Masters Degrees (Biocatalysis)

The chemistry of biological processes is the basis of all life on planet Earth. On this course you will develop an understanding of the processes that are core to biological chemistry. We will explore aspects such as biosynthesis, retrosynthetic analysis, molecular biology and the principles of drug development. We will also look at the applications of biological chemistry in catalysts, synthetic methods and spectroscopy, giving our graduates an edge when looking for employment in academia or industry.

Distinctive features:

• Available on a one year full-time or three year part-time basis.

• Explore real life biological systems as well as applications of biological processes, for example in catalysis.

• Specialise in an area of interest to you with an end of course research project.

• Some overseas academic placements may be available for the research project.

Structure

This course may be taken on a one year full-time or three year part-time basis.

There are two parts to the degree. Part one comprises core and optional taught modules which you will take during the autumn and spring semesters. In these modules we will provide you with an understanding of the biological problems and processes at the interface of chemistry and biology. We will study real life systems and explore aspects such as natural product synthesis, biocatalysis, molecular biology, synthetic biology, enzymology, medicinal chemistry and molecular modelling.

Upon successful completion of part one of the degree you will progress to part two, the summer research project. We will make a range of project options available to you from the field of biological chemistry. For this project you may work with a research group in the School of Chemistry. You may also be able to complete this project with one of our academic partner institutions overseas.

If you are on the one year full-time degree option, you will undertake all modules and your research project in one year.

Core modules:

Structure and Mechanism in Organic Chemistry
Biosynthetic Approach to Natural Products
Biocatalysis I - Modern Approaches to Biocatalysts
Colloquium
Biocatalysis II - Industrial Applications of Biocatalysis
Medicinal Chemistry
Bioinorganic Chemistry
Advanced Techniques in Organic and Biological Chemistry
Key Skills for Postgraduate Chemists
Practical Chemical Biology
Research Project

Optional modules:

Modelling of Biological Macromolecules
Asymmetric Synthesis of Pharmaceuticals and Natural Products
Analytical and Structural Techniques in Chemical Biology
Molecular Modelling

Teaching

The methods of teaching we employ will vary from module to module, as appropriate depending on the subject matter and the method of assessment. We teach using a mixture of lectures, workshops, computational sessions, laboratory practicals and tutorials.

Your research project will be carried out in one of our laboratories under supervision of an academic member of staff with interests in a similar field, unless you choose to complete your project during a placement with one of our academic partner institutions overseas, depending on availability.

Modules relating to computing frequently take place in our computer rooms, while practical work will be undertaken in our laboratories. We frequently invite external academic speakers and industry experts to the School for seminars, which our postgraduate students are encouraged to attend.

Support

All of our students are allocated a personal tutor when they enrol on the course. A personal tutor is there to support you during your studies and can advise you on academic and personal matters that may be affecting you. You should have regular meetings with your personal tutor to ensure that you are fully supported.

You will have access to the Science Library, which holds our collection of chemistry resources, as well as to the other Cardiff University Libraries.

Feedback:

We offer written and oral feedback, depending on the coursework or assessment you have undertaken. You will usually receive your feedback from the module leader. If you have questions regarding your feedback, module leaders are usually happy to give advice and guidance on your progress. We aim to provide you with regular feedback on your work after assessments have been submitted.

Assessment

Taught modules are assessed in a variety of ways depending on the module content and learning outcomes (found in the module descriptions). We use course work, assessed workshops, posters and oral presentations or a combination of these to assess your progress on the course.

Your research project at the end of the course will be assessed through a dissertation, a presentation, and an oral exam.

Career prospects

After completing this course there are usually two career streams open to graduates, research or industry. Within these two fields there are a variety of career options. For example, many of our graduates choose to follow up their MSc and decide to complete a PhD research degree with us. Those who have chosen not to continue in academia or teaching have gone on to a wide range of employment in private industries such as Kimberley-Clark group, Thales group, and Imanova Ltd.

Placements

For the end of course research project we may have some placements available with one of our academic partner institutions overseas. Please enquire early for further details

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The field of medicinal chemistry is becoming increasingly important as we continue to push the boundaries in the discovery of new drugs and applications in healthcare. This MSc in Medicinal Chemistry will allow you to specialise in this area and explore the wider context of drug discovery, business and healthcare.

