medicinal chemistry phd uk

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Medicinal Chemistry

Medicinal chemistry (including pharmacology; pharmaceutical science; analytical biochemistry).

PhD / MPhil

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Research in Medicinal Chemistry at Keele includes the design, synthesis, evaluation and use of biologically-active molecules with the potential for use as drugs in a clinical setting. Also included is the extraction, purification and characterisation of potential therapeutic agents from natural sources, particularly plants (a discipline often referred to as Pharmacognosy).

Student testimonials

Medicinal chemistry is multidisciplinary in nature encompassing research in computation and informatics, synthetic organic chemistry, analytical science, clinical and analytical biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, pharmaceutics and formulation science, and a wide range of other topics. Collaboration and translation are essential for drug discovery teams to be successful and medicinal chemists collaborate with other researchers from Keele University, other universities and institutions within the UK and internationally.

A wide range of research facilities and state-of-the-art equipment are available in purpose-built laboratories in the Huxley Building, the Lennard-Jones Laboratories, the Jack Ashley Building and the Guy Hilton Research Centre (Hartshill, Hospital site).

Research interests

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PhD Opportunities at the Institute of Pharmaceutical Science

About our postgraduate research studies.

The Institute of Pharmaceutical Science (IPS) is an enabling and rich environment for students to undertake their postgraduate research studies. Across the three research groups of Drug Discovery, Medicines Development, and Medicines Use; we have approximately 100 students on 3, 3+1, and 4-year track PhD programmes.

Most of our PhD students are embedded on one site, engendering an environment of engagement (student led seminars, social activities, annual symposium day), interdisciplinary curiosity, and experience of cutting edge and diverse methodology platforms. This results in a unique, strong and exciting research journey.

The research experience of our PhD students can be further strengthened from competitive internal funds to allow you to travel to learn techniques in collaborator labs, or funds for conference participation from the Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine and the Centre for Doctoral Studies.

• Drug Discovery
• Medicines Development
• Medicines Use

Types of Scholarships

Our PGR student body is international and this is reflected in the diversity of routes by which our students are funded. King's has annual application rounds of certain initiatives such as Medical Research Council- Doctoral Training Programme (MRC-DTP), London Interdisciplinary Doctoral Partnership funded by BBSRC (LIDo-DTP), and the King’s-China Scholarship Council (K-CSC).

Other PGR students may be funded by Industry, foreign government organisations, or self-funded. Some programmes have specific application procedures that must be adhered to and can be found below with particular timelines during the year.

If you need help discussing a research project you have seen advertised, or you need help in devising a research project but are unsure who might be the best person to supervise it, it is best to identify our research staff in Drug Discovery, Medicines Development, and Medicines Use. This will also give you a more detailed understanding of the range of expertise of specific academics and research activity within IPS.

Centre For Pharmaceutical Medicine PhD Studentships

New phd opportunities to start in 2022.

• Understanding emerging models of patient engagement and their impact on the research, development and use of medicines (C. Copeland & G. McClelland)
• Machine learning based algorithms to improve the clinical management and outcomes of patients with cardiovascular disease (M. Alhnan & A. Ferro)
• Appraising the accelerated approval of medicines used for cancer care (S. A. Jones & Y Kamel)
• Developing a case to widen the access to topical onychomycosis therapies and provide personalised treatment (S. A. Jones & G. McClelland)
• Understanding how the regulation of borderline substances influences medicine quality: Vitamin D as a case study (S. A. Jones & C. Naraynassamy)
• Exploring new digital platforms to provide patient information on how to use medicines (M. Alhnan & G. McClelland)
• Theranostic hydrogen sulphide dressings in wound healing (A. Dyson & A. Lockett)
• Exploring Antipsychotic-Associated Pneumonia through host-immune responses (C. Copeland, R. Amison & Paul Rees)

How to apply

King’s Apply

Unless guided by programme specific calls, application is via King's Apply.

Postgraduate Apply - Contact Us

Contact the team if you are applying for Postgraduate courses

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Chemistry MPhil, PhD

We have an international reputation in a wide range of fields from catalysis to anticancer drug design and molecular photonics to nanotechnology.

You are currently viewing course information for entry year:

Start date(s):

• September 2024
• January 2025

The School of Natural and Environmental Sciences is a vibrant centre of research in chemistry. Join us for your MPhil or PhD in Chemistry.

Research in Chemistry is organised into the following groups:

Our strength in medicinal chemistry is evident through our track record of successful research. This has included the discovery of drugs that have progressed to clinic. We have core capacity in:

• anti-cancer drug discovery
• biomolecular imaging
• computational chemistry
• chemical biology

Our research develops new methods to synthesise, characterise and improve our understanding of materials. We focus on materials with useful nanoscale properties.

Photonic materials refer to systems that respond to stimulation by light. These can range from single molecules to intricate architectures and molecular devices. Many systems focus on:

• converting sunlight into chemical potential
• the concentration of excitonic energy.

We focus on understanding fundamental principles by using spectroscopic examination.

Structure underpins the majority of research in chemistry, biology and materials science. The trouble is, the world is dynamic and not static. This means that understanding how structures evolve during a chemical reaction is critical. Our research relates to fundamental and applied research fields over broad time ranges.

This research group combines the expertise of organic and inorganic chemists. Our research aims to advance fundamental knowledge and capabilities in synthesis and reactivity. We focus on the elements s, p, d and f blocks across the periodic table. Through this study we can develop new and improved materials and catalytic processes.

Important information

We've highlighted important information about your course. Please take note of any deadlines.

Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.

View our  Academic experience page , which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2023-24.

See our  terms and conditions and student complaints information , which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.

Related courses

Qualifications explained.

Find out about the different qualification options for this course.

An MPhil is available in all subject areas. You receive research training and undertake original research leading to the completion of a 40,000 - 50,000 word thesis.

Find out about different types of postgraduate qualifications

A PhD is a doctorate or doctoral award. It involves original research that should make a significant contribution to the knowledge of a specific subject. To complete the PhD you will produce a substantial piece of work (80,000 – 100,000 words) in the form of a supervised thesis. A PhD usually takes three years full time.

How you'll learn

You'll work closely with an internationally recognised supervisor and receive a high level of training in your specialised subject area. At the start of your research, your supervisor will direct the project and discuss your training requirements. As you gain confidence and expertise you will be given increasing responsibility for the day-to-day running of the project and to explore your own ideas.

Thriving collaborations exist with colleagues in:

• Chemical Engineering and Materials
• Cell and Molecular Biology
• Electrical and Civil Engineering

The School is also associated with the Faculty of Medical Sciences and the Institute for Sustainability.

Depending on your modules, you'll be assessed through a combination of:

We offer a wide range of projects for the thesis. These will be provided by our academics. You can also propose your own topic.

Our mission is to help you:

• stay healthy, positive and feeling well
• overcome any challenges you may face during your degree – academic or personal
• get the most out of your postgraduate research experience
• carry out admin and activities essential to progressing through your degree
• understand postgraduate research processes, standards and rules

We can offer you tailored wellbeing support, courses and activities.

You can also access a broad range of workshops covering:

• research and professional skills
• careers support
• health and safety
• public engagement
• academic development

Find out more about our postgraduate research student support

Your development

Faculty of science, agriculture and engineering (sage) researcher development programme .

Each faculty offers a researcher development programme for its postgraduate research students. We have designed your programme to help you:

• perform better as a researcher
• boost your career prospects
• broaden your impact

Through workshops and activities, it will build your transferable skills and increase your confidence.

You’ll cover:

• techniques for effective research
• methods for better collaborative working
• essential professional standards and requirements

Your programme is flexible. You can adapt it to meet your changing needs as you progress through your doctorate.

Find out more about the SAgE researcher development programme

Doctoral training and partnerships

There are opportunities to undertake your PhD at Newcastle within a:

• Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)
• Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP)

Being part of a CDT or DTP has many benefits:

• they combine research expertise and training of a number of leading universities, academic schools and academics.
• you’ll study alongside a cohort of other PhD students
• they’re often interdisciplinary
• your PhD may be funded

Find out more about doctoral training and partnerships

If there are currently opportunities available in your subject area you’ll find them when you search for funding in the fees and funding section on this course.

The following centres/partnerships below may have PhD opportunities available in your subject area in the future:

• EPSRC Aura Centre for Doctoral Training in Offshore Wind Energy and the Environment
• IAPETUS2 Doctoral Training Partnership 
• Discovery Medicine North - MRC DiMeN Doctoral Training Partnership
• EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Molecular Sciences for Medicine (MoSMed)
• ONE Planet Doctoral Training Partnership
• EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Renewable Energy Northeast Universities (ReNU)

Your future

Our careers service.

Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.

Visit our Careers Service website

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All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body

From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK

Check the government’s website for more information .

The School of Natural and Environmental Sciences has an outstanding range of facilities to support research and teaching, including:

• modern research laboratories
• synthesis and characterisation of novel materials lab
• computational resources for performing molecular modelling
• NMR facilities include 300-700 MHz spectrometers
• glass-blowing, mechanical and electrical/electronic workshops

Find out more about our chemistry facilities

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for 2024 entry (per year).

We are unable to give an exact fee, this is why the fee is shown as a range. This fee range takes into account your research topic and resource requirements.

Your research topic is unique so it will have unique resource requirements. Resources could include specialist equipment, such as laboratory/workshop access, or technical staff.

If your research involves accessing specialist resources then you're likely to pay a higher fee. You'll discuss the exact nature of your research project with your supervisor(s). You'll find out the fee in your offer letter.

Home fees for research degree students

For 2024-25 entry, we will be aligning our standard Home research fees with those set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) . The standard fee will be confirmed in Spring 2024 by UKRI. The Home tuition fees for this course will be updated after this confirmation. 

If your studies last longer than one year, your tuition fee may increase in line with inflation.

Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.

EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support.

If you are unsure of your fee status, check out the latest guidance here .

Scholarships

We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See  our   searchable postgraduate funding page  for more information.  

What you're paying for

Tuition fees include the costs of:

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Find out more about:

• living costs
• tuition fees

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you may have to pay a deposit.

You can check this in the How to apply section .

If you're applying for funding, always check the funding application deadline. This deadline may be earlier than the application deadline for your course.

For some funding schemes, you need to have received an offer of a place on a course before you can apply for the funding.

Search for funding

Find funding available for your course

Entry requirements

The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

Qualifications from outside the UK

English language requirements, admissions policy.

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.

Download our admissions policy (PDF: 201KB) Other policies related to admissions

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Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification. Find out more about the RPL policy which may apply to this course

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If you’re ready, you can select Apply Online and you’ll be taken directly to the application portal.

Alternatively you can find out more about applying on our applications and offers pages .

