ObjectivesWith the increase in undergraduate degrees offering the MChem qualification, both the MSc Chemical Research and the MRes Chemistry allow a BSc graduate to obtain an enhanced qualification with a view to better employment prospects. Both programmes are suited to those who wish to proceed to PhD training, in particular the MRes Chemistry with its emphasis on training in research and large projects. A Masters degree is recognised throughout the expanded EU.
Entry requirementsThese programmes are designed for candidates, usually with a first degree in chemistry or a related discipline, who wish to undergo further training in chemistry, often with a view to a subsequent PhD. In some cases it may be possible to undertake the project in industry. It is an entry point for overseas students into the UK academic system.
Academic titleMRes in Chemistry/MSC Chemical Research
Course descriptionThe MSc in Chemical Research comprises a 50 per cent taught programme (six modules, each of about 20-25 contact hours and 125-130 self-study hours) and a 50 per cent advanced project.
The MRes in Chemistry comprises a 25 per cent taught programme (three modules, each of about 20-25 contact hours and 125-130 self-study hours) and a 75 per cent advanced project.
Project themes will be offered, or may be suggested by the student, either in advance or during the first few weeks of the programme. They will relate to the research interests of academic staff and cover a wide range of chemistry topics.
MRes in Chemistry/MSC Chemical Research Module overview
Most modules are common to both the MSc Chemical Research and the MRes Chemistry; some are compulsory and others are optional. They include:
Advanced Spectroscopic Methods
The aim of this module is to provide the student with a knowledge of the advanced spectroscopic methods and techniques that are widely used in chemistry at the research level. Techniques covered include X-ray crystallographic structures of single crystals and of powders, design of NMR experiments, and the latest developments in MS, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy.
Management, Communication and IT Skills
The aim of this module is to develop these skills, as well as general research skills (design of experiments, treatment of data). Content includes the various ways to obtain scientific information (for example, chem abstracts, web of science, databases, scientific search engines) particularly by use of IT, detailed literature surveys, writing of articles and presentation of talks, design of experiments, the management implications of research, basic legal (and safety, environmental, and so on) aspects of research, and appropriate methods for data treatment.
Analysis, Sensors and Chromatographic Methods
This is a lecture/practical/workshop-based module covering methods in organic, inorganic, polymer and biological chemistry. Content includes: selection of appropriate techniques in analysis; sensors for analysis (especially in biological chemistry); chromatographic techniques available for the detection, isolation, purification and quantification of chemical species.
Simulation Techniques in Chemistry
This module covers background knowledge of modern molecular modelling, molecular orbital methods, ab initio quantum chemistry packages, modern applications of theory in chemistry, and Spartan and Gaussian for organic chemical calculations.
Advanced Nanochemistry and Nanotechnology
This module includes coverage of colloids, sol-gels, particle size metallic materials nano-engineered products, nanocomposites, hybrids, polymers for reagents and synthesis, dendrimers, peptide, and nanostructured organic materials.
Advanced Organic Chemistry
This module covers retrosynthetic analysis; asymmetric synthesis (definitions and overview, chiral reagents and auxiliaries, chiral catalysts); new reactions using metal catalysis (concepts, mechanistic implications, examples of industrial relevance, Heck, Suzuki, hydroformylation, Pauson Khand); efficient organic synthesis (multicomponent and cascade reactions); solid phase synthesis and chemical libraries; alternative reaction conditions (ultrasound, microwave, solvents); biotechnology.