So, you have decided to dedicate your life to caring for others and now it’s time to choose where you want to focus.
What do you see for your future? What do you want out of your career and your life? It’s a lot to think about. To make things easier,
we mapped out the many career opportunities in rheumatology to give you a better idea what a life in rheumatology looks like.
Clinical Investigator
A rheumatology clinical investigator engages in research relevant to rheumatic diseases. A clinical investigator is
responsible for making sure a clinical trial meets all research expectations, regulatory requirements and protects
the rights and welfare of human participants. Access resources for clinician investigators.
Clinical Educator
If you want to stay in a setting where you can train the new rheumatology workforce, then you should become a
clinical educator! Clinical educators provide high-quality clinical education to future rheumatologists and rheumatology
health professionals. See more >
Private Practice
Want autonomy to make decisions that will allow you to take better care of your patients? If so, then, starting a private
practice may be the best career option for you. Starting a medical practice can be the most rewarding undertaking,
but it can also be exceedingly challenging. Learn the ins and outs of private practice.
Basic Science Researcher
These are the diseases detectives in lab coats! Remember, rheumatology is for the curious. Basic science researchers
study diseases in a laboratory at the molecular or cellular level. Learn more about research in rheumatology.
Translational Researcher
Translational research in rheumatic diseases is expanding rapidly with new findings about the genetic factors that influence disease susceptibility and severity. Translational researchers analyze discoveries generated during research in the laboratory and determine the impact on human health. Translational
researchers then develop preventative and treatment strategies and practice guidelines. Discover more
Pediatric Rheumatology
Pediatric Rheumatologists specialize in providing comprehensive care to children with rheumatic diseases. Learn about the ACR Pediatrics Residency Program.
Rheumatology Health Professional
Because rheumatic diseases are often complex and affect many aspects of the patient’s life, effective management requires the
coordinated efforts of a diverse group of professionals. From the social worker to the physician assistant, all play an integral role
in assessing and managing the patient’s symptoms and their effects on physical, psychological and social functioning. Learn more about the
various rheumatology health professional careers.
Industry
Rheumatologists who are successful in the pharmaceutical industry are multifaceted. Rheumatologists with pharmaceutical
careers work with various teams including, clinical operations, regulatory affairs, legal affairs, research groups and commercial departments.