Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry

Chemistry with medicinal chemistry is a degree that provides thorough training in the core branches of chemistry while specialising in the areas most relevant to the design and development of drugs and other biologically active compounds. Medicinal chemistry sits at the boundary of chemistry, biology, and pharmacology, asking how molecular structure determines biological activity, how new medicines are designed and developed, and how the properties of candidate compounds are optimised for safety, selectivity, and efficacy. It is a discipline of immense practical importance and growing scientific sophistication.

At the University of Glasgow, this five-year full-time programme provides a thorough training in the main branches of chemistry alongside concentrated study of the areas of medicinal chemistry and pharmacology most relevant to research with medicinal and other biologically active compounds. The degree includes a European placement, giving you experience of working in a chemistry or pharmaceutical environment in Europe, combining professional development with the international exposure that the global nature of the pharmaceutical industry demands. You will develop expertise in organic synthesis, physical chemistry, analytical techniques, and the specific molecular and biological knowledge that medicinal chemistry requires.

Graduates in chemistry with medicinal chemistry are well placed for careers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, including drug discovery and development, chemical synthesis, pharmacology research, quality control, and regulatory affairs. Many go on to postgraduate study in medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, pharmacology, or a related discipline, pursuing doctoral research that takes them to the research frontier of the field. The combination of rigorous chemical training and specialist biological knowledge is also valued in academic research, clinical trials, and scientific consultancy.