On the course, you will develop the specific technical knowledge, understanding and laboratory skills needed to design drugs. You will also investigate the relationship between medicinal chemists and drug discovery companies with stakeholders such as patients, investors and governments.

Distinctive features:

• Available on a one year full-time or three year part-time basis.
• Explore medicinal chemistry in a wider industrial context, including how businesses interact with patients and investors.
• Specialise in an area of interest to you with an end of course research project.
• Some industrial and academic placements are available in the UK or abroad for the research project.
• Network and build contacts with industry professionals who are frequently invited to present guest seminars.

Structure

This course may be taken on a one year full-time or three year part-time basis.

There are two parts to the degree. Part one is comprised of core and optional taught modules which you will take during the autumn and spring semesters. In these modules we will provide you with a foundation in the skills required by contemporary medicinal chemists, such as the techniques and trends in modern drug discovery. We will also look in more detail at the modelling of biological macromolecules and drug targets. We will then follow the process of drug development through from laboratory to clinic.

Upon successful completion of part one, you will progress to part two, the summer research project. We will make a range of project options available to you from the field of medicinal chemistry. For this project, depending on the subject you choose, you may work with a research group in the School of Chemistry or our partner, the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Studies. You may, if available, also be able to complete this project with one of our industrial partners or within another academic institution in the UK or abroad.

Core modules:

Colloquium
Key Skills for Postgraduate Chemists
Drug Discovery Chemistry
Techniques in Drug Discovery
Drug Targets
Drug Development from Laboratory to Clinic
Trends in Drug Discovery
Practical Medicinal Chemistry
Research Project

Optional modules:

Module title Module code Credits
Modelling of Biological Macromolecules
Structure and Mechanism in Organic Chemistry
Biosynthetic Approach to Natural Products
Biocatalysis I - Modern Approaches to Biocatalysts
Biocatalysis II - Industrial Applications of Biocatalysis
Bioinorganic Chemistry
Asymmetric Synthesis of Pharmaceuticals and Natural Products
Advanced Techniques in Organic and Biological Chemistry
Analytical and Structural Techniques in Chemical Biology
Bio-imaging Applications of Coordination Chemistry
Molecular Modelling

Teaching

The methods of teaching we employ will vary from module to module, as appropriate depending on the subject matter and the method of assessment. We teach using a mixture of lectures, workshops, case studies, computer-aided sessions, practicals and tutorials.

Your research project will be carried out in one of our laboratories under supervision of an academic member of staff with interests in a similar field. You may have the opportunity to complete your project during a placement in industry or with one of our academic partner institutions overseas, depending on availability.

Modules relating to computing frequently take place in our computer rooms, while practical work will be undertaken in our laboratories. We will also invite industry experts for seminars with our students within one of the core modules. Students will also benefit of the weekly seminars organized by the School of Chemistry, where leading experts in various scientific fields are invited to present their work.

Support

All of our students are allocated a personal tutor when they enrol on the course. A personal tutor is there to support you during your studies, and can advise you on academic and personal matters that may be affecting you. You should have regular meetings with your personal tutor to ensure that you are fully supported.

You will have access to the Science Library, which holds our collection of chemistry resources, as well as to the other Cardiff University Libraries.

Feedback:

We will provide regular feedback on your workload, written and oral depending on the coursework or assessment you have undertaken. You will usually receive your feedback from the module leader. If you have questions regarding your feedback, module leaders are happy to give advice and guidance on your progress. We aim to provide you with feedback within two weeks of you submitting an assessment.

Assessment

Taught modules are assessed in a variety of different ways depending on the module content and learning outcomes (found in the module descriptions). We use coursework, assessed workshops and presentations or a combination of these to assess your progress on the course.

Your research project at the end of the course will be assessed through a dissertation, a presentation, and an oral exam.

Career prospects

After completing this course there are usually two career streams open to graduates, research or industry. Within these two fields there are a variety of career options. For example, many of our graduates choose to follow up their MSc and decide to complete a PhD research degree with us. Employment opportunities for successful graduates include the expanding worldwide pharmaceutical industry, where many choose to specialise in the research and development of new drugs. Research-related jobs usually require a PhD, for which this programme provides an ideal preparation.

