Program Overview
This MSc program in Drug Discovery, Design and Synthesis is designed to prepare students for careers as drug discovery chemists in the pharmaceutical industry. With a focus on hands-on experience and collaboration with industry leaders, the program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this rapidly evolving field. The program's unique features include access to state-of-the-art facilities and integration of industry perspectives through guest speakers.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This MSc program in Drug Discovery, Design and Synthesis is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in the pharmaceutical industry as drug discovery chemists. The program aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to excel in this field.
Objectives:
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of drug design and organic synthesis.
- Develop practical laboratory skills essential for working in medicinal chemistry.
- Acquire hands-on experience in data analysis and interpretation.
- Understand the significance of patent law in protecting novel drug discoveries.
- Learn from industry leaders with experience in both start-up companies and large pharmaceutical firms.
Program Description:
The program offers a blend of theoretical and practical learning, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experience. Students will benefit from the expertise of chemists whose world-leading research informs their teaching. The program has strong ties to the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre, providing access to state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced research equipment, including NMR spectrometers and x-ray crystallography diffractometers.
Outline:
Content:
Course Schedule:
- Autumn Teaching:
- Advanced Drug Discovery and Chemical Enterprise
- Advanced Green Chemistry and Organic Synthesis
- Principles and Practices in Drug Discovery and Delivery
- Transferable Skills and Employability
- Spring Teaching:
- Organic Synthesis for Medicines and Natural Products
- Sustainable Synthesis and Catalysis
- Spring and Summer Teaching:
- Drug Discovery Research Project
Individual Modules:
- Advanced Drug Discovery and Chemical Enterprise: This module delves into the intricacies of drug discovery, exploring the chemical and biological aspects of drug development.
- Transferable Skills and Employability: This module equips students with essential transferable skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, crucial for success in any career path.
- Organic Synthesis for Medicines and Natural Products: This module explores the synthesis of organic molecules with medicinal properties, including natural products and synthetic drugs.
- Sustainable Synthesis and Catalysis: This module focuses on sustainable and efficient synthetic methods, utilizing catalysis to minimize waste and maximize efficiency.
- Drug Discovery Research Project: This module provides students with the opportunity to conduct independent research in drug discovery, applying their knowledge and skills to real-world challenges.
Assessment:
Methods:
- Portfolio completion
- Examinations
- Short written reports
- Presentations and coursework problem sheets
- Multiple-choice questions and quizzes
Criteria:
- Demonstrated understanding of drug discovery principles and practices.
- Proficiency in laboratory techniques and data analysis.
- Ability to communicate research findings effectively.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Teaching:
Methods:
- Lectures: Provide theoretical knowledge of drug discovery.
- Small-class workshops: Facilitate independent and collaborative problem-solving.
- Laboratories: Offer hands-on experience in drug discovery techniques.
- Seminars: Feature external speakers, both in person and online, exposing students to diverse perspectives and industry trends.
Faculty:
The program is taught by experts in their field, with strong links to the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre. Students will have the opportunity to interact with external guest speakers from multinational and start-up companies, building a valuable network of contacts.
Unique Approaches:
- Strong emphasis on practical laboratory experience.
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Integration of industry perspectives through guest speakers.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Medicinal chemist in pharmaceutical companies.
- Research scientist in academia or industry.
- Healthcare professional.
- Medical writer.
- Patent lawyer.
- Teacher.
Opportunities:
The program provides students with the knowledge and skills to pursue a variety of career paths in the pharmaceutical industry and related fields.
Outcomes:
Graduates will be well-prepared to work in an agile and fast-paced medicinal chemistry environment, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and network of contacts to launch successful careers.
Other:
- The program emphasizes the importance of patent law in protecting novel drug discoveries.
- The program provides students with the opportunity to work closely with research groups during their research project.
- The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their learning to their individual interests and career goals.
- The program is regularly reviewed to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, and the latest research and teaching methodologies.
