How Do We Select the Right Linguists for Life Science Projects?

Selecting the right linguists to translate life science content is a critical process due to the specialized nature of the field and the fact that the market is highly regulated. Documents may comprise a mixture of complex scientific data, medical terminology, and technical language. Inaccurate translations in clinical trial documentation, patient information leaflets, or drug labels can jeopardize patient safety, leading to the improper use of medication or devices. It is vital to ensure accuracy, compliance, cultural sensitivity, and clear communication, all of which are essential for the safety, effectiveness, and success of life science products and services.

Our company has developed and implemented a Quality Management System (QMS) that complies with a range of international standards: ISO 9001, ISO 17100, ISO 18841, ISO 20771, and ISO 18587.

The first of these seeks to help build a business with predictable and stable quality results, and the rest cover specific requirements for language service providers.

The selection, evaluation, and re-evaluation processes used by the company were established in accordance with ISO 9001 and include the following stages:

1. Understand the Requirements

Life sciences cover a broad range of topics (pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, clinical trials, medical devices, etc.). Identifying the specific area to which the content relates is absolutely vital.

2. Define Linguist Qualifications

Look for linguists with a background in the given area (e.g., degrees in biology, pharmacology, or medicine).

Check their previous experience and certifications in the life sciences field (e.g., ATA, ISO certifications).

3. Screening Process

Request a short sample translation on a relevant life sciences topic to assess accuracy, terminology, and style.

Ask for references from previous clients in the life sciences field and verify the quality of the linguist’s work and their reliability.

4. Evaluation

Consistency: Assess the linguist’s ability to maintain consistent terminology and style throughout the document.

Cultural adaptation: Evaluate the linguist’s understanding of cultural nuances in the target language, especially for patient-facing materials.

Quality control: Implement a QA process to review translations before final delivery. This could involve back translation or review by a second linguist.