Medicinal Chemistry, MChem

OverviewMedicinal chemistry is a highly interdisciplinary field that applies the knowledge of different aspects of chemistry to develop and modify drug and diagnostic molecules. It has had, and continues to have, a tremendous impact on society, contributing significantly to increased quality of (healthy) life and lifespan. Development of drugs/diagnostics not only requires practical and theoretical skills in, for example, small molecule synthesis of drug molecules, but it also requires an understanding of drug/diagnostic targets, and how drugs/diagnostics interact with their target. Gaining this knowledge will play an important role in the development of next generation therapeutics and diagnostics. Our Master’s course will provide the academic training you need to become a medicinal chemist. Our cutting-edge research in chemical sciences is at the heart of our teaching. The course will be delivered through lectures, workshops, small group tutorials and practicals – ensuring your learning is at the forefront of scientific thought. Making a choice between an MChem or BSc course can be difficult. If you’re unsure which course is right for you, don’t worry. You’ll be given advice before you begin studying and while you’re a student here. And, because of the common structure of our courses, you can transfer between the MChem and BSc in your first or second years. About This CourseThis is the chemistry degree you should choose if you aspire to becoming a medicinal chemist. Our four-year integrated master’s course will give you the in-depth academic training you need to follow your chosen career path. The course will equip you with the theoretical and practical skills in chemistry that are important for becoming a medicinal chemist. This includes: advanced methods for synthesis of small molecules; analytical techniques that are important for characterization of small molecule drugs (organic and inorganic), biomolecular targets, and drug-biomolecular interactions; chemical understanding of how and why the body modifies drug molecules; and engineering biomolecules for future therapeutic and diagnostic applications. In your final year, you’ll tailor your study to specialise in the areas that reflect your interests and career aspirations, and you’ll undertake an independent research project. A key benefit to our MChem course is the emphasis we place on laboratory-based teaching, and the development of practical skills. Your lab work will include synthesis of new compounds, characterization of these compounds by spectroscopic methods, and the study of their individual properties, with special emphasis on medicinal chemistry. DisclaimerCourse details are subject to change. You should always confirm the details on the provider's website: www.uea.ac.uk