Placements

For the end of course research project we may have some placements available with one of our industrial partners or at another UK or overseas academic institution that we have an agreement with. Please enquire for further details.

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The first course of its kind to be accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, this taught Masters course is designed to equip you with the necessary skills in green chemistry and green chemical technology to prepare you for a range of different careers in research, process development, environmental services, manufacturing, law, consultancy and government.

Course Content

The MSc is a one year full time course consisting of taught material and a substantial research project. Teaching is delivered by academic experts within the Department of Chemistry as well as external experts from other academic institutions and industry. The Teaching component of the course is delivered via a mix of lectures, workshops, seminars and practical work. You will learn about the key principles of green chemistry and the importance of sustainable technology in a variety of areas. In addition to this, you will also have the opportunity to enhance your transferable skills.

Assessment methods include a closed examination, written assignments, presentations, posters and practical work.

Our Students

The MSc course has been running for over ten years over which time there has been a large increase in the range of nationalities represented. The content of the course is globally relevant and so attracts applications from around the world from people keen to develop their own knowledge to pass on when they return to their home country. Students have an opportunity not only to benefit from the degree that will aid them in their future career in industry or elsewhere but also to experience the cultural and social attractions that the university and the city can offer.

Students who have previously studied the MSc programme have come from France, Spain, Ireland, Tanzania, Nigeria, Oman, Thailand, Malta, Lithuania, Brunei, China and Malaysia to name but few – the full range can be seen on the map below. The diversity of our students enriches the cultural experience for all members of the group.

Career Destinations

The course will be of benefit to students who wish to follow a range of career paths including those in chemistry-based industries:
-Speciality chemical and associated manufacturing industries
-Fine chemical and associated manufacturing industries
-Catalyst development
-Pharmaceutical industry in either a research or process-development role
-Chemical formulation
-Chemical user companies along the entire supply chain including retail
-Government departments and science laboratories
-University academic career
-University research career, in particular as a route to PhD research
-Environmental monitoring and evaluation
-Legal services and other organisations

Research Project

A key part of the MSc in Green Chemistry is the research project. The whole course is 180 credits and the research project accounts for 100 of these so is a very significant part of the programme.

Students are able to choose from a range of project areas in order to carry out research in their area of interest. Projects will be supervised by an academic member of staff, and may also involve collaboration with industry. Projects are chosen in the early stages of the course and you will be allocated to a PAG - Project Area Group - that corresponds with larger research projects that are currently taking place within the Green Chemistry Centre.

Projects can vary each year, but examples of recent MSc students' research includes:
-Production of natural flavours and fragrances using biocatalysis in scCO2
-Clean synthetic strategies for production of pharmaceuticals
-Extraction and utilisation of high value chemicals from food waste
-Starbon technology for catalysis
-Microwave assisted pyrolysis of wood pellets
-Bio-derived platform molecules

The research project module is assessed by a substantial written report by each student, a PAG report and an oral presentation on your individual research.

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Catalysis lies at the heart of many chemical processes, from living systems to large-scale industrial reactors. By understanding and applying catalysts, we can make processes faster, cleaner and more sustainable. Specialists in catalysis are particularly sought after in industry, as more efficient processes can lead to less waste and cost savings.

Our MSc in Catalysis will provide you with a sound foundation in catalysis theory and its applications. We will explore three branches of catalysis – heterogeneous, homogeneous and biological – and you will be given the opportunity to specialise in the area you are most interested in. You will be trained to use a range of laboratory equipment and techniques for testing and characterising catalysts.

Distinctive features:

• Based on the research undertaken in the School of Chemistry and the Cardiff Catalysis Institute.

• Available on a one-year full-time or three-year part-time basis.

• Specialise in heterogeneous, homogeneous or biological catalysis for your research project.

• Tailor the degree to your interests with our range of optional modules.

• Opportunity to carry out research at an overseas partner university.

Structure

This course may be taken on a one-year full-time or three-year part-time basis.

