large patient population can be a major advantage. That said, both academic and private practice settings can offer meaningful opportunities depending on the company’s needs and the physician’s interests."

 

If you do not have a significant social media presence, is there still a way to get involved with pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical, or industry companies?

Dr. Lee:

"Absolutely. A strong social media presence is not required to work with industry. Companies often engage dermatologists with large followings for marketing-related roles, while those without a social media presence may be involved through clinical, research, or advisory opportunities. There is a role for many different kinds of physicians."

 

What advice would you give to early career physicians looking to get involved in industry?

Dr. Lee:

"Start early. Residency is a great time to begin building those relationships and gaining experience. I often stayed after hours in clinic to see clinical trial patients, which gave me valuable hands-on experience and helped me network with representatives and other professionals who could later recommend me for opportunities."