Biological and Medicinal Chemistry

Overview

Chemists with a good understanding of the biosciences and an ability to apply their chemistry knowledge to biological and medicinal problems are in high demand.

The interface of chemistry and bioscience is one of the leading areas driving 21st century research and development. Science is becoming more and more interdisciplinary as we seek solutions for environmental problems, such as carbon capture and the ability to do greener chemistry, and the development of targeted and personalised medicines. 

Many of the most important recent discoveries have been made at the interfaces of chemistry and biology, and chemists are needing to become well versed in both biological and medicinal chemistry. This degree course has evolved to reflect this and will equip you with the traditional tools of organic synthesis and the necessary biology and biochemistry you need to succeed. We will give you hands-on experience across a range of disciplines, even including areas such as computational chemistry to solve medicinal and biological chemistry problems.

The University of Bradford is home to the School of Chemistry and Biosciences, which is one of UKs leading departments working at the interface of the molecular and life sciences. The School has significant expertise in biomaterials, structure, discovery of antibiotics and physiology alongside the traditional chemistry disciplines and students benefit from a unique multi-disciplinary environment. From your very first day as a student in chemistry, you will be taught by scientists working in the School of Chemistry and Biosciences who are actively involved in discovering new drugs and understanding complex biological processes and disease mechanisms.

During the first two years of study you will develop a sound understanding of theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry, with core content delivered across organic, inorganic, physical and biological chemistry with options in other biosciences. 

The third year we will introduce you to specialist content in medicinal chemistry and biological chemistry, including topics such as bioorganic and bioinorganic chemistry. Taught components at this level include both chemistry and bioscience modules. You will also have the opportunity to study a specific subject across chemistry and the biosciences to a greater depth during an extended dissertation.

It is possible to exit after stage 3 with a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry.

In the Master's year you will develop a deeper understanding of the application of chemistry in the life sciences. Master's-level training focuses on developing a depth of knowledge within medicinal and biological chemistry that is linked to real-world problems.  For a significant part of this year you will work on a research project within leading research teams at the interface of chemistry and biosciences.

As a student, you can apply for membership of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). 

Our BSc and MChem Chemistry programmes received 94% overall student satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2020.