Analytical bioscience - the investigation of biomolecules as exploitable biomarkers - is a growing field, driven by improving analytical methods with increasing sensitivity. Following completion of the Human Genome Project, the pharmaceutical industry is preparing for a revolution in cancer and inherited disorder therapies.
This course is training a new generation of bioscientists to meet challenges at the interface between biology and chemistry, and to apply pharmaceutical and analytical knowledge directly to improve quality of life.
This course is designed to enable you to gain a systematic knowledge, critical awareness of current problems and new insights regarding the analysis of biomolecules. There is particular reference to drug design and discovery, along with a comprehensive and critical understanding of applied techniques and their current application in research in the field of biomolecule analysis and drug design.
Semester 1
The course has both full-time and part-time routes which, for the MSc, comprises three 14-week semesters or five 14-week semesters, which you can take within one or three years respectively:
For the full-time study option:
Semester 1 - September to February
Semester 2 - February to June
Semester 3 - June to September
Semester 1
Research and Analytical Methods (30 credits)
This module aims to provide you with knowledge and understanding of the current principles of analytical bioscience and the applications of separation science. You will also learn the necessary skills to undertake a research project.
close
Molecular Modelling and Drug Design (30 credits)
The aim of this module is to examine the modern aspects of drug design from assessing the appropriateness of solutions to common pharmaceutical and biotechnological problems, to the discovery and development of new drugs.
It will enable you to explain and discuss the principles of rational drug design. You will obtain a high level of understanding of current practices in molecular modelling and the application of these techniques in modern day situations.
close
Semester 2
Natural Products, Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (30 credits)
The aim of this module is to provide a sound knowledge of the importance of natural products. You will be introduced to the subject of biosynthesis and will develop your knowledge of anticancer agents and their mode of action - with an emphasis on those derived from natural sources.
close
Spectroscopy and Spectrometry (30 credits)
This module aims to provide a detailed knowledge and understanding of the principles of spectroscopy and mass spectrometry techniques and their application to molecular and biomolecular characterisation.
close
Semester 3
Dissertation (60 credits)
The Dissertation aims to provide a mechanism to allow the development of your experimental and investigative skills with subject specific aims in the area of analytical bioscience and drug design and objectives being dependent on the project undertaken.
Examples of Staff Research Interests:
- Biotechnology: plant and insect biotechnology
- Biofuels and enzyme discovery
- Cancer Studies: DNA repair mechanisms, function of DNA glycosylases, protein – protein interactions
- Cancer Studies: glycobiology, anticancer drugs
- Parasitology and Diseases: microbiology, bacteriology, microbial pathogenicity, MRSA, antibiotics, antimicrobials
- Synthetic organic and medicinal chemistry: free radical chemistry, asymmetric synthesis of anticancer agents
- Development of spectrometry-based techniques to measure biomarkers of DNA, protein and lipid damage and DNA repair
- Pharmacology: biological evaluation of novel anticancer agents
- Drug Design, medicinal and organic chemistry: design and synthesis of anticancer drugs.Natural Products: Isolation and evaluation
close
