BSc (Hons) Pharmacology Bachelor's degree at Keele University

Explore fundamental concepts in understanding the structure and function of biological molecules, from the three-dimensional structure of proteins and the activity of enzymes to the progress and organisation of major metabolic pathways. Develop key skills in data analysis, presentation and communication through laboratory investigations in enzyme kinetics.

Introduction to the major physiological systems and anatomical structures of the human organism, including the digestive, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. Explore how different pathologies can develop as a result of dysfunction in these systems and their impact. Develop key skills in teamwork and leadership through group-based activities.

Introduce processes by which pharmaceuticals enter the market covering the stages involved from pre-clinical candidate selection and development, through to clinical trials. Core principles in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics will be introduced and an understanding of the physiko-chemical properties of drug molecules highlighted. Consider specific examples of drugs/ligands and target binding interactions, including receptor pharmacology, supported with small group case-based learning tutori

Introduction to the fundamentals of molecular cell biology. Explore how genetic information is stored, replicated and processed; the roles played by nucleic acids in the production of proteins; how proteins get to their final locations within cells and how cells interact with each other and communicate to co-ordinate their activities. Develop key skills in the presentation and communication of information in various formats.

Develop a range of core practical laboratory skills, applying theoretical concepts from across your programme and deepening your understanding of the subject through hypothesis-driven practical investigation. Additional workshops support development of wider academic skills, including effective study practice, data analysis and communication. Aspirational career talks and employability skills workshops.

Explore how we can study and manipulate genetic material, including sequencing technologies, gene cloning, and genetic engineering. Learn how these techniques can be used to study the structure and function of single genes and proteins, design and engineer DNA molecules, and produce novel gene products such as therapeutic drugs. Develop skills in introductory bioinformatics and insights into important ethical principles.

Examine the specialisation and interdependence of metabolism exploring key aspects of metabolic regulation, and issues surrounding its changes in inherited and acquired disease (including hypertension, metabolic disease, and cardiovascular disease). Learn how these conditions can be investigated experimentally and modified through relevant pharmacological approaches. Develop communication and teamwork skills through tutorials, workshops, and active group discussion sessions.

Continue to develop understanding of the delivery, potency and mode of action of select pharmacological agents, applied specifically to selective or targeted toxicity, e.g. in the treatment of cancer, microbial and viral infection. Introduction to the application of pharmacology in agricultural settings, e.g. pesticides and their potential impact on human health and disease. Supported by lab practicals and tutorials.

Investigate the effects of neurological medications including basic principles of neuropharmacology and molecular mechanisms, and put these in context with wider disciplines such as population health, health economics, and neuroanatomy. Evaluate advances made in neuropharmacology towards precision therapy and personalised medicine in recent years.

Explore how cells communicate with each other, including the major classes of signalling molecules, different receptor types, and their mode of action. Evaluate how dysregulation of cellular communication contributes to different disease states, and how these pathways can be targeted for therapeutic intervention.

Bring together skills of experimental design and data analysis which are a vital step in the process of scientific research. Explore the different forms of scientific experimental design that you may encounter in your final year experimental projects. Hone data analysis skills essential in your final year and onwards into postgraduate study or employment.

Expand practical skills through enquiry-based, hypothesis-driven laboratory investigations applying key skills and competencies to more advanced molecular and analytical techniques. Develop higher-level skills in the acquisition and analysis of information from online sources, including journal databases and generative AI. Support in evaluating career readiness with employability skills-focused workshops.

Explore how our immune system develops, the cellular basis of our immune response, and gain functional insights into immune protein and pathogen structure. Develop key skills in data analysis, reporting the outcomes of laboratory investigations using immunotechniques, and explore the Protein Data Bank.

Explore a range of pathogenic organisms and the diseases they cause. Consider approaches to treatment and management of disease, ranging from development of novel antimicrobials to vaccination strategies, and the use of select viruses and microorganisms as research tools. Develop key skills in literature analysis and communicating to different audiences.

Follow the pathway of a drug substance through the body, including key areas of pharmaceutics, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. Lectures and problem classes complemented with topical case studies highlighting recent developments in the pharmaceutical industry. Mini-symposia exploring a range of drug classes where you prepare and deliver an oral presentation.

Further explore the drug development pipeline with a focus on the translation of drugs from pre-clinical studies and clinical trials to clinical practice and associated ethical and regulatory frameworks, including patient demographics and personalised medicine. Assess potential toxicity, poisoning, or adverse interactions of drugs derived from herbal products or traditional medicine.

Develop higher-level skills in the analysis and evaluation of primary research articles in pharmacology, developing your analytical skills and wider understanding of the mechanisms of drug action, pharmacokinetics and ligand-target binding interactions. Further develop communication skills in a number of formats.

Carry out a substantial piece of meaningful research, drawing together skills in experimental study design, critical interpretation of data, and professional competencies. Choose from a range of projects depending on your interests/career ambitions, including lab- or field-based research, systematic reviews, bioinformatics, teaching and learning, or outreach. Culminates in a student conference.

Develop skillsets needed to communicate effectively to diverse audiences. Explore a range of communication methods to present and disseminate findings to inform and enthuse both scientific and lay audiences. Develop a suite of valuable transferrable skills for the employment market.

Gain hands-on experience, enhance your employability skills, and provide valuable insights into the professional world. Be supported via a range of activities to secure a role and source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles. Built-in flexibility on when and how you complete your placement.