Organic Chemistry Drug Discovery

The Organic Chemistry: Drug Discovery MRes at UCL offers students the opportunity to follow an integrated course of research and interdisciplinary study. Students gain outstanding training in synthetic organic chemistry applied to drug design, together with a breadth of experience in several areas of synthetic methodology and chemical biology.

The programme provides a thorough foundation in drug design, advanced organic synthesis and molecular modelling, together with modules on research techniques, professional development and entrepreneurship. Students will carry out a substantial research project on organic/medicinal chemistry or chemical biology over a ten-month period.

MRes students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two modules from the Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research (30 credits), one Master's level chemistry module (15 credits) two transferable/research skills modules (30 credits) and the research project (105 credits).

Core modules

Students take 30 credits of transferable/research skills and submit a research dissertation (105 credits).

• Transferable/Research Skills
• Research Dissertation

Optional modules

Students take 45 credits from the following options:

• Bioinformatics
• Target Identification
• Cheminformatics
• Biological Molecules
• Biophysical Screening
• Fragment Based Drug Design
• Target Selection (Scientific)
• Target Selection (Commercial)
• Principles of Drug Design
• Biological Chemistry
• Stereochemical Control in Asymmetric Synthesis
• Synthesis and Biosynthesis of Natural Products
• Organometallics and Catalysis
• Structural Methods in Modern Chemistry

Dissertation/report

Students will undertake a laboratory-based research project lasting ten months. An interim report is submitted after five months, and at the end of the project each student writes a dissertation, gives a short presentation and has a viva voce examination.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, problem classes, workshops and projects. Assessment is through unseen written examination, coursework, project reports and presentations.

A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The financing of the Organic Chemistry Drug Discovery MSc programme at University College London is designed to accommodate a diverse range of students with various financial backgrounds. The programme offers several funding options to support both domestic and international students in covering tuition fees and living expenses during their studies. Tuition fees for UK and EU students are set annually and are published on the university’s official website, with currently available figures reflecting recent academic years. International students typically pay higher tuition fees, and these are also updated annually. Students are encouraged to explore scholarships, bursaries, and grants offered directly by University College London, which include merit-based awards for outstanding applicants and need-based support for students demonstrating financial hardship. External funding sources such as government sponsorships, research councils, and private scholarships are also available and should be researched in advance to ensure application deadlines are met. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on applying for funding, managing student loans, and planning personal budgets. Additionally, the UK government offers postgraduate loans for eligible students, which can be used to finance tuition and living costs. Prospective students are advised to consult the university’s official financial support pages for the latest information on funding opportunities, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. It’s important for students to start planning their finances early, taking into account the total cost of attendance, including tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and daily living expenses. UCL also promotes financial literacy among its students through workshops and advice services to help them effectively manage their finances throughout their academic journey. International students might also explore work opportunities on or off-campus within the legal restrictions to supplement their income. Overall, the University College London strives to make its Organic Chemistry Drug Discovery MSc programme accessible through a comprehensive range of financial support options, aiming to reduce financial barriers and enable students to focus on their academic and research pursuits in the field of drug discovery and organic chemistry.

The MSc in Organic Chemistry and Drug Discovery at University College London (UCL) is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to prepare students for a career in pharmaceutical research, chemical synthesis, and drug development. This program combines advanced knowledge of organic chemistry with practical skills necessary for designing and synthesizing new molecules with potential medicinal properties. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including modern methodologies in organic synthesis, structure-activity relationships, drug design principles, and techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and computational modeling. The curriculum emphasizes the translation of chemical concepts into real-world applications, with particular focus on the discovery and development of new pharmaceuticals.

Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to engage in practical laboratory work, learning to operate state-of-the-art instrumentation and techniques used in drug discovery research. The program also includes lectures, seminars, and project work that foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and innovation in chemical research. Students are encouraged to collaborate with industry partners and research groups, gaining valuable experience in collaborative and interdisciplinary settings.

Career prospects for graduates of this program are extensive, including roles in pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, research institutions, and regulatory authorities. The program aims to equip students with not only technical expertise but also with skills in communication, teamwork, and project management, preparing them for competitive careers in science and industry. UCL’s strong links with the pharmaceutical sector provide excellent opportunities for networking, internships, and employment after graduation. The MSc program can also serve as a foundation for further research, such as PhD studies, in the fields of medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, or related disciplines.

The program duration typically spans one year full-time or two years part-time, accommodating students from diverse academic backgrounds. Entry requirements generally include a relevant undergraduate degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or related fields, along with proficiency in English. The university’s vibrant research environment, extensive laboratory facilities, and expert faculty members make it an ideal place for aspiring chemists dedicated to making impactful contributions to drug discovery and development.