Biomedical Sciences
Biomedical Sciences with a specialisation in Pharmacology addresses the science of how drugs and other chemical compounds interact with biological systems, how medicines are developed, and how they can be used most effectively and safely. Pharmacology is a discipline that sits at the boundary of biology and chemistry, examining the molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms through which substances affect the body, whether beneficially or harmfully. It is a field of direct relevance to one of the world's most important industries and to the improvement of health outcomes for patients.
At the University of Aberdeen, this four-year full-time programme includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to experience biomedical research in an international context. The Aberdeen degree follows the Scottish four-year structure, giving you greater breadth in the earlier years before specialising in pharmacology. You will study cell biology, biochemistry, physiology, and molecular biology alongside the specific pharmacological content covering drug targets, receptor pharmacology, toxicology, and the drug discovery and development process.
Laboratory work is central throughout, developing your practical skills in techniques used across the pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences.
Biomedical Sciences graduates with pharmacology expertise are in strong demand in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, which recruit heavily for roles in research and development, drug discovery, regulatory affairs, and quality control. The NHS employs biomedical scientists in clinical laboratory settings, and public health agencies and contract research organisations are further employers. Many graduates pursue postgraduate study, whether a PhD in pharmacology or drug discovery, a Masters in clinical pharmacology or toxicology, or a graduate-entry medical programme.
The year abroad provides international research experience that is particularly valuable for those considering academic or industrial research careers.