There are two parts to the degree. Part one is comprised of core and optional taught modules which you will take during the autumn and spring semesters. In these modules we will provide you with a foundation in the theory of heterogeneous, homogeneous and biological catalysis. Optional modules will allow you to specialise in your area of interest.

On progression to part two, you will carry out a summer research project in our research laboratories or one of our partner universities. We will make a range of project options available to you from the three areas of catalysis, molecular modelling, or computational chemistry.

If you are on the one-year full-time degree option, you will undertake all modules and your research project in one year.
If you are studying this course on a three-year part-time basis, you will take half the taught modules in year one.

Core modules:

Catalysis and Electrocatalysis
Biocatalysis I - Modern Approaches to Biocatalysts
Colloquium
Catalyst Design Study
Preparation and Evaluation of Heterogeneous Catalysts
Mechanism and Ligand Design in Homogeneous Catalysis
Practical Catalytic Chemistry
Key Skills for Postgraduate Chemists
Research Project

Optional modules:

Modelling of Biological Macromolecules
Applications To Materials Science
Bioinorganic Chemistry
Modern Catalytic Processes
Advanced Techniques in Organic and Biological Chemistry
Molecular Modelling
Catalytic Materials for Green Chemistry

Teaching

The methods of teaching we employ will vary from module to module, as appropriate depending on the subject matter and the method of assessment. We teach using a mixture of lectures, workshops, tutorials, practicals and self-directed learning.

Your research project will be carried out in research laboratories under the supervision of an academic member of staff with interests in a similar field.

Modules relating to computing frequently take place in our computer rooms, while practical work and your research project will be undertaken in our laboratories.

Students will also benefit of the weekly seminars organised by the School of Chemistry, where leading experts in various scientific fields are invited to present their work.

Support

All of our students are allocated a personal tutor when they enrol on the course. A personal tutor is there to support you during your studies, and can advise you on academic and personal matters that may be affecting you. You should have regular meetings with your personal tutor to ensure that you are fully supported. Many of our staff operate an open door policy and meetings can be arranged at mutually convenient times to discuss your work.

You will have access to the Science Library, which holds our collection of chemistry resources, as well as to the other Cardiff University Libraries. In addition to the library facilities the University has extensive electronic resources of text books and research journals that can be accessed online.

Feedback:

We offer written and oral feedback, depending on the coursework or assessment you have undertaken. You will usually receive your feedback from the module leader. If you have questions regarding your feedback, module leaders are usually happy to give advice and guidance on your progress.

Assessment

Taught modules are assessed in a variety of different ways depending on the module content and learning outcomes (found in the module descriptions). We use course work, assessed workshops, presentations and examinations or a combination of these to assess your progress on the course.

Your research project at the end of the course will be assessed through a dissertation, a presentation, and an oral exam.

Career prospects

Upon completion of this course, there are usually two career streams open to graduates: research or industry. Within these two fields there are a variety of career options. For example, many of our graduates choose to follow up their MSc and decide to complete a PhD research degree with us. Other past graduates have found employment in industry with companies such as Johnson Matthey, Thales, Hexion, BAE Systems in the UK, as well as international companies such as Haldor Topsøe, Denmark and the National Science and Technology Development Agency in Thailand.

Placements

There is the opportunity to undertake the research project overseas in one of our partner institutions allowing you to expand your range of chemistry knowledge, laboratory skills and professional network.

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Do you want to focus your scientific career on one of the fastest moving sectors of science? The UK has hundreds of biotech companies and is a leader in innovating specialist products from living organisms. Biotech applications are enhancing food production, treating medical conditions, and having a significant impact on the global future.

Given the common expectation for job candidates to have some form of postgraduate qualification, this Masters course offers a route to careers in biotechnology as well as the broader life sciences industry. If your first degree included the study of genetics and molecular biology, and a research module, you’re well-placed to join us.

This course can also be started in January (full time 21 months) - for more information please view this web-page: https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/biotechnology-dtfbty6/

Learn From The Best

The quality of teaching in life sciences at Northumbria has been recognised by strong performance in student-led awards, Further evidence of academic excellence is the number of invitations to members of our team to join the editorial boards of scientific journals.

Our teaching team maintains close links with biotech companies and research labs, including via on-going roles as consultants, which helps ensure an up-to-date understanding of the latest technical and commercial developments. Several academics are involved in biotech ventures that make use of the University’s facilities: Nzomics Biocatalysis develops enzyme alternatives to chemical processes, and Nu-omics offers DNA sequencing services.

Teaching And Assessment

We aim for interactive teaching sessions and you will engage in discussions, problem-solving exercises and other activities. Teaching can start in the lab or classroom and then you make the material your own by exploring and applying it. Technology Enhanced Learning makes this easier; each module has an electronic blackboard site with relevant information including electronic reading lists and access to websites, videos and other study materials that are available anytime, anywhere.

You will undertake assignments within small groups and we provide training in communication skills relevant for scientific communication. The course aims to foster your ability to work at a professional standard both individually and as part of a team.

Module Overview
AP0700 - Graduate Science Research Methods (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0701 - Molecular Biology (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0702 - Bioinformatics (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0703 - Subject Exploration (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0704 - Industrial Biotechnology (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0705 - Current Topics in Biotechnology (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0708 - Applied Sciences Research Project (Core, 60 Credits)

Learning Environment

The technical facilities at Northumbria University are excellent. We are fully equipped for molecular biology manipulations and imaging – techniques include RT-PCR to show whether or not a specific gene is being expressed in a given sample. We also have pilot scale bioreactors so that we can scale up experiments and processes.

For cell biology and immunology, we have two multi-user laboratories. Technologies include assays for measuring immune responses at the single-cell level, and for monitoring the functioning of cells in real time. Further capabilities include biomarker analysis, flow cytometry, chemical imaging and fluorescence microscopy. For genomics, proteomics and metabolomics, our capabilities include genomic sequencing, mass spectrometry, 2D protein electrophoresis and nanoflow liquid chromatography.

All our equipment is supported up by highly skilled technical staff who will help you make the best use of all the facilities that are available.

Research-Rich Learning

In fast-moving fields like biotechnology, it’s particularly important for teaching to take account of the latest research. Many of our staff are conducting research in areas such as molecular biology, bio-informatics, gene expression and micro-biology of extreme environments. They bring all this experience and expertise into their teaching.

As a student, you will be heavily engaged in analysing recent insights from the scientific literature. You will undertake a major individual project in molecular and cellular science that will encompass all aspects of a scientific study. These include evaluation of relevant literature, design and set-up of experiments, collection and processing of data, analysis of results, preparation of a report and presentation of findings in a seminar.

Give Your Career An Edge

Many recruiters in the biotech industry expect candidates to have studied at postgraduate level so our Masters qualification will help you get through the door of the interview room. Once there, your major project and other assignments will help ensure there is plenty to catch their attention. Employers are looking for the ability to solve problems, think critically, work with others and function independently – which are exactly the attributes that our course develops to a higher level.

During your time at Northumbria, we encourage you to participate in the activities organised by the Career Development Service. We also encourage you to apply for associate membership of the Royal Society of Biology, with full membership becoming possible once you have at least three years’ postgraduate experience in study or work.

Your Future

The biotech industry has made huge progress in the last few decades and the years ahead promise to be even more transformational. With an MSc Biotechnology, you will be ready to contribute to the changes ahead through a rigorous scientific approach and your grasp of the fundamental knowledge, insights and skills that underlie modern biotechnology.

Scientific research is at the heart of the course and you will strengthen pivotal skills that will enhance your employability in any research-rich environment. By developing the practices, standards and principles relevant to becoming a bioscience professional, you will also prepare yourself for success in other sectors of the life sciences industry and beyond.

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Learn the specialist techniques that form the basis of modern biotechnology. Discover the complexities of macromolecular structure and function.

Your studies will focus on the integration of structural biology and bioinformatics approaches. You’ll gain an understanding of the activity of proteins, including enzymes, antibodies and receptors at a molecular level. You will learn how to use techniques such as structure-based drug design, biocatalysis and protein engineering, which are the basis for many recent advances in biotechnology.

The course will give you invaluable transferable skills for your future career which is ideal if you want to specialise in a particular field or change direction from your first degree. You’ll have the option to choose from a wide variety of optional interdisciplinary units, allowing you to tailor your course.

Your studies will help you develop the skills you need to move into a wide range of careers in the sciences or to take on further research. Our graduates have an excellent employment record with companies and academic institutions across the globe. Graduates have moved into roles with employers including Biocapita in Beijing, BBSRC in the UK and National University of Singapore in Malaysia.

Visit the website http://www.bath.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-2018/taught-postgraduate-master-s-courses/msc-protein-structure-and-function/

Why study Biology and Biochemistry with us?

- 90% of our research judged to be internationally recognised, excellent or world-leading

- Our current research funding portfolio stands at £14 million, supporting internationally excellent research in the biosciences

What will I learn?

The aim of each of our MSc programmes in Biology and Biochemistry is to provide professional-level training that will develop highly skilled bioscientists with strong theoretical, research and transferable skills, all of which are necessary to work at the forefront of modern biosciences.

For further information please see our department pages (http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/)

Career opportunities

Since graduating, our students have gone on to employment or further research at institutions in the US, Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa.

Recent employers include:

Morvus-Technology Ltd

Janssen-Cilag

Royal United Hospital, Bath

Ministry of Defence

State Intellectual Property Office, Beijing

Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford University

AbCam

Salisbury Foundation Trust Hospital

BBSRC

Lonza

Find out more about the department here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/

Find out how to apply here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/science/graduate-school/taught-programmes/how-to-apply/

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Learn the specialist techniques that form the basis of modern biotechnology. Discover the complexities of macromolecular structure and function.

This is the course for you if you want to go into a research career or study for a PhD in the field of protein structure and function. Your studies will focus on the integration of structural biology and bioinformatics approaches. You’ll gain an understanding of the activity of proteins, including enzymes, antibodies and receptors at a molecular level. You will learn how to use techniques such as structure-based drug design, biocatalysis and protein engineering, which are the basis for many recent advances in biotechnology.

The MRes provides a unique mix of taught components, extended laboratory projects, literature reviews and preparation of a grant proposal based on a research dissertation. You’ll gain an insight into a range of research activities and techniques, gaining the transferable skills training needed for all early stage researchers. You’ll also address the scientific, ethical and commercial context within which the research takes place.

All of the MRes courses can be studied as the first year of our Integrated PhD course.

Visit the website http://www.bath.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-2018/taught-postgraduate-master-s-courses/mres-protein-structure-and-function/

Why study Biology and Biochemistry with us?

- 90% of our research judged to be internationally recognised, excellent or world-leading

- Our current research funding portfolio stands at £14 million, supporting internationally excellent research in the bioscience

What will I learn?

MRes degree programmes are designed for graduates who are contemplating a research career and who may go on to study for a PhD or to a position in industry involving interaction with research scientists.

If these do not apply, you might consider an MSc programme (http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/postgraduate/)

For further information please visit our department pages (http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/)

Career opportunities

Since graduating, our students have gone on to employment or further research at institutions in the US, Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa.

Recent employers include:

Morvus-Technology Ltd

Janssen-Cilag

Royal United Hospital, Bath

Ministry of Defence

State Intellectual Property Office, Beijing

Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford University

AbCam

Salisbury Foundation Trust Hospital

BBSRC

Lonza

Find out more about the department here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/

Find out how to apply here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/science/graduate-school/taught-programmes/how-to-apply/

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Course overview

In our search for better medicines to improve healthcare in an ageing population, for safer agrochemicals to aid food production for a growing population, and for advanced materials for new technologies, it may come as no surprise to acknowledge that chemistry plays a dominant role. Without chemistry, the necessary scientific advances will simply not be made to meet these global challenges and to secure our future.

Chemistry is often viewed as demanding in its need for energy and natural resources. We have to ensure that chemistry is safe, efficient and, above all, sustainable – chemistry that is benign by design. Sustainability is an issue facing the entire global chemicals industry, our vision is to train a new generation of scientists to find innovative 'green' resource and energy efficient solutions that have the lowest possible environmental impact; demonstrate social responsibility; and make a positive contribution to economic growth.

This course builds upon our international track record in green chemistry, particularly in the fields of synthetic chemistry, catalysis, new technologies, materials science, process engineering and entrepeneurship. Course material covers all aspects of modern green and sustainable chemistry including feedstocks, energy, sustainable synthesis (including biocatalysis) and industrial process design. Formal lectures are complemented by a 60 credit project based in our world-leading research laboratories and designed to reinforce and apply many of the concepts delivered during lectures. This MSc programme is highly interdisciplinary. It capitalises on strong established links between Chemistry, the Faculty of Engineering, and the Nottingham Business School to provide both breadth and depth in the scope of the MSc degree.

Course details

The principle objective of this MSc Green and Sustainable Chemistry is to train the next generation of scientists to appreciate, assess and address the challenges of sustainability across chemistry using industries through the implementation of robust, innovative science and technology.

Candidates will, therefore, develop an excellent operating knowledge of contemporary methods of synthesis, analysis and process design optimized for both energy and reaction mass efficiency. Graduates will be equipped with the tools and experience to critically evaluate comparable reaction pathways and make evidenced decision in the design and execution of efficient chemical processes key to the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, fine chemical and other chemical using industries. Furthermore, upon completing this degree, students will be able to make effective use of electronic communication and information search & retrieval to facilitate the development and dissemination of key critical skills with which to assess and analyse complex problems.

Further information

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Do you want to unravel the fundamental processes in living cells? Do you want to understand 'life' at a molecular level? Do you want to explore applications based on basic molecular research?

Molecular Biology and Biotechnology are internationally oriented research and business areas that profit from a strong multidisciplinary knowledge on structural biology, biochemistry, molecular cell biology, genetics, microbiology and systems biology. During this programme, you acquire in-depth knowledge and skills via upperlevel theoretical and practical training. You become highly competent in the field of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, with excellent perspectives for an independent career in an academic or industrial research environment.

The programme is mainly organized by the Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute (GBB) and is closely related to research institute. Research is fundamental and curiosity-driven and contains specialisation in the following areas:
- Molecular Systems Biology
- Molecular Cell Biology of Complex Biological Processes
- Membrane Proteins
- Structure-function Relationships of Proteins
- Microbial Biotechnology and Biocatalysis
- Chemical and Synthetic Biology

Why in Groningen?

- Connected to research institute GBB, which maintains a strong international reputation and covers the field of systems, chemical, and synthetic biology
- Internationally oriented research and business area
- Excellent MSc students from Molecular Biology & Biotechnology may apply during their first year for the selective Top programme Biomolecular Sciences

Job perspectives

Biomolecular scientists, graduates of the Master's degree programme in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, can pursue a career in:
- PhD in the areas of Biomolecular Sciences, Life Science, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, and Bio(nano-)technology
- R&D position within Life Sciences Industry
- Scientific Advisor within a company

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This taught Masters prepares students for research and industry-based careers in biotechnology research and development. You will gain research experience and interdisciplinary training in state-of-the-art biomolecular and biochemical techniques. The programme is based in the Department of Biology, which is one of the UK’s top- ranked biological sciences departments for research, teaching and impact. Staff in the Centre for Novel Agriculture Products (CNAP) and Centre for Immunology and Infection (CII) contribute teaching, and research opportunities.

Key features

-Integrated training in modern recombinant DNA, fermentation and bioreactor technology
-Develop the skills to support an research or industry -based career across any area of modern biotechnology.

Taught modules

-Industrial Biotechnology
-Data Analysis and Programming in the Biosciences
-Research, Professional and Team Skills
-Optional modules include: Biocatalysis, Cell and Tissue Engineering, Bioremediation.

Research projects

Independent study module carried out as a placement either within the University or as an external placement. Recent external placement destinations include MicroLab Devices, Leeds; Cancer Research UK, London; Computomics GmbH & Co, Tübingen; and Forsite Diagnostics Ltd, York.

Research and transferable skills

-Appreciate the role of science in industry, eg commerce, IP issues and ethics
-Data analysis, programming and professional skills modules.

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Why this course?

The Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC) has launched this unique Masters in Industrial Biotechnology. IBioIC has committed to creating the next generation of skilled industrial biotechnologists.

The course meets industrial needs and is at the forefront of developments in science and engineering. It combines the expertise of staff from 13 academic institutions across Scotland. Our industrial partners also provide input to the course.

This is an exciting opportunity for science and engineering graduates who are looking for a career in an emerging industry that is sustainable, green and essential to the global economy.

The course will provide you with a strong foundation in basic industrial biotechnology. You’ll also cover advanced state-of-the-art topics in a wide range of industrial biotechnology-related areas. A three-month placement is offered, giving students the opportunity to gain valuable experience working with one of IBioIC’s industrial partners.

You’ll study

The taught classes are designed to give you a thorough understanding of the current developments in industrial biotechnology.

Two semesters of formal teaching are followed by an intensive research project. You'll carry this out with an industrial partner.

The taught classes cover the following areas and are taught by the following partners:

Core classes include:

• Industrial Biotechnology, Governance and Importance to the Bioeconomy (The Innogen Institute, Edinburgh University)
• Bioprocessing (Strathclyde University)
• Synthetic Biology (Glasgow University)
• Downstream Processing (Heriot Watt University)
• Applied Biocatalysis (Strathclyde University)
• Bioinformatics (Edinburgh University)
• Induction Scientific Programming (Edinburgh University)

Elective classes include:

• Blue Biotechnology (SAMS, University of Highlands & Islands)
• Renewable Energy Technologies (Abertay University)
• Advanced Project Management (Strathclyde University)
• Supply Chain Management (Strathclyde University)
• Production Management (Heriot Watt University)
• Resource Efficient Formulation (University of the West of Scotland)

Facilities

The Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS) offers an excellent environment for research and teaching. It is located in a new building with several laboratories. All are fitted with modern equipment.

Learning & teaching

Two semesters of formal teaching are followed by an intensive research project, carried out with an industrial partner.

Assessment

The final assessment will be based on performance in exams, coursework and the research project. If necessary there may be a formal oral exam.

Careers

The course provides an exciting opportunity for science and engineering graduates who are looking for a career in an emerging industry that is sustainable, green and essential to the global economy.

Our students enjoyed successful placements with the following companies:

• Qnostics
• GSK
• Xanthella
• SeaBioTech
• Marine Biopolymers
• AMT
• Ingenza
• Unilever
• Innogen
• CRODA
• CelluComp
• NCIMB

A total of 70% of our 2014 cohort have found full-time jobs or have undertaken further study as a result of the experience gained throughout their placement.

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The MSc in Catalysis is a one-year taught programme run by the School of Chemistry. It is designed to equip students and professionals who have a degree in Chemistry or a similar subject with a range of analytical, critical and communication skills.

Highlights

• Provides you with understanding of the science of catalysis in the context of its impacts on industry and academia. You will gain knowledge in all major branches of catalysis, including homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, organocatalysis, biocatalysis, asymmetric catalysis and ligand design.
• Skills acquired in the taught element will be applied in a short, intensive research project. This research-led teaching component is aligned with the interests of the School's world leading research groups.
• St Andrews has extensive expertise in catalysis research; this has been recognised by the award of the EPSRC Centre of Doctoral Training in Critical Resource Catalysis. Some of the specialised teaching is delivered in collaboration with this centre. 
• Students have access to major facilities across the full spectrum within the School of Chemistry, including X-ray crystallography, electron microscopy and NMR (both solution and solid state).

Teaching format

The course consists of two semesters of taught modules followed by a significant research project and dissertation (15,000 words) focused over the summer months.

Teaching methods include:

• seminars
• lectures
• tutorials
• practical laboratory work
• consultation sessions with supervisors.

Modules are assessed through coursework, written examinations, or a combination of both. Typical class sizes range from around 5 students for seminars and tutorials and around 40 students for lectures. 

Further particulars regarding curriculum development.

Modules

Students will take six compulsory modules during the course and choose three optional modules during Semester 1 and 2.

The modules in this programme have varying methods of delivery and assessment. For more details of each module, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the latest module catalogue which is for the 2017–2018 academic year; some elements may be subject to change for 2018 entry.

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