Course description
MSc Pharmacology
Modules
1. Molecular Biology and DNA Technology
This module concerns the latest advances in and techniques used for the study of information flow in organisms, and concentrates on applications of DNA technology in gene therapy, analysis of gene expression and topical research areas.
2. Cell Culture and Antibody Technology
In this module you will study production, maintenance and applications of animal cell cultures and antibodies (both monoclonal and polyclonal), and the use of immunochemical techniques (e.g. ELISA, Western blotting and immunocytochemistry) for analysis and therapy. You will also investigate the use of cellular systems for the study of mechanisms of toxicity and cell signalling pathways.
3. Enzyme Technology and Biocatalysis
This module investigates the commercial application of enzymes, enzyme purification and the theoretical background to enzyme activity in free, immobilised and whole cell preparations, and in extreme environments such as at high temperature and in non-aqueous reactors. Future industrial applications of biocatalysts, modification of enzymes as diagnostic tools and biosensors are also covered.
4. Business and Bioethics
In this module you will look at key commercial and ethical issues in research and development in the fields of applied bioscience. Working as a member of a team, you will take such issues into consideration in the formulation of a business plan designed to promote a specific project for commercial development.
5. Research Methods
In this module you will develop your skills in the use of software packages for statistical analysis of data. You will learn how to plan, write and deliver oral presentations and research proposals. There will also be sessions involving critical appraisal of scientific papers and the preparation of poster presentations.
6. Special Topics in Molecular Biology
In this module you will undertake a series of integrative practical classes that brings together areas of knowledge gained in Cell Culture &Antibody Technology and Molecular Biology &DNA Technology. You will also take a detailed look at specific applications of molecular approaches in plant and fungal biotechnology.
7. Pharmacology
This module is suitable if you who wish to study the link between molecular cell biology and pharmacological approaches in drug development and in the study of drug action. It examines in detail a variety of classical and modern pharmacological techniques used in drug development and in the treatment of disease.
8. Research Project
The course is completed with a five-month laboratory based research project. You may carry out the work either in the School or in another academic or industrial research laboratory in the UK or abroad, subject to approval by the Course Team.
You may prefer to take a shorter programme of study. If you take modules 1 to 7 you will be eligible for a PGDip in Molecular Cell Biology.
Assessment
Modules 1-7 are assessed by a variety of different types of course work including written assignments, oral presentations and poster presentations, and examinations. The Research Project will involve the design, implementation and reporting of a major research task.
Study routes
This course will be delivered through lectures, laboratory classes, demonstrations, computer packages, and project work. We have state-of-the-art lecture, computing, library and laboratory facilities.
There will be various support mechanisms to help and advise you, including email contact with all tutors, a virtual learning environment for course information and messages, and pastoral support from our International Co-ordinator and Postgraduate Courses Administrator. The University offers an induction programme for international students, and English language classes if required.
Reasons to choose this course
This course is ideal if you:
* are a recently qualified undergraduate and are looking for the professional skills needed to obtain a job in a pharmaceutical company
* are working in an organisation and want a masters-level qualification to give you a competitive edge
* require the skills and experience needed to study for a research degree
* are an international student who would like to study abroad
* would like a course delivered by experienced research academics, with the possibility of completing a research project in industry
