Chemistry with Drug Discovery

Chemistry with drug discovery combines the rigour of core chemical science with a specialist focus on one of its most medically important applications. Drug discovery is the process by which new medicines are identified, developed, and refined from candidate molecules to clinically effective treatments, requiring a deep understanding of disease biology, chemical synthesis, molecular interactions, and the pharmacological principles that determine how a drug behaves in the body. The combination of chemistry and drug discovery gives you both the foundational scientific training and the specialist knowledge to contribute to this work.

This five-year, full-time MSci programme at Strathclyde leads to an integrated Masters qualification and includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to engage with chemistry and drug discovery research in a different national and academic setting. The programme covers the core areas of organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry alongside specialist classes on disease targets, the design of selectively acting prototype drugs, synthetic and mimetic strategies in producing drug prototypes, and the refinement of promising compounds toward clinical development. The five-year duration allows for the additional depth of study and research experience that the MSci provides.

Graduates are well prepared for careers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, in academic research, and in the regulatory and clinical development dimensions of bringing new medicines to market. Roles in medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, drug development, and process chemistry are typical destinations for those drawn to the pharmaceutical sector. The MSci qualification also provides a strong foundation for doctoral research in chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or pharmacology, and for senior scientific roles in industry and academia.

Further postgraduate research or professional development in clinical science, regulatory affairs, or advanced synthesis is available to graduates who wish to develop specialist expertise.