ObjectivesTo equip biomedical/ life science graduate students with value-added skills which will enhance their understanding of, and technical expertise in, the drug discovery process. To enhance employability in the pharmaceutical industry.
Entry requirementspeople with a minimum 2:1 BSc first degree in biomedical/ life sciences or equivalent overseas qualifications, with evidence of significant knowledge of pharmacology.
Academic titleMSc Drug Discovery Skills
Course descriptionProgramme description
- BBSRC studentships and bursaries available
- Industry-based research project
- High employability factor
The programme is run by the Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics in conjunction with the pharmaceutical industry. Subjects covered include: target/lead identification, preclinical studies, clinical studies, regulatory affairs, intellectual property and pharmacokinetics/metabolism. Teaching methods include: seminars, hands-on practicals, workshops, and an industry-based research project. The standard and focus of the programme is maintained through an advisory board containing several representatives from industry.
Programme format and assessment
Teaching methods include: seminars, practicals, workshops, and an industry-based research project. The standard and focus of the programme is maintained through an advisory board containing several industry representatives. Assessment is via: written test; oral test/poster; essay; presentation; practical report; written exam; written diary; and a dissertation.
Programme modules for MSc Drug Discovery Skills
Case History of Drug Discovery (Core Module)
This component aims to: allow graduates to carry out an in-depth literature survey into the discovery and development of a known therapeutic agent or class of therapeutic agents; and allow graduates the opportunity to undertake an investigative project both as an individual and as part of a team.
Core Skill in Drug Discovery (Core Module)
This component aims to: provide graduates with practical and personal skills considered essential by the pharmaceutical industry in prospective employees who will be involved in drug discovery and development; provide practical experience in, and an understanding of, the major experimental techniques used in the design and discovery of new drugs; and develop scientists who possess key skills required for independent evaluation of information and for the presentation of scientific data.
Research Project in Drug Discovery (Core Module)
This component aims to: develop scientists who are focussed on drug discovery and development and who possess the key skills required for independen evaluation of data, for critical evaluation of the scientific literature, and for the writing of scientific reports; and develop scientists who are capable of completing a research project investigating drug action and/or development, and presenting this knowledge in a Masters level dissertation.
Seminars in Drug Discovery (Core Module)
This component aims to: provide graduates with an in-depth understanding of the procedures and practices employed within the pharmaceutical industry in the discovery and development of new drugs; and expose graduates to experts from the pharmaceutical industry to facilitate discussion of topics of importance relating to drug discovery.