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You'll have a number of opportunities to meet us throughout the year including:

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Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually

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We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University.

Visit our events calendar for the latest events

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Questions about this course?

If you have specific questions about this course you can contact:

Postgraduate Research Administrator School of Natural and Environmental Sciences Telephone: +44 (0) 191 208 6900 Email: [email protected]

For more general enquiries you could also complete our online enquiry form.

Fill in our enquiry form

Our Ncl chatbot might be able to give you an answer straight away. If not, it’ll direct you to someone who can help.

You'll find our Ncl chatbot in the bottom right of this page.

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• How You'll Learn
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• Your Future
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• Entry Requirements
• Open days & events

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Attend an open day

Discover more about postgraduate research

PhD Chemistry / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page

The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).

Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered. Please contact the admissions team to check.

Full entry requirements

Apply online

In your application you’ll need to include:

• The name of this programme
• Your research project title (i.e. the advertised project name or proposed project name)or area of research
• Your proposed supervisor’s name
• If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the available funding
• A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants' for what to include)
• Details of your previous university level study
• Names and contact details of your two referees.

Find out how this programme aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals , including learning which relates to:

Goal 3: Good health and well-being

Goal 11: sustainable cities and communities, goal 12: responsible consumption and production, goal 15: life on land, programme options, programme description.

The Department of Chemistry offers research opportunities and projects in a wide range of research themes including biological chemistry and organic synthesis, computational and theoretical chemistry, materials chemistry, magnetic resonance and structural chemistry, radiochemistry and environmental chemistry, nanoscience, biochemistry, bioinformatics, biotechnology, genetics, gene expression, molecular biology, microbiology, structural biology, neuroscience, pharmacology, toxicology and biomolecular sciences.

The department boasts state-of-the-art facilties including new laboratories and equipment, and first-rate spectroscopic services support with each researcher supported by at least one supervisor and an advisor with pastoral responsibility.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £4,786; Band B £7,000; Band C £10,000; Band D £14,500; Band E £24,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £28,000; Band B £30,000; Band C £35,500; Band D £43,000; Band E £57,000
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £2393; Band B £3,500; Band C £5,000; Band D £7,250; Band E 12,250 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £14,000; Band B £15,000; Band C £17,750; Band D £21,500; Band E £28,500

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

The programme fee will vary depending on the cost of running the project. Fees quoted are fully inclusive and, therefore, you will not be required to pay any additional bench fees or administration costs.

All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of the course for Home students (fees are typically fixed for International students, for the course duration at the year of entry). For general fees information please visit the postgraduate fees page .

Always contact the Admissions team if you are unsure which fees apply to your project.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

To be considered for many of our scholarships, you’ll need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we’d highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.

For more information about our scholarships, visit our funding page or use our funding database to search for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.

Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.

To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our programmes address.

Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns

Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss

Contact details

Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality.  Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .

Programmes in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

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• Accessibility
• Medicinal Chemistry

Work in the Medicinal Chemistry Group concerns the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of active organic molecules at the interfaces of chemistry and biology

21st Century multidisciplinary research is rich with challenges with huge opportunities for chemistry to impact on Biology and Medicine. Work in the Medicinal Chemistry Group concerns the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of active organic molecules at the interfaces of Chemistry & Biology, aimed at the dissection of fundamental mechanisms; or at the interface of Chemistry & Medicine, employing intelligent drug design with the aim of moving translationally from 'concept to clinic'. Synthetic chemistry is underpinned by biochemical assays, protein crystallography and by  in silico  computational design.  General themes are centred around:

The Chemistry of Cell Signalling

Academic Drug Design & Discovery

Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Manipulation

Potter Group : We explore the chemistry of cellular signalling processes using synthetic tools. These concern both molecules involved in endocrine signalling and its modulation in oncology and endocrinology and signal transduction via “second messengers” based upon inositol polyphosphates and adenine nucleotides that function through elevation of intracellular calcium ions. We have pioneered a new drug target and pharmacophore and brought “first-in class” compounds to many Phase I and II human clinical trials in both men and women in metastatic breast cancer, endometrial cancer, prostate cancer, endometriosis and women’s health with positive clinical indications of human efficacy including disease stabilisation and increased progression-free survival. A particular current research theme is the development of multi-targeting drugs in cancer.

Russell Group : We have established projects in areas such as arylamine  N -acetyltransferase inhibitors (tuberculosis and cancer), transcriptional upregulation of utrophin (Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy) and fundamental approaches to drug discovery via study of cellular signalling pathways and their application towards the development of small molecules to manipulate stem cell fate, regenerative medicines and new anti-cancer agents.

Churchill Group : We focus on understanding how small molecules inside cells act as messengers to control physiology and how mimics of these messenger molecules can be used as chemical tools and drugs.  We use chemical synthesis, in silico modelling and screening and drug repurposing and rescue. We explore areas of biology concerning calcium signalling in general and as it relates to diseases such as cardiovascular, neurological and psychiatric.

Vasudevan Group : Our group studies messenger signalling processes dysregulated in diseases including those of sleep, metabolic conditions and psychiatric disorders and develops novel and repurposed drugs targeting these processes. One recent success with the development of circadian rhythm modifiers will shortly enter clinical evaluation. The tools used include patient-derived cells, phenotypic screens and multiple drug discovery paradigms.

Groups within this theme

Research Themes

• Cardiovascular Pharmacology
• Neuropharmacology
• Odyssey imaging system

MPhil, PhD Chemistry

Research opportunities.

You can study an MPhil over the course of one year or a PhD over the course of three or four years.

These degrees are available for study within any of our research groups:

• Bionanotechnology & analytical chemistry
• Catalysis & synthesis
• Chemical biology & medicinal chemistry
• Materials & computational
• Forensic science

Upcoming events

Check out our postgraduate research webinars.

Rebecca's Strath Story

In the video below, Rebecca explains why she chose to study at Strathclyde and what she enjoys about being a PhD student:

Chemistry Clinic

Find out more about our student-led, knowledge exchange service, which provides opportunities for SMEs and larger companies to access chemistry facilities or consultancy services.

Fees & funding

All fees quoted are per academic year unless otherwise stated.

Entrants may be subject to a small fee during the writing up period.

Fees may be subject to updates to maintain accuracy. Tuition fees will be notified in your offer letter.

All fees are in £ sterling, unless otherwise stated, and may be subject to revision.

Annual revision of fees

Students on programmes of study of more than one year (or studying standalone modules) should be aware that tuition fees are revised annually and may increase in subsequent years of study. Annual increases will generally reflect UK inflation rates and increases to programme delivery costs.

Please note: the fees shown are annual and may be subject to an increase each year.

Our research

We're one of the largest research schools in the UK with interest and expertise across analytical, biological, physical and synthesis research areas.

Supervisors

Postgraduate research at the strathclyde doctoral school.

The Strathclyde Doctoral School provides a vibrant and comprehensive student-centred research and training environment in order to grow and support current and future research talent.

The School encompasses our four faculties and is committed to enriching the student experience, intensifying research outputs and opportunities, and ensuring training is at the highest level. As a postgraduate researcher, you'll automatically become a member of the Strathclyde Doctoral School.

As a PhD student at Strathclyde, I was exposed to high-level intellectual reasoning. I was taught diligence, hard work, patience and determination.

Glasgow is Scotland's biggest & most cosmopolitan city

Our campus is based right in the very heart of Glasgow. We're in the city centre, next to the Merchant City, both of which are great locations for sightseeing, shopping and socialising alongside your studies.

Chemistry MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury

Studying for an MPhil/PhD at UCL Chemistry means joining one of the top departments in the UK, working with a large cohort of researchers alongside academics and, potentially, industry. The department has wide-ranging links with science and technology industries offering excellent prospects for employability.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

• Entry requirements

A UK Master’s degree in Chemistry, or an MSci or MChem with upper second-class Honours, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 1

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

If you are intending to apply for a time-limited visa to complete your UCL studies (e.g., Student visa, Skilled worker visa, PBS dependant visa etc.) you may be required to obtain ATAS clearance . This will be confirmed to you if you obtain an offer of a place. Please note that ATAS processing times can take up to six months, so we recommend you consider these timelines when submitting your application to UCL.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

The department offers a broad range of research themes across physical, organic, inorganic and computational chemistry, specific departmental strengths are listed under research areas below.

Who this course is for

Applicants should have a strong academic record in a relevant technical discipline (for example Chemistry, Materials, Biochemistry, Physics, Computer Science) and a strong interest in Chemistry and its sub-disciplines. Typically applicants should have achieved or expect to obtain the equivalent of a good UK Masters (e.g. MSci, MChem, MEng or MSc) degree by the start of the new academic year. The programme will not accept applications from candidates who are only qualified to Bachelor's level except in truly exceptional circumstances. We particularly encourage applications from female students and students of minority ethnic backgrounds as these are currently under-represented within the field.

What this course will give you

UCL Chemistry has excellent facilities, a large research staff and postgraduate research cohort spanning a broad range of cutting-edge science and the department is situated in the heart of the UCL campus. There are very strong interdisciplinary links with other departments, including the London Centre for Nanotechnology and extensive collaborations with industry.

The foundation of your career

Recent UCL Chemistry PhD graduates have become postdoctoral researchers at a range of institutions in the UK and abroad, including ETH Zurich and Princeton, amongst others. Other PhD graduates have followed a wide range of careers, becoming research chemists, secondary school science teachers, working in finance and publishing and becoming technical consultants.

Employability

Recent UCL Chemistry PhD graduates have become postdoctoral researchers at a range of institutions in the UK and abroad, including ETH Zurich and Princeton, amongst others. Other PhD graduates have followed a wide range of careers, becoming university staff, research chemists, secondary school science teachers, working in finance and publishing and becoming technical consultants.

Networking opportunities are available throughout the PhD at departmental seminars and events for interdisciplinary research collaborations with other institutions and departments. Furthermore all of our PhD students have the opportunity to meet with subject-specific visiting academic speakers giving seminars. Networking is also possible at the Chemical & Physics Society (CPS), which holds weekly talks from staff and visiting speakers throughout each term.

Teaching and learning

Students are taught technical skills by supervisors and/or group members. Additionally, students are expected to attend group meetings, departmental seminars and encouraged to attend relevant internal and external training opportunities and conferences.

There are two assessment steps, MPhil to PhD upgrade and once entered onto the PhD programme fully, the candidate is assessed in an oral exam (typically approximately 3 hours) on their PhD thesis by an appointed examiner from UCL (usually from the department) and an approved external examiner from another university in the UK or occasionally from overseas.

