MChem (Hons) Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry Integrated Master's degree at Keele University

A professional, modern chemist requires a range of specialist skills, which you will begin to develop in this module. In the laboratory you will learn a range of experimental synthetic and analytical techniques and be trained in how to prepare and run your own samples on UV-vis, IR and NMR spectrometers and process and interpret spectra. There is a focus on transferable employability skills emphasising communication (oral and written), chemical safety, professional note taking, sustainable labor

This module answers questions about why atoms bond, how we can predict reactivity, and how we can measure and observe chemical reactions. It teaches core chemical principles, models and vocabulary essential for understanding atomic and molecular structure, physicochemical properties, chemical bonding, spectroscopy and reactivity. Learning activities support knowledge, understanding, problem-solving and information literacy skills.

This module spans the breadth of the chemical sciences and complementary disciplines, exploring the chemical basis of human biology and materials science and developing transferable skills in scientific programming and statistics. Learning activities include focused chemistry case studies and are designed to initiate progress towards Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on team working, problem-solving and independent research skills.

Chemistry is critical to transformations from a linear economy to a circular one, combatting environmental degradation, and ensuring a sustainable future. This module takes a systems thinking approach to tackle the complexity of these challenges and focuses on the role of chemistry in working towards solutions.

This module considers the role that the Natural Sciences can play in the resolution of major challenges facing society. You will have opportunities to apply foundational knowledge and skills to specific problems and societal challenges introduced through the Grand Challenges lecture series. You will also develop information literacy, oral presentation, academic writing and reading skills, and problem-solving skills.

The practical and professional skills developed at level 4 will be broadened and enhanced. You will study new more advanced lab skills required for the synthesis of molecules. You will collect data and compare it with theoretical models, using advanced functions of Excel and error analysis. You will develop your ability to professionally record, analyse and communicate findings, and develop further employability and entrepreneurship skills through an industrial chemistry-themed group project.

Your fundamental understanding of core chemical principles developed at level 4 will be further developed with deeper exploration of key techniques, principles and quantitative models in organic, inorganic and physical chemistry. You will gain advanced competency in essential chemical concepts which underpin modern applications and practices in the rest of the programme.

You will gain experience with modern spectroscopic and analytical techniques, focusing on their use in environmental analysis. Techniques include analytical chromatography, mass spectrometry and multinuclear NMR. You will gain hands-on experience in using these techniques in the lab, as well as professional data analysis, interpretation and presentation.

This module introduces the fundamental basis of medicinal chemistry in a multi-faceted exploration of the chemistry of enzymes. You will develop understanding in heterocyclic chemistry as a key component of enzymes and a route to their chemical inhibition, explore the physical chemistry of enzyme catalysis, and discover the coordination chemistry dictating the core function of metalloenzymes.

This module explores the interaction of small molecules with biological targets and applies this to the design of drug molecules. Topics are presented with case studies and interactive workshops, using on-line resources such as the Protein Data Bank and docking software. The module culminates in a drug design exercise where you work as a team to take a molecule through iterative stages of optimisation.

You will learn about the chemistry and structure of solids and how solid-state processes can be manipulated to store, convert and deliver energy in modern batteries and fuel cells. You will gain hands-on experience processing and interpreting X-ray diffraction data.