Medicinal and Biological Chemistry, MChem (Hons)

Course summary

Medicinal and Biological Chemistry aims to understand biological mechanisms and processes of atoms and molecules. Through understanding the tools of synthetic chemistry and genetic manipulation, we can design and deliver pharmaceutical interventions. You will learn how new insights into the molecular basis of diseases are being combined with advances in the following fields:

• chemistry

• biology

• nanotechnology

You will also understand how these advances are helping to create new generations of innovative therapeutics. The programme provides an understanding of the range of molecules and macromolecules needed to build a living organism, including their:

• structures

• properties

• syntheses (in the lab and in vivo)

You will learn how biological molecules work together in networks and pathways or are organised into:

• macromolecular complexes

• membranes

• organelles

• cells

• tissues

This degree programme provides the framework for understanding this topic, building on a solid foundation in chemistry, cell and molecular biology, from the basics to the cutting-edge of today's research. The programme focuses on the range of analytical and experimental skills necessary to practice the subject. It also provides insight into research through a final-year research project. You may choose to carry out your project in one of the following ways:

• as a member of a research group at the University of Edinburgh

• at one of our partner universities overseas

• in a company or research institute in the UK or abroad

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