Chemical Research (MRes)

This postgraduate degree in chemical research will provide you with the skills and knowledge to carry out novel research in your chosen area of chemistry. You will join an existing research group under the guidance of a research supervisor, spending the majority of time on a research project. This can be in any of the department’s current research areas that include some reference to chemical and biological sciences. The remaining part of the degree is spent following advanced lecture courses that will provide the necessary theoretical and technical background to your chosen research area.

This programme is intended for students who want to gain the qualifications necessary for pursuing a research career, or who want to update their existing training.

On successful completion of this programme, you will understand the theoretical background required to undertake research in a given topic and be able to explain relevant research methods and tools. You will have acquired a firm grasp of recent advances in your field of study and be able to formulate a research or method development plan and carry out the appropriate literature and data searches. You will also be able to apply a critical and professional approach to data quality, carry out chemical manipulations and operate advanced equipment and work safely and efficiently in a laboratory, carrying out risk assessments where appropriate.

This is a laboratory-based subject, which means individual contact between staff and students is frequent. Numerous opportunities exist and are created for you to comment on, and to take responsibility for, the direction of your studies.

By accommodating you in an established research group and requiring you to partake in group activities, including research colloquia and presentations, the programme aims to provide training in the transferable skills required for successful research. It is individually tailored for each student and arranged by the research supervisor.

Visit the Chemical Research (MRes) page on the Birkbeck, University of London website for more details!