MSc Drug Design and Discovery

This course integrates classical natural products-based drug discovery methods, involving extraction, assay-based functional fractionation, isolation, characterisation, and target validation. However, with the discovery of antimicrobials against multidrug resistant strains of bacteria, the syllabus also explores molecular target-based drug discovery and molecular modelling.

Available with full and part-time study routes, the course equips science graduate and industry professionals with analytical techniques and problem-solving skills so they can thrive in the pharmaceutical revolution.

It is an exciting time for chemists to be involved in biomedical research. Following the completion of the Human Genome Project, the pharmaceutical industry is preparing for a revolution in cancer and inherited disorder therapies.

The Drug Design and Discovery postgraduate programme at Salford is designed to nurture the next generation of bioscientists working at the interface between biology and chemistry, ready to apply pharmaceutical and analytical knowledge to improve quality of life.

You will:

• Learn where chemistry, nanotechnology and genome technology is pushing the boundaries of biomedical research
• Acquire strong training in drug synthesis and analytical methods, natural product chemistry and molecular modelling
• Develop transferable skills relevant to a wide variety of professional careers, including analytical techniques and problem-solving skills

Employment

This programme will prepare you for career progression into research, academia and related employment fields. With growing interest in biotechnology fuelled by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is anticipated that new research and work opportunities will arise.

The course can open up career opportunities in research, teaching and many other professions, including cosmetic science, animal health, food science, medical laboratory research, patent law, scientific journalism and health and safety.

Course alumni have secured roles working as research associates, in technical roles, or with pharmaceutical companies.

CAREER LINKS

Salford is well-positioned to provide you with access to career networks and research opportunities. Locally, the North West is the fastest-growing employment region outside of London in science and biomedical science-based vacancies.

The University is driven by industry collaboration, and we ensure that learning is enriched by our partners and networks. Course modules include industrial site visits and opportunities to engage with research projects carried out at other institutions (recently Universities in Bremen or France and the Paterson Institute, UK). We also invite guest lecturers to share their expertise in relevant scientific fields.

Salford runs a regular Postgraduate Research Seminar Series in which experts from outside the University share their knowledge and latest research findings.