Medicinal and Biological Chemistry, MChem (Hons)

Medicinal and Biological Chemistry is concerned with understanding biological mechanisms and processes at the level of the atoms and molecules involved. In doing so, alongside the tools of synthetic chemistry and genetic manipulation, we can design and deliver pharmaceutical interventions. You will learn how breakthroughs in the understanding of the molecular basis of diseases are being combined with cross-disciplinary advances in:

• chemistry

• biology

• nanotechnology

In addition, you will understand how these advances are helping to create new generations of innovative therapeutics. The programme teaches a thorough understanding of the diverse 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 cooperate in finely tuned networks and pathways or are organised into:

• macromolecular complexes

• membranes

• organelles

• cells

• tissues

This degree programme provides the intellectual framework for understanding this topic, building upon a solid foundation in chemistry and cell and molecular biology - from the fundamentals to the frontiers of current research. The degree focuses strongly on the wide range of analytical and experimental skills necessary to practice the subject. It also provides insight into research via a final-year research project working at the cutting edge of the subject. You may choose to undertake your project:

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

• at one of our partner universities overseas

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