MSL Assessment Preparation: The Three Interviews and How to Pass Them

To break into a Medical Affairs role, you need to pass the MSL assessment process. It differs from company to company, but it usually includes three stages: a first interview, a case presentation and a final interview.

In this article we go through each phase and the tools you need to be ready for it. Before you start, you can also watch our free introduction session on clinical trials and the MSL role in pharma companies.

Stage 1: the first interview

This interview is generally about you: your competencies and your readiness for the role. Expect questions such as:

• Introduce yourself.
• Why do you want to join the Medical Affairs department?
• What is your understanding of the MSL role?
• What is the difference between an MSL and a medical representative?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

To answer well, prepare with a solid knowledge of the MSL job description. You should have a good understanding of:

• Clinical trial terminology.
• How to appraise a clinical trial paper.
• The role of the MSL with KOLs.
• Common MSL activities during the different phases of the product lifecycle.

Stage 2: the case presentation

The second interview is usually a case presentation on a clinical trial, a medical strategy or both.

Presenting a clinical trial

You need to know how to present each section of the trial:

1. Unmet medical need
2. Study design
3. Inclusion and exclusion criteria
4. Endpoints
5. Results
6. Study outcomes
7. Limitations

Presenting a medical strategy

If you are asked to present a medical strategy, you need a good understanding of the following. Information for the first four points is not usually provided for assessment purposes.

• Situational analysis
• The product development lifecycle
• Unmet medical needs
• Barriers to the product launch

You should then propose activities for each launch phase (pre-launch, launch and post-launch), such as:

A medical communication plan ties these activities together.

Stage 3: the final interview

This interview usually assesses the key strengths that differentiate you from other candidates. Expect discussions on your understanding of the Medical Affairs role and how you plan to create a positive impact on the company’s medical team.

Finally, always remember: luck is when opportunity meets preparation.