Typically a PhD student would work the equivalent to a standard full-time job of around 37 hours per week. Depending on the nature of the research project, a student would expect to spend several hours per week in contact with supervisor(s), face to face meetings, in group meetings, through online meetings or through email.

Research areas and structure

• Biocatalysis and synthetic biology
• Bionanotechnology
• Chemical biology and drug discovery
• Chemical modification and synthesis of proteins and complex peptides
• Chemical sensors and gas-phase electrochemistry
• Chemistry in interstellar space
• Computational chemistry, from materials simulations to quantum dynamics
• Computational chemistry - biomolecular simulations and drug design
• Development of chemical probes for biological systems
• Development of synthetic methodology for organic synthesis
• Gas-phase reactions of ions and molecules related to atmospheric chemistry
• Industrial materials
• New synthetic methods for inorganic materials
• Thin film growth and analysis
• Surface solid-state science
• Ultrafast molecular dynamics and coherent control.

The department takes a leading role in the following interdisciplinary research centres, which bring together expertise from various departments in UCL, and which maintain strong and coherent links with external institutions:

• The Centre for Computational Science (CCS)
• The Centre for Cosmic Chemistry and Physics
• The Materials Chemistry Centre.
• The Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology
• UK Catalysis Hub- Research Complex at Harwell
• The Francis Crick Institute (2015 onwards)

Research environment

UCL Chemistry is a thriving department with a large cohort of researchers working alongside academics and potentially, industry. The department has wide-ranging links with science and technology industries offering excellent prospects for employability. The department has excellent facilities and was ranked 3rd nationally for their 4* research submissions and joint 1st for 4* and 3* submissions according to the Research Excellence Framework 2021 (REF).

Every PhD is different but typically in year 1, students familiarise themselves with the literature in the area of the research project and formulate their research project as well as receiving training in research skills, as well as technical skills as the project dictates. At around the start of year 2, there is a MPhil to PhD upgrade assessment to establish that students have achieved sufficient progress that they are on track to produce a high quality PhD thesis. Years 2-3 or 2-4 for a 4 year PhD involve intensive research including a period of writing up of the thesis. After the thesis is submitted, the candidate is assessed for the award of a PhD by an oral examination (viva voce).

The part time programme broadly follows the same structure as the full time programme but over a period of up to 6 years.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

T here are no programme-specific costs.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

The department may be able to offer, on a competitive basis, BBSRC, EPSRC, and NERC studentships, teaching assistantships and industrially supported studentships.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

CSC-UCL Joint Research Scholarship

Value: Fees, maintenance and travel (Duration of programme) Criteria Based on academic merit Eligibility: EU, Overseas

Deadlines and start dates are usually dictated by funding arrangements so check with the department or academic unit to see if you need to consider these in your application preparation. In most cases you should identify and contact potential supervisors before making your application. For more information see our How to apply page.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Year of entry: 2023-2024, got questions get in touch.

[email protected]

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PhD in Chemistry

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The PhD is offered by the Department of Chemistry as a full or part-time period of research and introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. 

Please note: part-time study may not always be viable and will be considered on a case-by-case basis, so please discuss this option with your proposed supervisor before making an application for this mode of study. There are attendance requirements and part-time students will need to live close enough to Cambridge to fulfil these.

Students are integrated into the research culture of the Department by joining a research group, supervised by one of our academic staff,  in one of the following areas of chemistry:

Biological Chemistry

Life is the chemistry that goes on inside every one of us. We seek to understand this chemistry, both the physical processes occurring at the molecular level and the chemical reactions, and we also seek to control the chemistry as a way to treat diseases. Biological Chemistry at Cambridge comprises several research groups with additional contributions from many more. The major themes are biological polymers, proteins and nucleic acids - how they interact with each other and with small molecules. How do proteins fold to a defined structure and why do they sometimes not fold properly but aggregate causing neurodegenerative diseases? How do proteins catalyse the reactions that they do and can we make small molecules that inhibit these processes? What structures can nucleic acids adopt? How can we detect and what is the role of modifications of individual nucleotides? How can we target medicinally active compounds to where they are needed in the body? By addressing these questions, we seek to improve human health and the treatment of diseases.

Materials Chemistry

The technological devices we depend on, from aeroplanes to mobile phones, rely upon ever-increasing structural complexity for their function. Designing complex materials for these devices through the art of chemical synthesis brings challenges and opportunities.

Members of the Materials RIG invent new materials in view of potential applications. Modern materials chemistry is a wide ranging topic and includes surfaces, interfaces, polymers, nanoparticles and nanoporous materials, self assembly, and biomaterials, with applications relevant to oil recovery and separation, catalysis, photovoltaics, fuel cells and batteries, crystallisation and pharmaceutical formulation, gas sorption, energy, functional materials, biocompatible materials, computer memory, and sensors. 

Physical and Atmospheric Chemistry

Physical Chemistry at Cambridge has two broad but overlapping aims. One is to understand the properties of molecular systems in terms of physical principles. This work underpins many developing technological applications that affect us all, such as nanotechnology, sensors and molecular medicine. The other is atmospheric chemistry where the interactions between chemical composition, climate and health are studied using a range of computer modelling and experiment-based approaches. Together these two areas form a richly interdisciplinary subject spanning the full range of scientific methodologies: experimental, theoretical and computational. It is a research area with something for everyone.

Synthetic Chemistry

Synthetic research at the University of Cambridge is focused on the development of innovative new methods to make and use molecules of function. Our interests range from the innovative catalytic strategies to make small molecules, to supramolecular assemblies or the total synthesis of biologically important compounds and natural products. Our research is diverse, pioneering and internationally leading. The dynamic environment created by the research groups working at the cutting edge of the field, makes postgraduate research at Cambridge the best place for outstanding and motivated students.

Theoretical Chemistry

Research in Theoretical Chemistry covers a wide range of lengths and timescales, including the active development of new theoretical and computational tools. The applications include high-resolution spectroscopy, atomic and molecular clusters, biophysics, surface science, and condensed matter, complementing experimental research in the Department.

We develop new tools for quantum and classical simulations, informatics, and investigate molecules using descriptions that range from atomic detail to coarse-grained models of mesoscopic matter. This work often begins with analytical theory, which is developed into new computer programs, applied to molecules and materials of contemporary interest, and ultimately compared with experiment.

Educational aims of the PhD programme:

• give students with relevant experience at the master's level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision;
• give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests;
• provide all students with relevant and useful researcher development training opportunities to broaden their horizons and properly equip them for the opportunity which they seek following their PhD studies.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have

• a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their own research;
• demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
• shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research, research techniques and methodologies;
• demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research; and
• taken up relevant and highly useful researcher development training opportunities to develop skills and attributes for their desired future career.

Students currently studying for a relevant Master's degree at the University of Cambridge will normally need to obtain a pass in order to be eligible to continue onto the PhD in Chemistry.

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

The Department of Chemistry hosts a virtual open day for prospective postgraduate students comprising online laboratory tours, a chance to meet with current students and academic staff, and an opportunity to talk to professional services staff about the application process. 

Key Information

3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time, doctor of philosophy, department of chemistry, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, lent 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Easter 2024 (Closed)

Michaelmas 2024, lent 2025 (closed), easter 2025 (closed), funding deadlines.

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

Similar Courses

• Chemistry MPhil
• Planetary Science and Life in the Universe MPhil
• Micro and Nanotechnology Enterprise MPhil
• Computational Methods for Materials Science CDT PhD
• Scientific Computing MPhil

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Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry MChem (Honours) 2024 entry

The MChem (Hons) in Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry focuses on the important interface of chemistry with biology and medicine. You will learn about the critical role of chemistry in the biomedical and pharmaceutical industries and in solving problems such as antibacterial resistance and developing healthcare for an aging population. You will receive a broad base of chemical knowledge, focusing on biological and medicinal chemistry, and reinforced by extensive practical experience and familiarity with modern laboratory, instrumental and computational techniques. 

The MChem allows you to study the subject at great depth with a significant emphasis on research, combined in a single five-year programme, graduating with a Masters degree. The course is designed to give you the best possible training for a career in chemistry and is tailored for those intending to enter the professional chemical sector or to carry out postgraduate study.  

Accreditation 

All single Honours Chemistry degree programmes are accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry . 

The information on this page is for 2024 entry. If you are considering applying for 2025 entry or later, some of these details may differ and we advise you to check the page again before you apply. To receive a notification of when applications open for 2025 entry, please register your interest .

“I have noticed how teaching staff pay special attention to how the experiments undertaken tie in with lectures received. I also liked how the staff really focus on teaching the principle of certain reactivity such that one can apply it to other systems. Also, having now undergone a summer project with the school, it really helped show how much done in the lab is applicable to industry. I think the student-staff relationship is very open and it makes for a brilliant learning environment.”

Entry requirements

The University offers different entry requirements, depending on your background. Find out more about Standard, Minimum and Gateway entry requirements using academic entry explained and see which entry requirements you need to look at using the entry requirements indicator .

For degrees combining more than one subject, the subject with the higher entry requirements determines the grades you need. You will also need to meet any further subject-specific entry requirements as outlined on their pages.

SQA Highers

Gce a-levels, general entry requirements.

All applicants must have attained the following qualifications, or equivalent, in addition to the specific entry requirements for individual programmes.

SQA qualifications

SQA National 5 (B) in English and one SQA National 5 (B) from the following:

• Computing science
• Lifeskills Mathematics (A grade)
• Mathematics
• Psychology.

GCSE qualifications

GCSE (5) in English language or English literature, and one GCSE (5) from the following:

• Computing Science

Other qualifications

We accept a wide range of qualifications for entry on to our programmes. Please see our entry requirements for more information.

More information on how to apply via other entry routes or accreditation of prior learning and experience can be found on the University’s entry requirements web page .

Do I need to have studied this subject before?

Applicants must have studied Chemistry at SQA Higher, GCE A-Level, or equivalent . Preference may be given to candidates offering strong science qualifications.

Alternative study options

Students interested in this course may also be interested in the following:

Direct entry to second year

Well-qualified school leavers may be able to apply for admission directly into the second year of this course.

Single Honours degree

It is also possible to take Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry as a standard four-year BSc degree .

Gateway programmes

Applicants who have narrowly missed the minimum entry grades but meet the University's contextual criteria may be interested in the Gateway to Science programme.

Study abroad

Chemistry students can apply to participate in the University-wide St Andrews Abroad programme. Chemistry students are only able to study abroad for the full academic year (semester placements are not available). For information about study abroad options, please see the study abroad website . 

Working abroad

Completing a work placement abroad is a good opportunity to gain work experience in another culture or language and to enhance valuable skill sets. As part of specific degree programmes in chemistry, you may apply to undertake a work placement abroad for credit.

