Medicinal and Biological Chemistry (Taught)

In this MSc in Medicinal and Biological Chemistry, you will explore the role of biomolecules in life, disease and biotechnology from a chemical perspective.

You will gain a thorough understanding of the structures, properties, functions, applications and manipulation of biological molecules, from macromolecules to cells, whilst also discussing the design of exciting new medicines in the laboratory and their function in clinical settings. This also requires the chemical understanding of synthetic molecules, their structures, properties, analysis and synthesis.

The programme will have a strong practical element and significant continuous assessment. This includes a practical research project, which provides you with invaluable experience of working on a real research project on a medicinal or biological chemistry topic.

Much of the teaching is designed specifically for the MSc students and you will be assessed through a combination of:

• coursework

• laboratory reports

• presentations

• exams

• performance and reporting on the MSc research project

The knowledge and skills acquired in the programme will leave graduates well equipped to compete for positions in chemical, pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies.

The lecture courses include topics in:

• Concepts in Medicinal and Biological Chemistry

• Advanced Medicinal Chemistry

• Advanced Biological Chemistry

• Optional Courses in Chemistry

• Laboratory Techniques and Research Techniques

These are studied concurrently with a predominantly practical based course offering an introduction to research methods related to medicinal and biological chemistry.

Students then proceed to a period of full-time research project work, leading to the submission of their Masters dissertation.

See our website for detailed programme information.