ObjectivesThis course allows you to • gain knowledge and practical skills to operate commonly used analytical laboratory instruments • become familiar with automated approaches to analysis and process analytical technology • apply good experimental design techniques and use statistical methods for data evaluation • develop your validated analysis methods for determining chemical compounds and elements in a range of samples • understand the principles and practice of laboratory quality systems • interpret mass spectra and nuclear magnetic resonance data
Entry requirementsEntry requirements Normally one of the following • an honours degree in a biological or chemical science area, or equivalent • a professional qualification of equivalent standing to the above, for example MIBiol by examination, FIMLS • other qualifications such as an HND, HNC or unclassified degree in a biological subject plus significant relevant work experience You must also be proficient in English, typically shown by IELTS level 6.0 or 235 on TOEFL or equivalents for non-native English speakers.
Course descriptionPharmaceutical analysis is vital for successful drug development. It is used to determine a drug’s structure, level of active ingredient and to identify contaminants.
Pharmaceutical analysts use a range of techniques to examine the constituents of various samples throughout the drug development process. These samples include raw materials used in manufacturing and body fluids collected during drug trials.
As an analyst you must be familiar with the principles of modern instrumental analytical techniques, approaches and pharmacology. Regulation demands that you work under a strict quality assurance and quality control regime.
We designed the course in close consultation with the pharmaceutical industry. Recognised industrial practitioners deliver some of the modules.
All practical training takes place in our recently refurbished and highly-equipped laboratories.
You can take course modules individually as short courses.
Associated careers
This course improves your career prospects in areas such as • pharmaceutical research and drug development • medical research in universities and hospitals • care products • biotechnology companies • government research agencies.
It also provides you with the training and knowledge to go on to research at PhD level in pharmacology, biotechnology and analytical science.
Course content
Core modules
• advanced analytical techniques • separation, detection and online techniques • quality issues, laboratory accreditation and analytical approach • new drug development • statistics for experimental design and analysis • research methods • pharmaceutical preparations, sample pre-treatment and analysis • research project
Options
• toxicology • industrial and health biotechnology • process analytical technology