International applicants

If English is not your first language, you will need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. Find out more about approved English language tests and scores for this course .

Course details

The MChem in Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry is a five-year Integrated Masters course run by the School of Chemistry. During the course, you will develop awareness and appreciation of the latest advances in medicinal chemistry in addition to the fundamentals of the subject. You will receive a highly transferrable scientific training which allows many graduates to enter challenging careers in areas not directly related to chemistry. 

In the first two years, you will take modules in organic, inorganic and physical chemistry. 

Alongside chemistry, in the first year of your studies, you will be required to study an additional two subjects. In the second year you will usually carry on at least one of these subjects, sometimes two. Find out more about how academic years are organised .  

The knowledge and skills in research and analysis that you gain during the sub-honours years will prepare you to undertake more advanced and specialist modules during your final three (Honours) years. These specialist subjects include (but are not limited to): 

• chemical biology 
• biosynthesis of natural products 
• supramolecular chemistry and molecular recognition 
• physical-organic chemistry 
• the chemistry of biomolecules. 

In your fourth year, you will have the opportunity to apply for an external placement in a leading industrial laboratory either in the UK or overseas. The School of Chemistry will assist you in applying for a placement. 

During your final year, you will carry out a research project in one of the School’s highly rated research groups on a topic chosen in consultation with staff. 

The University of St Andrews operates on a flexible modular degree system by which degrees are obtained through the accumulation of credits. More information on the structure of the modules system can be found on the flexible degree structure web page.

In the first two years of your degree (sub-honours level), you will take the required modules in chemistry alongside modules in at least one other subject. 

Typically, you will take one or two chemistry modules per semester during your first two years, and four to six per semester during your third, fourth and fifth years (Honours level). 

• Second year
• Fourth year

Students will take the following compulsory first-year modules: 

• Introductory Inorganic and Physical Chemistry : covers origin of the elements and the periodic table, atomic structure, shapes and properties of molecules, chemistry of the elements, properties of solutions, thermochemistry, thermodynamics and kinetics, and mathematical tools for chemistry. 
• Inorganic and Physical Chemistry 1 : covers bonding in simple molecules, inorganic solids, chemistry of the first-row transition metals, properties of solids, states of matter, and introductory spectroscopy. 
• Organic and Biological Chemistry 1 : covers the structure and nomenclature of simple organic compounds, basic stereochemistry, fundamental organic reaction mechanisms, organic functional groups and their reactions, introductory bioorganic chemistry, and organic spectroscopy. 

Each of the compulsory sub-honours modules in chemistry involves a mixture of lecture-based and practical teaching. 

Students will take the following compulsory second-year modules: 

• Inorganic Chemistry 2 : covers metal complexes and organometallics, descriptive transition-metal chemistry, atmospheric chemistry, solid-state chemistry and descriptive main-group chemistry. 
• Organic Chemistry 2 : covers methods for carbon-carbon bond formation and interconversion of functional groups, aromatic and heteroaromatic reactivity, retrosynthetic analysis, mechanistic biological chemistry and organic spectroscopy. 
• Physical Chemistry 2 : covers quantum mechanics, thermodynamics and electrochemistry, chemical kinetics, molecular spectroscopy and diffraction, and advanced mathematical tools for chemistry. 

If you decide to take chemistry with medicinal chemistry in your third year, you choose from a wide variety of advanced options, including modules ranging from physical inorganic chemistry to mechanisms in organic chemistry. 

Examples of Medicinal Chemistry Honours modules that have been offered in previous years include: 

• Carbohydrate and Nucleic Acid Chemistry 
• Mechanism in Organic Chemistry 
• Organometallic Chemistry 
• Quantitative Aspects of Medicinal Chemistry 
• Synthetic Methodology. 

During fourth year, you will have the opportunity to work on a placement outside St Andrews for up to 12 months. This is a great chance to gain experience in industry and to add value to your CV at the same time. 

Typically, you may join a research and development group within a leading industrial research laboratory and receive a salary for the duration of your placement. It is also possible for the placement to be carried out in an overseas academic institution. 

The School has links with many large and small companies and will assist students in CV preparation, interview techniques and making placement applications. Some of the companies that students from St Andrews have completed placements with recently include: 

• AstraZeneca (UK) 
• BP (UK) 
• DSM (Amsterdam, Netherlands) 
• GlaxoSmithKline (UK) 
• Helleday Laboratories (Stockholm, Sweden) 
• Novartis (Basel, Switzerland) 
• Proctor and Gamble (UK) 
• Roche (Basel, Switzerland) 
• Syngenta (UK). 

Alternatively, you have the choice to complete the MChem without doing an external placement, and will take lecture and practical modules during your fourth year at St Andrews.  

During fifth year, you will take advanced research-led modules in your chosen specialist areas. Advanced modules offered in the past include: 

• Asymmetric Synthesis 
• Chemical Biology 
• Molecular Recognition 
• Natural Products, Biosynthesis and Enzyme Co-factors 
• Reactive Intermediates. 

Students also undertake a substantial research project in their final year on a topic chosen in consultation with academic staff. The project aims to develop your skills in experimental design and problem-solving, the evaluation and interpretation of data, independent working, and both oral and written communication. 

The compulsory modules listed here must be taken in order to graduate in this subject. However, most students at St Andrews take additional modules, either in their primary subject or from other subjects they are interested in. For Honours level, students choose from a range of Honours modules, some of which are listed above. A full list of all modules appropriate to the programme for the current academic year can be found in the programme requirements .

• Teaching format

Chemistry is taught through a combination of lectures (80 to 200 students) and labs (20 to 50 students), which are supplemented by small group tutorials (5 to 10 students). Class sizes decrease at Honours level. 

All lecture courses have online support materials, and additional teaching support is given for selected topics, such as mathematics. 

When not attending lectures, tutorials and labs, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve: 

• working on individual and group projects 
• undertaking research in a laboratory 
• undertaking research in the library 
• preparing coursework assignments and presentations 
• preparing for examinations. 

All sub-honours modules are assessed by 60% to 70% written examinations combined with 30% to 40% coursework covering laboratories, tutorials and transferable skills exercises. 

For Honours modules, assessment is either by written examination for lecture-based modules, or by coursework (including written reports, oral presentations and oral examinations) for laboratory, workshop and research project modules. 

Examinations are held at the end of each semester during a dedicated exam diet with revision time provided beforehand. 

The School aims to provide feedback on assessments and coursework within three weeks to help you improve on future assessments. 

Undergraduates at the University of St Andrews must achieve at least 7.0 on the St Andrews 20-point grade scale to pass a module. To gain access to Honours-level modules, students must achieve the relevant requisites as specified in the policy on entry to Honours and in the relevant programme requirements . To find out the classification equivalent of points, please see the common reporting scale.

You will be taught by an experienced teaching team of world-leading academics with expertise in medicinal chemistry and specialists in chemical education. Postgraduate research students who have undertaken training may also contribute to the teaching of practical classes under the supervision of the module leader. 

You can find contact information for all chemistry staff on the School of Chemistry website . 

The University’s Student Services team can help students with additional needs resulting from disabilities, long-term medical conditions or learning disabilities. More information can be found on the students with disabilities web page.

Scotland £1,820

England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland £9,250

Channel Islands, Isle of Man £9,250

EU and overseas £30,160

More information on tuition fees can be found on the undergraduate fees and funding page.

Additional costs

There are no additional fees for labs in the School. However, the School expects that students provide their own lab coat and, in line with University policy, to purchase a number of textbooks as part of their study. 

Accommodation fees

Find out about accommodation fees for University accommodation.

Funding and scholarships

The University of St Andrews offers a number of scholarships and support packages to undergraduate students each year.

If you participate in the External Placement option of this programme, in your fourth year you will be charged your normal tuition fee for a full academic year.

For Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) funded students, a half tuition fee grant is available from SAAS.

For Student Loans Company (SLC) funded students, a half tuition fee loan is available from SLC.

Joint Honours degrees

You can also take Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry as part of a joint Honours degree in which you will take core modules of your chosen subjects.

• UCAS code C761: Bachelor of Science (Honours) Biology and Chemistry
• UCAS code FF16: Bachelor of Science (Honours) Chemistry and Earth Sciences
• UCAS code FG11: Bachelor of Science (Honours) Chemistry and Mathematics
• UCAS code FF13: Master in Science (Honours) Chemistry and Physics

"With" degrees

You can take Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry as part of a "with" Honours degree in which the majority of the course deals with the first name subject. St Andrews offers the following "with" degrees in Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry:

• Bachelor of Science (Honours) Chemistry with French (With Integrated Year Abroad) - UCAS code F1RC
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) Chemistry with French - UCAS code F1R1
• Master in Chemistry (Honours) Chemistry with French - UCAS code F1RD
• Master in Chemistry (Honours) Chemistry with French with External Placement - UCAS code F1RA
• Master in Chemistry (Honours) Chemistry with Mathematics - UCAS code F1G1

"With" degrees taken with French are also available 'With Integrated Year Abroad'.

St Andrews chemistry graduates have an employment rate of over 95% and are in demand by large multinational and grassroots companies alike. Chemistry degrees provide a range of highly desirable skills, that are prized by employers across numerous sectors, including: 

• problem-solving 
• numeracy 
• data handling 
• teamwork 
• oral and written communication. 

St Andrews chemistry graduates move into a wide range of employment both in the chemical and allied industries, as well as other sectors outside physical sciences. Many MChem graduates continue on to PhD-level degrees both in the UK and overseas. 

The Careers Centre offers one-to-one advice to all students as well as a programme of events to assist students to build their employability skills.

What to do next

Online information events.

Join us for one of our information events where you can find out about different levels of study and specific courses we run. There are also sessions available for parents and college counsellors.

Undergraduate visiting days

We encourage all students who are thinking of applying to the University to attend one of our online or in-person visiting days.

School of Chemistry website

Discover Uni

Discover Uni provides official statistics about higher education courses taken from national surveys and data collected from universities and colleges about all their students. You can use this data to compare information for different degree programmes to help you make a decision about what and where to study.

• Schools & departments

Medicinal and Biological Chemistry MSc

Awards: MSc

Study modes: Full-time

Funding opportunities

Programme website: Medicinal and Biological Chemistry

Discovery Day

Join us online on 18th April to learn more about postgraduate study at Edinburgh

View sessions and register

Programme description

In this MSc in Medicinal and Biological Chemistry, you will explore the role of biomolecules in life, disease and biotechnology from a chemical perspective.

You will gain a thorough understanding of the structures, properties, functions, applications and manipulation of biological molecules, from macromolecules to cells, whilst also discussing the design of exciting new medicines in the laboratory and their function in clinical settings. This also requires the chemical understanding of synthetic molecules, their structures, properties, analysis and synthesis.

