MRes Analytical & Forensic Chemistry

The MRes Analytical & Forensic Chemistry programme is designed to introduce the students to a wide range of industry-standard and novel techniques applicable in forensic analysis. Career opportunities are available not only in the forensic sector, but the key problem-solving and analytical skills developed in forensic and analytical science are widely sought after in many other industrial sectors including the oil, gas, pharmaceutical, and food industries.

The programme promotes enhancement of technical understanding, with emphasis on problem-solving and team/group working, awareness and where possible, the practice of latest developments in the discipline and increased capability for independent learning and work through case studies and projects.

These will encourage students to accept responsibilities, formulating ideas proactively, dealing with open-ended and unfamiliar problems, planning and developing strategies, implementing and executing agreed plans, leading and managing teams where required, evaluating achievement against specification and plan and decision making. The elements within the curriculum of this programme aim to prepare students for their future.

Key Course Features

• Receive training in handling of skeletal remains from diverse and contemporary contexts.
• Undertake a tailored research project in industry, or through specialised facilitates.
• Develop systematic knowledge of forensic anthropology and bioarchaeology.
• Gain proficiency in the application of acquired knowledge to challenging scenarios.
• Build transferable skills enabling career progression and potential for doctoral study.

Assessment and Teaching

The programme will be delivered via blended learning meaning that teaching will encompass both online and classroom-based delivery, guest talks, tutorials, and laboratory workshops. This mode of delivery would mean that students can travel from a distance to study a programme, without having to commit to living in Wrexham full time as well as allowing more flexibility for those wishing to work alongside their studies. Each module takes the form of a learning package consisting of online resources such as videos, articles, quizzes, websites, discussion boards, etc. (accessed via the module space on Moodle), tutorial support meetings and, where appropriate, practical workshops.

In addition, the student will complete 100 hours of placement activity in an appropriate industry such as laboratories, hospitals, museums, fieldschools, education institutions or the police. Placements can be paid or voluntary and completed on a full time, part time or ad-hoc basis so long as they allow for adequate time to complete the assessments before the end of trimester 2. There is no restriction on where the placement is to be completed and students are encouraged to investigate a wide range of possibilities including international roles.

A range of summative assessment strategies will be used including formal examination, portfolio, reports, poster presentation, oral presentations, research and learning logs. These have been designed to reflect workplace requirements and developing technologies where appropriate. