Program Overview
The Medicinal Chemistry program at LSMU and KTU combines chemistry, biology, and pharmacy to train students in drug discovery and development. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on training and research experience, preparing graduates for careers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnological industry. Students can specialize in either Biomedicinal Chemistry or Synthetic Medicinal Chemistry, with elective courses tailored to their interests. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of drug design principles, synthesis techniques, and biological processes, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills to contribute to the development of new and effective medicines.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Overview
The Medicinal Chemistry program is a joint study program offered by LSMU and Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) that focuses on the interdisciplinary field of drug discovery and development.
- Develop research skills necessary for careers in high-tech scientific and industrial companies focused on pharmaceutical design, production, or supply.
- Equip graduates with the knowledge and practical skills to apply in various areas, including targeted search, development, production, quality control, and distribution of medicinal substances.
Program Description
The curriculum delves into the chemical and biological aspects of drug discovery and development, fostering students' ability to analyze problems and design effective solutions within this complex field. Students gain a deep understanding of drug design principles, synthesis techniques, and characterization methods, while also exploring the biological processes and interactions that influence drug efficacy and safety. The program emphasizes hands-on training and research experience, preparing graduates for a diverse range of career opportunities in the pharmaceutical and biotechnological industry.
Outline
Year 1
- Selected Chapters of Organic Chemistry - Explores fundamental concepts of organic chemistry relevant to the field, such as molecular structure, functional groups, and reactivity.
- Spectroscopy of Organic Compounds - Provides students with the tools and knowledge for interpreting spectroscopic data, enabling them to understand the structure and properties of organic molecules.
- Analytical and Preparative Chromatography - Introduces techniques like thin-layer chromatography, column chromatography, and gas chromatography for separating and identifying various types of organic compounds. These skills are essential in pharmaceutical analysis and research.
- Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Chemistry - Explores natural sources of medicinal compounds, their extraction methods, and the fundamentals of their quality control. This course also delves into the development and production of natural products used in pharmaceuticals.
- Selected Chapters of Medicinal Chemistry - Introduces the fundamental concepts and principles of medicinal chemistry, focusing on drug discovery and development strategies.
- Development of Pharmaceuticals - Explores various stages involved in the development of new pharmaceutical products, from pre-clinical testing through clinical trials and regulatory approval processes. This course equips students with a real-world perspective of drug development challenges and opportunities.
- Pharmacology - Provides a thorough understanding of the interactions between drugs and living organisms, focusing on drug mechanisms, receptors, drug metabolism, and their therapeutic applications.
- Molecular Biology - Delves into the central dogma of molecular biology, exploring gene structure and expression, protein synthesis, and related molecular mechanisms. This knowledge helps understand drug targets at the molecular level, which is crucial in developing targeted therapies.
- Research Project 1 - This hands-on experience provides an opportunity for students to apply the acquired knowledge and skills to a research project. Students can choose a topic of their interest within medicinal chemistry or related fields and develop their independent research capabilities, culminating in a research report and presentation.
Year 2
- Extraction of Bioactive Natural Materials - Teaches advanced methods and techniques for extracting and isolating bioactive natural compounds. This knowledge is essential in harnessing the potential of natural resources for future pharmaceutical discoveries.
- Electives (Students choose electives based on their specialization: Biomedicinal Chemistry Study Line or Synthetic Medicinal Chemistry Study Line).
- Biomedicinal Chemistry Study Line:
- Biomolecular Chemistry and Interaction
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics
- Cellular Signaling
- Drug Design and Discovery of Synthetic and Biological Origin
- Medicinal Chemistry in Oncology
- Synthetic Medicinal Chemistry Study Line:
- Organic Synthesis in Drug Development
- Medicinal Chemistry of Heterocyclic Systems
- Computational Methods in Medicinal Chemistry
- Medicinal Chemistry in CNS Disorders
- Chemotherapy
- Research Project 2 - Provides another research experience, this time with more in-depth research and a deeper dive into a chosen area. This allows students to refine their research skills, gain further expertise in their field of interest, and contribute to scientific advancement.
Study Plan
The study plan for both Biomedicinal Chemistry and Synthetic Medicinal Chemistry Study Lines are provided in the context and include specific courses and elective options for each specialization. The plan highlights a comprehensive and thorough approach, covering diverse areas within medicinal chemistry to prepare graduates for successful careers.
Tuition fee (per year): €5,266