The programme will have a strong practical element and significant continuous assessment. This includes a practical research project, which provides you with invaluable experience of working on a real research project on a medicinal or biological chemistry topic.

Much of the teaching is designed specifically for the MSc students and you will be assessed through a combination of:

• laboratory reports
• presentations
• performance and reporting on the MSc research project

The knowledge and skills acquired in the programme will leave graduates well equipped to compete for positions in chemical, pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies.

The lecture courses include topics in:

• Concepts in Medicinal and Biological Chemistry
• Advanced Medicinal Chemistry
• Advanced Biological Chemistry
• Optional Courses in Chemistry
• Laboratory Techniques and Research Techniques

These are studied concurrently with a predominantly practical based course offering an introduction to research methods related to medicinal and biological chemistry.

Students then proceed to a period of full-time research project work, leading to the submission of their Masters dissertation.

MSc Student Experience

Programme structure, how will i learn.

Lectures are given by leading researchers in the area of medicinal and biological chemistry.

The lecture courses are supported by tutorial sessions and assessed by coursework and examination.

The MSc programme provides experience and training in activities that are important to professional chemists and to the research process, such as:

• science communication
• data handling and statistics
• modern laboratory techniques in Chemistry
• relevant transferable skills

Find out more about compulsory and optional courses

We link to the latest information available. Please note that this may be for a previous academic year and should be considered indicative.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the programme, you should have developed a depth of comprehension and critique in the core elements of their subject area, including:

• critical analysis and management of data
• judging the relationship between theory and methodology
• assessment of the appropriate methods of data collection/analysis to address the research question
• assessment of relevance of previous studies
• critical thinking

Additionally, you will have enhanced your professional/practical skills through:

• experience of research design and management
• advanced instrumentation or techniques
• production of scientific reports

You will also have the opportunity to develop transferable skills such as:

• written, visual and oral delivery and dissemination of research findings
• interpersonal and communication skills
• computing proficiency
• organisation skills

Career opportunities

The School of Chemistry actively supports and guides its students in their career aspirations. As a graduate, you will be well suited to take up roles in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, either in research and development or sales and marketing. You will gain valuable work experience in a real-life research environment.

Our courses also teach you the valuable skills you need to move into other areas outside chemistry. Careers in IT, management or finance are possibilities after completing your degree.

Alternatively, a masters degree is a precursor to a PhD degree.

Alumni Profiles

• See what jobs our alumni go on to

Chemistry Career profiles

• See the wide range of careers a Chemistry degree can lead to on the Royal Society of Chemistry website

Entry requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in chemistry, or a closely related discipline, with a strong chemistry component.

We may also consider a UK 2:2 honours degree, or its international equivalent, with relevant work experience and supportive references.

Students from China

This degree is Band C.

• Postgraduate entry requirements for students from China

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 176 with at least 169 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE II with distinctions in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 62 with at least 59 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

Fees and costs

Scholarships and funding, uk government postgraduate loans.

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your residency status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

The Chemistry Tercentenary Masters Scholarship helps outstanding postgraduate taught masters students to study in the School of Chemistry by providing for some of the costs of their training.

The scholarship will cover your full tuition fees (2024/25 Scotland/Rest of UK/International/EU tuition fees) and will be tenable for one academic session. This award cannot be held concurrently with fully-funded scholarships. It can, however, be combined with other partial funding.

Eligibility

The scholarship is offered to applicants starting a full-time MSc programme in the School of Chemistry in September 2024 in:

• MSc Analytical Chemistry
• MSc Medicinal & Biological Chemistry
• MSc Materials Chemistry

For further information on the scholarship opportunities available, please see our website:

School of Chemistry Scholarship opportunities

Search for Scholarship and funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• Programme Secretary, Zoe Burger
• Phone: +44 (0)131 651 7257
• Contact: [email protected]
• School of Chemistry
• Joseph Black Building
• The King's Buildings Campus
• Programme: Medicinal and Biological Chemistry
• School: Chemistry
• College: Science & Engineering

Select your programme and preferred start date to begin your application.

MSc Medicinal and Biological Chemistry - 1 Year (Full-time)

Application deadlines.

We encourage you to apply at least one month prior to entry so that we have enough time to process your application. If you are also applying for funding or will require a visa then we strongly recommend you apply as early as possible.

• How to apply

You must submit one reference with your application.

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

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PhD in Chemistry

Entry requirement:   2.1 Masters degree or equivalent . 

Please check international qualifications equivalence guidelines here .

Coming to Cambridge for a PhD in Chemistry means you will be joining a community of over 50 academics, 350 PhD students and more than 200 postdoctoral researchers. The research opportunities are vast and career development is second to none. 

The route to a PhD takes up to four years of full-time research, culminating in a substantial thesis of up to 60,000 words which is examined by viva. Along your journey to a PhD, you will be absorbed in the laboratory life of your chosen research group. The postgraduate chemistry lecture series we offer aims to bring everyone up to the same high-level of foundational knowledge; irrespective of prior educational background at Masters level. You will present your research at seminars and conferences as you progress. Most PhD students go to at least one international and national chemistry conference in the course of their studies.

HOW TO APPLY

We strongly recommend that you correspond with potential supervisors early and well in advance of submitting your application. This is also important for maintaining oversight of which project you could be working on. Prospective projects may not always reflect groups publications therefore, we encourage you to discuss this with your potential supervisors to avoid disappointment. 

For information about funding please click here .

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• Undergraduate

Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry

Explore the industrial development, production and quality control of new drugs in this specialist chemistry course.

Applications open on 14 May 2024

Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry and a Year in Industry

Build your appreciation of the chemical sciences and the drug development process

Build laboratory-based skills towards a career in biomedical research or the pharmaceutical industry

Engage with medicinal chemistry concepts in detail on a research project and develop your expertise on an optional year in industry

How would you like to study?

Study option:

Showing course information for 2025 View 2024 course information

Course key facts

Qualification, october 2025, ucas course code, not set home, not set overseas, delivered by, department of chemistry, south kensington, applications: places, 6 : 1 (2023), minimum entry standard, aaa (a-level), 38 points (international baccalaureate), course overview.

Build your appreciation of the chemical sciences and the drug development process in this four-year course.

Designed to prepare you for a career in the pharmaceutical industry or biomedical research, this course will help you develop an interconnected understanding of core chemistry topics.

You'll deepen your knowledge of key topics relating to inorganic, organic, physical, analytical, synthetic and computational chemistry. You'll also focus on the identification, development and production of new drugs.

Extensive laboratory-based work will help develop your practical skills. You'll learn to synthesise chemicals and study chemical systems and build expertise in experimental measurements and computational models.

As the course develops, you'll study strategies for targeting diseases and work with complex portfolios of data. This includes opportunities to specialise across a series of advanced topics in your third and fourth year.

Part of your studies will see you analyse emergent ‘industry 4.0’ approaches and technologies such as rapid prototyping, biohacking and machine learning. 

Your study reaches Master's level in your final year, where your work will culminate with a substantial research project.

Teaching is primarily delivered at our South Kensington campus, as well as the state-of-the-art Molecular Sciences Research Hub in White City.

Subject to university approval.

Build your appreciation of the chemical sciences and the drug development process on this five-year course.

Incorporating a year in industry, this course will prepare you for a career in the pharmaceutical and related industries, or in biomedical research.

You'll develop an interconnected understanding of core chemistry topics, and deepen your knowledge of inorganic, organic, physical, analytical, synthetic and computational chemistry.

You'll also focus on the identification, development and production of new drugs.

Your fourth year is spent in industry. During this period, you'll place chemistry in an industrial context on an extended placement with a leading industrial partner. Previous placement partners have included GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca and Pfizer.

This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.

Find out more about potential course changes .

Please note: it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.

You’ll study the following core modules.

Core modules

Begin to engage with university chemistry and receive training in teamwork and giving feedback.

Language of Chemistry

Explore how structures and concepts in chemistry are represented and described and learn how to draw and name a variety of molecules.

Structure and Bonding: Atomic Structure to Molecular Orbitals

Become familiar with the simple tools used to predict molecular structures and use theoretical models to explain the bonding in molecules and other chemical structures.

Introduction to Spectroscopy

Develop your understanding of the physical and theoretical basis for spectroscopic measurements and examine spectroscopic techniques.

Reactivity at Carbon Centres

Learn about the major types of reactivity at carbon centres and learn how to rationalise trends in reactivity.

The Reactions Toolkit: Thermodynamics and Kinetics

Explore the major theories and methodologies used to interpret chemical reactions and chemical equilibrium at a macroscopic level.

Chemistry of the Elements: Hydrogen to Uranium

Examine concepts and trends in the chemistry of the s-, p-, d- and f- block elements, and their compounds.

Practical Chemistry 1

Develop skills for practical chemistry and begin to apply these to investigative practical work.

Medicinal Chemistry 1

Assess the principles that underpin medicinal chemistry and place drug design within a medicinal chemistry context.

Appreciate the expectations for your second year of learning and learn about inclusivity and diversity.

Electronic States and Bonding

Understand what electronic states are and why chemical bonds form, based on approximate quantum mechanical models.

Analysis of Molecules, Materials and Mixtures

Explore the underlying theories of spectroscopy, and investigate a variety of spectroscopic techniques and applications.

Solids, Liquids and Interfaces

Use thermodynamic quantities to describe the state of a system, phase and interface; and calculate how such quantities change during a chemical transformation.

Chemistry of Molecular Systems

Build on your knowledge of properties, reactivity and synthesis, and apply it to a wider range of molecular chemical systems.

Macromolecules and Materials

Extend your knowledge of properties, reactivity and synthesis to consider polymers and biomolecules such as carbohydrates and peptides.

Control and Selectivity in Molecular Synthesis

Apply your prior knowledge of synthesis and properties to explain the properties of larger molecules such as bio(macro)molecules or polymers.

Practical Chemistry 2

Develop your research skills through synthetic, physical/analytical and computational experimental work.

Medicinal Chemistry 2

Further your knowledge of medicinal chemistry in areas including pharmacokinetics and the principles of drug discovery. 

You’ll study all these core modules.

Advanced Chemistry Topics 1

Explore five advanced chemistry topics.

You’ll pick from topics including advanced synthesis, materials chemistry, and soft condensed matter.

Advanced Chemistry Topics 2 for Medicinal Chemistry

Investigate five advanced topics and build your knowledge of cellular biology and medicinal chemistry in the context of disease.

Practical Chemistry 3 for Medicinal Chemistry

Further develop your skills in practical chemistry and research through a short independent research project and project-style lab practicals.

Your I-Explore module offers you choices from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department. 

You will be taught alongside students from other courses with options including business, management and many more.

You’ll study all these core modules. 

You’ll also choose two optional modules.

From Molecules to Medicine

Learn how to interpret a complex and involved portfolio of data and identify potential strengths and weaknesses within a drug discovery portfolio.

Research Project

Join one of the department’s academic  research groups to complete a six-month independent research project in a medicinal chemistry-related research area.

Optional modules

Advanced catalysis.

Understand catalyst activity and selectivity through mechanistic (kinetic) studies.

Advanced Stereochemistry, Synthesis and Biosynthesis

Develop a high-level understanding of the tactics and strategies deployed in complex molecule and natural products synthesis and biosynthesis.

Molecular Imaging

Apply fundamental concepts of chemistry to biological and medical imaging and understand the importance of chemistry in medical imaging.

Sustainable Chemistry

Appreciate current applications and challenges in sustainable chemical processes and products.

Chemistry of Nanomaterials

Examine various methods for discovering and optimising nanomaterials for a wide variety of applications.

Membrane Biophysics

Analyse the structure and dynamics of membranes and lipid assemblies and understand how these regulate key biological processes.

Processable Electronics from Materials Chemistry to Device Applications

Broaden your understanding of the operation mechanisms of organic electronics devices and the importance of electrodes in their design.

Renewable Energy from Solar Cells to Fuel Cells

Understand charge generation and flow through a variety of chemical systems of relevance to energy production and storage.

• Year 4 (Year in Industry)

MSci Chemistry Research Proposal and Literature Review

Deliver a report focusing on your project proposal and a literature review of your chosen research area.

You spend this year on an industrial placement, normally for 12 months.

During this time you remain registered as an Imperial student and usually pay reduced tuition fees to the College. You also receive a salary from your host company.

Our strong industry links means we have an extensive list of firms willing to host our students, some of them in Europe. Alternatively, you can arrange your own placement in consultation with the Department.

The work you do during your placement must be predominantly related to chemical research.

You will complete a formal research project report on the work you have carried out. This will be assessed by your academic and industrial supervisors.

You will also complete the MSci Chemistry Research Proposal and Literature Review.

You’ll study these core modules. 

Professional accreditation

This degree leads to a Master’s level qualification and is professionally accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) .

This accreditation is internationally respected in an increasingly global industry and graduate market. It will allow you to demonstrate that you’ve completed a high-quality degree programme designed to meet the needs of both students and their future employers.

This MSci degree fully satisfies the academic requirements for professional registration as a Chartered Chemist (CChem). Becoming a Chartered Chemist earns you an internationally recognised qualification which can enhance your career prospects and earning potential

Our accreditation agreement with the Royal Society of Chemistry is renewed every five years. The current accreditation agreement was recently extended through 2027.

Associateship

In addition to your degree, you’ll receive the Associateship of the Royal College of Science (ARCS) upon completion of this course. This associateship is awarded by one of our historic constituent Colleges.

Teaching and assessment

Balance of teaching and learning.

• Classroom teaching and laboratory work
• Independent study

Years 1 and 2

• 30% Classroom teaching and laboratory work
• 70% Independent study
• 20% Classroom teaching and laboratory work
• 80% Independent study
• 10% Classroom teaching and laboratory work
• 90% Independent study

Teaching and learning methods

Balance of assessment.

• Examination
• Coursework and practical work
• 75% Examination
• 25% Coursework and practical work
• 65% Examination
• 35% Coursework and practical work
• 40% Examination
• 60% Coursework and practical work
• 25% Examination
• 75% Coursework and practical work

Assessment methods

• 0% Examination
• 100% Coursework and practical work
• 50% Examination
• 50% Coursework and practical work

Entry requirements

We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.

• International Baccalaureate
• English language requirement
• Foundation programmes
• Other qualifications

To include:

• A in Chemistry
• A in Mathematics
• A in a third subject (Biology, Economics, Further Mathematics and Physics are preferred)

Not accepted : General Studies and Critical Thinking Science Practical Endorsement:  If you are made an offer you will be required to achieve a pass in the practical endorsement in all science subjects that form part of the offer.

Typical offer

A*AA–A*A*A (applicants studying three A-levels)

Made to at least 80% of 2023 A-level applicants.

Support for widening participation applicants

Our contextual admissions route for UK applicants may entitle you to additional considerations within the application process to help us form a more complete picture of your potential to succeed at Imperial. 

Find out more about who is eligible and what support you may receive .

38 points

• 6 in Chemistry at higher level
• 6 in Mathematics at higher level
• 6 in a third subject at higher level (Biology, Economics or Physics are preferred)

Preferred Mathematics syllabus :  The Mathematics Analysis and Approaches or the Applications and Interpretation syllabi will be accepted at higher level with no preference.

39-40 points

Made to at least 80% of IB applicants in 2023.

Find out more about  who is eligible and what support you may receive .

All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to the College.

For admission to this course, you must achieve the  higher College requirement  in the appropriate English language qualification. For details of the minimum grades required to achieve this requirement, please see the  English language requirements .

Imperial does not offer its own Foundation Programme. However, the following are accepted for entry to this programme:

• UCL’s Undergraduate Preparatory Certificate for Science and Engineering (UPCSE)

Language requirement:  For a course including a year abroad, you will also need an appropriate modern foreign language at CEFR A2+.

Students complete four modules across the year – two compulsory and two elective modules.

Compulsory modules:

• Research and Academic Skills: Science and Society
• Academic English

Elective modues:

• Mathematics

Minimum requirements

The Department of Chemistry minimum requirements are:

• 80% overall
• 80% Chemistry
• 80% Mathematics

UK qualifications

If you are studying a UK qualification, other than A-levels, choose your qualification from the list below to see the entry requirement for this course.

This qualification is not accepted for entry to this programme.

Our minimum entry standard is:

• D3 in Chemistry
• D3 in Mathematics
• D3 in a third subject

Our minimum entry standard is AAA overall, to include:

• A in a third subject

International qualifications

We accept a wide range of qualifications from different countries – choose your qualification from the list below to see the entry requirement for this course. If your qualification is not included, it might not be accepted for entry. You can check with the relevant Admissions team for confirmation.

Our minimum entry standard is 5, 5, 5 overall, from:

• 5 in Chemistry
• 5 in Calculus BC
• 5 in another subject

*If you are studying additional High School Qualifications alongside Advanced Placements, requirements may apply to both sets of qualifications.

• ATAR 98.5 with AAA including Chemistry and Maths

Our minimum entry standard is ATAR 98.5 with:

• 45/50 & 42/50 in Chemistry & Maths (grades any order)
• 42/50 in one further subject

Scores out of 50 will be doubled for 2-unit courses which are expected for essential subjects.

• A+/ A in Chemistry and Maths (grades any order)
• EA/HA in Chemistry and Maths (grades any order)
• HA in a third subject
• 1 Chemistry
• 1 Mathematics

Our minimum entry standard is 8.25 overall, to include:

• 9 in Mathematics
• 9 in Chemistry

*Grades above are when grades out of 10. Grades are doubled when marked out of 20.

Our minimum entry standard is 5.8 overall, with the following state exams:

• 6 in Mathematics
• 6 in Chemistry

Our minimum entry standard is 87.5% overall from year 12 subjects, to include the following grades at Year 12:

• 90% / 85% in Mathematics and Chemistry (grades any order)
• 85% in three further subjects
• 1 (AAA) in Chemistry (double unit)
• 1 (AAA) in Mathematics (double unit)
• 1 (AAA) in two further units
• 5 Chemistry (HL)
• 5 Mathematics (HL)
• 5 Other (HL)

Our minimum entry standard is 19 overall:

• 20 / 19 in Chemistry and Mathematics
• A-level Mathematics and Chemistry grades A*/A (grades any order)

Our minimum entry standard is 10 overall, to include:

• 12 / 10 in Chemistry and Mathematics (grades any order)
• 91% Mathematics Extensive (State Exam)
• 5 Chemistry

Our minimum entry standard is 82.5% overall, to include:

• 9 / 8.5 in Mathematics and Chemistry (grades any order)
• 7, 7 Chemistry and Mathematics (advanced)

Our minimum entry standard is 16 overall, to include two speciality subjects at year 13:

• 16 / 15 in Mathematics with option Mathematics Expert and Physics-Chemistry (grades any order)

Our minimum entry standard is 1.5 overall, to include the following abiturprufung exams:

• 14 / 13 in Chemistry and Mathematics (grades any order)
• 5* / 5 in Chemistry and Mathematics (grades any order)

Our minimum entry standard from higher level subjects is:

• 5 Mathematics

Our minimum entry standard is 8.5 overall, to include:

• 9 / 8 in Chemistry and Mathematics (grades any order)

Our minimum entry standard is 91% overall, to include:

• 95% / 90% in Chemistry and Mathematics (grades any order)

Our minimum entry standard is three higher level DP courses (stand alone or within the CP), to include:

*Mathematics Analysis and Approaches or the Applications and Interpretation syllabi will be accepted at higher level with no preference.

Higher level DP courses may also be presented in combination with other accepted qualifications, providing a minimum equivalent of three A level breadth of study is presented. Accepted qualifications with subject and grade requirements are available in the entry requirement section of each course page. If you require guidance, please contact Admissions.

Due to the highly selective nature of admissions at Imperial, candidates should be aware that those presenting the full IB Diploma will typically be considered as presenting more competitive applications.

Our minimum entry standard is 18 overall:

• 19 / 18 in Chemistry and Mathematics (grades any order)
• H1 Chemistry
• H1 Mathematics
• H1 in one further subject
• H2 in three further subjects

Our minimum entry standard is 90% overall, to include the following five unit subjects:

Our minimum entry standard is 98 overall, to include:

• 10 / 9 in Chemistry and Mathematics (grades any order)
• 6 in three other subjects

Our minimum entry standard is 52 overall, to include:

• 55 / 50 in Mathematics and Chemistry (grades any order)

Our minimum entry standard is AAA in intermediate subjects with the following at advanced level:

Our minimum entry standard is 5 overall:

Our minimum entry standard is 8.3 overall, to include:

Our minimum entry standard is E overall from Level 3:

• E Chemistry
• E Mathematics
• 6 / 5 Mathematics and Chemistry (grades any order)

Our minimum entry standard is the following subjects at advanced level - numerical grades refer to the required stanine:

Our minimum entry standard is 18 overall including:

Our minimum entry standard is 9.25 overall including:

• 9.5 / 9 in Chemistry and Mathematics (grades any order)

Our minimum entry standard is 4.75 overall:

Our minimum entry standard is AAA overall from H2 subjects, to include:

Our minimum entry standard is 4.5 overall:

• 4.5 Chemistry
• 4.5 Mathematics

Our minimum entry standard is 3.8 overall:

• 3.8 Chemistry
• 3.8 Mathematics

Our minimum entry standard is 8.75 overall, to include:

• 9 / 8.5 in Chemistry and Mathematics (grades any order)

Our minimum entry standard is A in the majority of subjects, to include:

• A in Chemistry 2
• A in Mathematics 4

Our minimum entry standard is 5.25 overall, to include:

• 5.5 / 5 in Chemistry and Mathematics (grades any order)

How to apply

Apply via ucas.

When applications open, you will be able to start your application via UCAS Hub. There you can add this course as one of your choices and track your application.

Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)

Assessing your application

Admissions Tutors consider all the evidence available during our rigorous selection process and the College flags key information providing assessors with a more complete picture of the educational and social circumstances relevant to the applicant. Some applicants may be set lower offers and some more challenging ones.

Post-application open day and interview

If assessment of your UCAS application indicates that you are likely to satisfy our requirements, you will be shortlisted for an academic interview as part of our interview programme.

There will be a pre-recorded talk by the admissions tutor made available online, about the department, the structure of the course and other opportunities available to enrich your experience with us. There will also be talks and presentations available by the accommodation and finance teams, and from Horizons about the great range of modules they offer. We are organising online Q&A sessions, where you will have the chance to talk to the admissions tutor and to current undergraduates, and you can see more about the department on the Chemistry and  Virtual Tour  websites.

We will run interviews in the morning and afternoon (UK time) to accommodate students in different time-zones, and each applicant will be interviewed individually. The interview will comprise a discussion with an experienced academic who will be looking to assess an applicant’s motivation for studying chemistry and their potential for the future.

Although the discussion may begin with topics mentioned in the UCAS personal statement, the conversations will likely expand to cover topics that the applicant may not be so familiar with. This enables the interviewer to observe how an applicant thinks and how they reason their way through a problem.

The interviewers are highly experienced and are able to see through nerves, stress and silly mistakes so you should not worry about answering the questions. There are no trick questions, if an answer seems obvious, it might be just that.

We then use the interview feedback in combination with the UCAS application, to decide whether we are able to make an offer, and what the conditions of the offer will be. We will be making offer decisions only after all interviews are complete. We will aim to contact all applicants directly by e-mail, by early March with a decision. You should be able to see this updated on  UCAS Hub by the end of March. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Department of Chemistry have put together a list of frequently asked questions that often arise during the admissions process.

ATAS certificate

An ATAS certificate  is not  required for students applying for this course.

BSc or MSci?

We offer both Master in Science (MSci) degrees and Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees.

Our MSci degrees cover more in-depth chemistry study than our BSc degrees, making them more suited to students who are considering a career in research or who may wish to progress to further study such as a PhD.

Our MSci degrees also include a substantial individual project in the final year, which gives you the chance to work in a research environment; you also engage with more advanced research-led lecture modules.

Transfer between courses

Years one and two of our Chemistry degrees follow the same core course content, supplemented by optional modules designed to match your chosen course of study. This structure offers you the opportunity to transfer between Chemistry degrees at a later stage providing you have studied the appropriate optional subjects, and as such  you should apply to only one degree within the Department of Chemistry .

You may need to meet a certain academic standard to be eligible for placements in industry or abroad.

If you are an international student, transferring to a different course could have an impact on your student visa. Please visit our  International Student Support webpage  for further information.

Transfer to Year Abroad/Year in Industry

Year abroad, language requirement.

Teaching is in the language of your host country in France and Germany, so you will need to reach an acceptable proficiency in the relevant language before you go. Free language classes are available at the College to help you prepare.

Availability

There are limited places available on the Year Abroad programme, which means that competition for selection is strong and a placement cannot be guaranteed. Normally, only students with marks of 60% or above will be eligible for placements in France and Germany. Only students with marks of 70% or above will be eligible for placements in Singapore and the USA. Please note the list of universities located abroad that the Department currently has partnerships with is illustrative.  Partnerships with universities are subject to continuous review and individual partnerships may or may not be renewed.

Year in industry

A Year in Industry allows you to gain paid experience of using chemistry in an industrial context. You will be expected to help the Department organise your placement, however help is available:

• The Careers Service advertises placement vacancies on its online vacancy system, JobsLive.
• The Department of Chemistry has a dedicated Industrial Liaison Officer who advertises opportunities and provides support with the application process.

Securing a placement is competitive, so you may need to apply to multiple employers and take part in recruitment activities. Application procedures vary from company to company. They can include CV and cover letter submissions, online tests, Skype interviews, technical interviews and assessment centres.

Students from the Department have previously completed placements with:

• GlaxoSmithKline
• AstraZeneca

The employer can often be in a location of your choice – including outside the UK – as long as you are successful in obtaining a position there and the placement is approved by the Department.

Tuition fees

Overseas fee, as a guide, the home fee for 2024–25 was £9,250 per year, year in industry, for the 2024–25 year in industry, the fee was £1,850 for that year, inflationary increases.

Your fee is based on the year you enter the College, not your year of study. This means that if you repeat a year or resume your studies after an interruption, your fees will only increase by the amount linked to inflation.

Find out more about our  tuition fees payment terms , including how inflationary increases are applied to your tuition fees in subsequent years of study.

Which fee you pay

Whether you pay the Home or Overseas fee depends on your fee status. This is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status. Find out  how we assess your fee status .

Government funding

If you're a Home student, you can apply for a  Tuition Fee Loan  from the UK government to cover the entire cost of tuition for every year of your course.

You can also apply for a means-tested  Maintenance Loan  to help towards your living costs.

Imperial Bursary scheme

We’re offering up to £5,000 each year through our Imperial Bursary scheme for eligible Home undergraduates.

If your household income remains under £70,000 a year, you’ll automatically qualify for every year of your course.

Find out more about our Imperial Bursary scheme .

As a guide, the Overseas fee for 2024–25 was £41,650 per year

For the 2024–25 year in industry, the fee was 20% of the fee for that year, how will studying at imperial help my career.

Gain transferable skills relevant to a career in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, or biomedical and chemical biology research.

With specialised knowledge, you'll be highly sought after in a range of sectors.

Alternatively, you may wish to consider continuing your studies at PhD level.

Potential career routes could include industrial development, production and quality control, marketing, finance and teaching.

Other potential career paths include data scientists, audit trainees, and research scientists for government.

Further links

Contact the department.

• Email:  [email protected]  

Visit the  Department of Chemistry website

Request info

Learn more about studying at Imperial. Receive useful information about our life in our undergraduate community and download our latest Study Guide.

Events, tasters and talks

Meet us and find out more about studying at Imperial.

Find an event

Course data

Compare this course – chemistry with medicinal chemistry msci, compare this course – chemistry with medicinal chemistry and a year in industry msci, terms and conditions.

There are some important pieces of information you should be aware of when applying to Imperial. These include key information about your tuition fees, funding, visas, accommodation and more.

Read our terms and conditions

You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.

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• Postgraduate study
• Taught degree programmes A‑Z
• Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry

Postgraduate taught  

Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry MSc

The Masters in Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry will extend the depth and breadth of your knowledge in all branches of chemistry and with some specialisation in medicinal chemistry, this programme will be suited to the role of a professional chemist capable of conducting research.

• Teaching start: September
• MSc: 12 months full-time

Register your interest for more information

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Why this programme

• The School of Chemistry is a member of ScotCHEM that brings together seven Universities in Scotland. ScotCHEM is committed to excellence and to providing the highest quality postgraduate education and researcher experience.
• The school has an Athena Swan Bronze Award, demonstrating the school’s commitment to supporting women in scientific studies and careers, and to improving the working environment for all.
• You will benefit from our links with industrial scientists, often from pharmaceutical companies, who regularly visit the School of Chemistry to give presentations.
• You will undertake a research project embedded within one of our internationally-leading research groups, and supplemented by specialist lecture courses.
• You will develop transferable skills that will improve your career prospects, such as project management, team-working, advanced data analysis, problem-solving, preparing and presenting oral and poster presentations, critical evaluation of scientific literature, advanced laboratory and computing skills, and how to effectively communicate with different audiences.
• Our Masters programmes will, therefore, provide an excellent foundation for any kind of career of scientific leadership in academia and industry.

Programme structure

From September to March, you will attend lectures and tutorials. You will undertake a 12-week research project from June to August, which will provide practical application and consolidation of earlier work and enhance your ability to do independent work and present results effectively.

Core courses

• INORGANIC CHEMISTRY 4M (A)
• PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY 5M (HALF) FOR CHEMISTRY & MATHEMATICS
• ORGANIC CHEMISTRY 4M
• MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 4M
• FRONTIERS OF CHEMISTRY 3M
• RESEARCH SKILLS
• CHEMISTRY SPECIAL TOPICS 4M (A)

Programme alteration or discontinuation The University of Glasgow endeavours to run all programmes as advertised. In exceptional circumstances, however, the University may withdraw or alter a programme. For more information, please see: Student contract .

Career prospects

Career opportunities in the chemical or pharmaceutical industry, from bench work and instrumentation to regulatory affairs, health & safety, and intellectual property/patents. Research-related jobs usually require a PhD, for which this programme provides an ideal preparation.

Graduates of this programme have gone on to positions as researchers in pharmaceutical companies and universities.

Fees & funding

Tuition fees for 2024-25

• Full-time fee: £12150

International & EU

• Full-time fee: £30240

International and EU applicants are required to pay a deposit of  £2000 within four weeks  of an offer being made.

Deposits: terms & conditions

This programme requires some students to pay a deposit to secure their place.

If you are an international student, we will only issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) once the deposit has been paid.

Your offer letter will state:

• how to pay the deposit payment
• the deadline for paying the deposit

The following guidelines will apply in determining whether a deposit will be refunded. Where the deposit is refunded, a 25% handling fee will be deducted.

Deposits will be refunded to applicants under the following circumstances:

• Where the University is unable to offer you a place.
• Where the applicant has personal circumstances such as illness, bereavement or other family situations that has prevented them coming to the UK. Medical or other proof may be requested.
• Applicant can prove that they have applied for a visa to attend the University of Glasgow, but the VISA has been refused. The applicant must have shown 'real intent' to study at the University of Glasgow but has been unable to obtain their visa.
• Applicant does not meet his / her conditions of offer: this may be academic or language test requirements. Satisfactory evidence must be uploaded to the student’s applicant self-service to prove that they have not met the conditions of their offer (note that applicants who do not meet the language condition of their offer must show reasonable attempt to meet this, i.e. they must provide a language test which was taken after the date that the deposit was paid).

Deposits will not be refunded to applicants under the following circumstances:

• Applicant has decided to defer – in this situation the University will retain the deposit and credit it against the applicant’s account for securing their place for the following year of entry.

Refund requests must be made within 30 days of the programme start date stated on your offer letter.

Requests made after this date will be subject to discretion.

• Find out more about Deposits

Additional fees

• Fee for re-assessment of a dissertation (PGT programme): £370
• Submission of thesis after deadline lapsed: £350
• Registration/exam only fee: £170

Funding opportunities

• STEM in Scotland Scholarship

Postgraduate events

Open Days, information sessions, campus tours, events near you

Postgraduate prospectus

Medicinal Chemistry (MSc)

• Duration: 1 year
• Mode: Full time

Find out more about studying here as a postgraduate at our next Open Day .

Why study this course

Medicinal chemistry is an exciting and rapidly developing science concerned with the chemistry underpinning the design, discovery and development of new pharmaceuticals.

Industry connections

Our research partners range from local and national SMEs to some of the world's largest multinationals.

Research facilities

Following over £20 million investment, our facilities provide a superb environment for excellence.

Research project

Specialise in an area that interests you with an end of course research project. Some industrial and academic research placements are available in the UK or abroad.

The search for new drugs to combat serious illnesses is an important and exciting challenge at the forefront of medical research. As a medicinal chemist, you can have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of millions of people worldwide.

On the course, you will explore the wider context of drug discovery, business and healthcare, as well as developing the knowledge and laboratory skills needed to design drugs. You will also investigate the relationship between medicinal chemists and drug discovery companies with stakeholders such as patients, investors and governments.

There are opportunities for you to gain hands-on experience within a medicinal chemistry team during your research project.  

Accreditations

• Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Cardiff University has been an amazing experience for me so far. I got married and moved here, and my husband has studied in the same university, which is how I ended up choosing to study here too. Medicinal Chemistry has always been something I've wanted to study and I was so excited to see that it was being offered this year. The programme has been very involving and interesting and the lecturers have all been brilliant. They've been very supportive and patient and they have always made time to see me when I've needed help. I've made a lot of friends and I've loved every minute of being here.

Where you'll study

School of Chemistry

We are focused on tackling the important scientific challenges of the 21st century though internationally recognised education and research.

• Facilities Chevron right
• Research at the School of Chemistry Chevron right
• Academic staff Chevron right
• Telephone +44 (0)29 2087 4023
• Marker Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3AT

Admissions criteria

In order to be considered for an offer for this programme you will need to meet all of the entry requirements. Your application will not be progressed if the information and evidence listed is not provided.

With your online application you will need to provide:

• A copy of your degree certificate and transcripts which show you have achieved a 2:2 honours degree in a relevant subject area such as Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Pharmacology or Pharmacy, or an equivalent international degree. If your degree certificate or result is pending, please upload any interim transcripts or provisional certificates.
• A copy of your IELTS certificate with an overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or evidence of an accepted equivalent. Please include the date of your expected test if this qualification is pending. If you have alternative acceptable evidence, such as an undergraduate degree studied in the UK, please supply this in place of an IELTS.

If you do not have a degree in a relevant area you may still apply but should provide additional evidence to support your application such as a CV and references and will be required to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key chemical topics prior to an offer being made. 

Application Deadline

We allocate places on a first-come, first-served basis, so we recommend you apply as early as possible. Applications normally close at the end of August but may close sooner if all places are filled.

Selection process

We will review your application and if you meet all of the entry requirements, we will make you an offer.

Find out more about English language requirements .

Criminal convictions

You are not required to complete a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) check or provide a Certificate of Good Conduct to study this course.  

If you are currently subject to any licence condition or monitoring restriction that could affect your ability to successfully complete your studies, you will be required to disclose your criminal record. Conditions include, but are not limited to:

• access to lab facilities including chemicals
• access to computers or devices that can store images
• use of internet and communication tools/devices
• freedom of movement
• contact with people related to Cardiff University.

Course structure

This course may be taken on a one year full-time or three year part-time basis.

There are two parts to the degree. Part one is comprised of core and optional taught modules which you will take during the autumn and spring semesters. In these modules we will provide you with a foundation in the skills required by contemporary medicinal chemists, such as the techniques and trends in modern drug discovery. We will also look in more detail at the modelling of biological macromolecules and drug targets. We will then follow the process of drug development through from laboratory to clinic.

Upon successful completion of part one, you will progress to part two, the summer research project. We will make a range of project options available to you from the field of medicinal chemistry. For this project, depending on the subject you choose, you may work with a research group in the School of Chemistry or our partner, the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Studies. You may, if available, also be able to complete this project with one of our industrial partners or within another academic institution in the UK or abroad.

The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2024/25 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2024.

If you are on the one year full-time degree option, you will undertake all modules and your research project in one year.

The University is committed to providing a wide range of module options where possible, but please be aware that whilst every effort is made to offer choice this may be limited in certain circumstances. This is due to the fact that some modules have limited numbers of places available, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, while others have minimum student numbers required before they will run, to ensure that an appropriate quality of education can be delivered; some modules require students to have already taken particular subjects, and others are core or required on the programme you are taking. Modules may also be limited due to timetable clashes, and although the University works to minimise disruption to choice, we advise you to seek advice from the relevant School on the module choices available.

Learning and assessment

How will i be taught.

The methods of teaching we employ will vary from module to module, as appropriate depending on the subject matter and the method of assessment. We teach using a mixture of lectures, workshops, case studies, computer-aided sessions, practicals and tutorials.

Your research project will be carried out in one of our laboratories under supervision of an academic member of staff with interests in a similar field. You may have the opportunity to complete your project during a placement in industry or with one of our academic partner institutions overseas, depending on availability.

Modules relating to computing frequently take place in our computer rooms, while practical work will be undertaken in our laboratories. We will also invite industry experts for seminars with our students within one of the core modules. Students will also benefit of the weekly seminars organized by the School of Chemistry, where leading experts in various scientific fields are invited to present their work.

How will I be assessed?

Taught modules are assessed in a variety of different ways depending on the module content and learning outcomes (found in the module descriptions). We use coursework, assessed workshops and presentations or a combination of these to assess your progress on the course.

Your research project at the end of the course will be assessed through a dissertation, a presentation, and an oral exam.

How will I be supported?

All of our students are allocated a personal tutor when they enrol on the course. A personal tutor is there to support you during your studies, and can advise you on academic and personal matters that may be affecting you. You should have regular meetings with your personal tutor to ensure that you are fully supported.

You will have access to the Science Library, which holds our collection of chemistry resources, as well as to the other Cardiff University Libraries.

We will provide regular feedback on your workload, written and oral depending on the coursework or assessment you have undertaken. You will usually receive your feedback from the module leader. If you have questions regarding your feedback, module leaders are happy to give advice and guidance on your progress. We aim to provide you with feedback within two weeks of you submitting an assessment.

What skills will I practise and develop?

On completing the course you will have developed key skills, which can be applied to a variety of industrial and academic working environments. You will have gained learning skills, information handling and presentation skills. In detail you should be able to:

• Understand the theory, application, preparation and analysis of drug molecules to a level that is appropriate for graduates in chemistry or pharmaceutical sciences wishing to pursue a career in academia or industry.
• Apply modern laboratory methods to the preparation, purification, evolution and application of drug molecules.
• Understand the mechanism of action of a variety of molecules as therapeutic agents and apply this knowledge to unseen problems.
• Use molecular modelling to implement drug design.
• Critically evaluate novel drug targeting strategies and industry trends.
• Describe how new technologies are being employed to increase productivity in drug discovery.
• Describe and explain trends in drug approvals and drugs currently in the pipeline.
• Understand where medicinal chemistry fits within the context of the pharmaceutical industry.
• Work within a team to research solutions to unsolved problems in medicinal chemistry.
• Present research work to peers in both oral and written format.

The main reason I chose to study at Cardiff University is because it is well known for its quality of research in Chemistry and Pharmacy. My bachelor's degree is in pharmaceutical sciences, so I already have a good knowledge of chemistry. My aim is to develop new drugs and medicines. My educational background and career aims made the MSc in Medicinal Chemistry a perfect choice. The tuition on the programme is at the forefront of where medicinal science is today.

Tuition fees for 2024 entry

Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on your fee status. Your fee status could be home, island or overseas.

Learn how we decide your fee status

Fees for home status

Students from the eu, eea and switzerland.

If you are an EU, EEA or Swiss national, your tuition fees for 2024/25 be in line with the overseas fees for international students, unless you qualify for home fee status. UKCISA have provided information about Brexit and tuition fees .

Fees for island status

Learn more about the postgraduate fees for students from the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man .

Fees for overseas status

More information about tuition fees and deposits , including for part-time and continuing students.

Financial support

Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. For more information visit our funding section. Please note that these sources of financial support are limited and therefore not everyone who meets the criteria are guaranteed to receive the support.

Additional costs

The School covers the cost of everything that is an essential part of the programme, this will be clearly detailed in all programme information and in any verbal instructions given by tutors.

Will I need any specific equipment to study this course/programme?

You will need safety glasses and a lab coat to work in our laboratories, which will be provided by the School of Chemistry. We will provide any other equipment that is essential to the course. However, we recommend that you bring a laptop computer with appropriate software (e.g. word processing), USB or a hard drive, general stationary and some basic drawing equipment.

The chemical drawing software used in our teaching (ChemDraw) is available on University networked computers, and will be made available to you for download free of charge.

During the course, you will have access to the Science Library, and other University libraries, on-line library resources and study spaces across campus.

Living costs

We’re based in one of the UK’s most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff .

Master's Scholarships

An award open to UK students intending to study one of our taught master’s degrees.

Postgraduate loans

If you are starting your master’s degree in September 2024 or later, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan to support your study at Cardiff University.

Alumni Discount

The alumni discount is available for Cardiff University graduates who are planning to start an eligible master's in 2024/25.

Careers and placements

Graduates are well suited to take up roles in the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical and biotech industries and in academia conducting research into new drugs. Our graduates pursue research-related roles within public and private research institutions, academic institutions, or hospital laboratories.

This course is also particularly suitable for those wishing to pursue further study at PhD level at Cardiff University and other top universities.

For the end of course research project we may have some placements available with one of our industrial partners or at another UK or overseas academic institution that we have an agreement with. Please enquire for further details.

Open Day visits

Make an enquiry, international, other course options, discover more.

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HESA Data: Copyright Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited 2021. The Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited cannot accept responsibility for any inferences or conclusions derived by third parties from its data. Data is from the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019/20, published by HESA in June 2022.

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