Medicinal and Biological Chemistry (MSc)

Programme description

Medicinal and Biological Chemistry requires a thorough understanding of molecules, their structures, properties and synthesis, but it also demands the chemical understanding of the nature of biological structures, from macromolecules to cells, the design of pharmaceutical materials in the laboratory and their function in clinical settings.

The knowledge and skills acquired in the course will leave graduates well equipped to compete for positions related to 'drug discovery' in chemical, pharmaceutical or biotechnological companies.

The degree consists of advanced lecture courses in:

• Synthetic Organic Chemistry
• Chemical Biology
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Biophysical Chemistry

These are studied concurrently with a predominantly practical based course offering an introduction to research methods.

Students then proceed to a period of full-time research project work, leading to the submission of their Masters dissertation.

Programme structure

Lectures are given by leading researchers in the area of medicinal and biological chemistry.

The lecture courses are supported by tutorial sessions and assessed by examination in May.

The Introduction to Research Methods course includes an exciting problem solving exercise where you learn important skills such as Communicating Science, Innovation, Dealing with Intellectual Property and Grant Application Writing, together with a literature survey and written report, defining the scope of the subsequent individual research project work.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, students should have developed a depth of comprehension and critique in the core elements of their subject area, including:

• critical analysis and management of data;
• judging the relationship between theory and methodology;
• assessment of the appropriate methods of data collection/analysis to address the research question;
• assessment of relevance of previous studies;
• critical thinking.

Additionally they will have enhanced their professional/practical skills through:

• experience of research design and management;
• advanced instrumentation or techniques;
• production of scientific reports.

Students will also have the opportunity to develop transferable skills such as:

• written, visual and oral delivery and dissemination of research findings;
• interpersonal and communication skills;
• computing proficiency;
• organisation skills.

Career opportunities

Graduates are well suited to take up roles in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, either in research and development or sales and marketing. You will gain valuable work experience in a real-life research environment.

Alternatively, a Masters degree is a precursor to a PhD degree.

Our courses teach students the valuable skills they need to also move into other areas outside chemistry. Careers in IT, management or finance are possibilities after completing your degree.

Visit the Medicinal and Biological Chemistry (MSc) page on the University of Edinburgh website for more details!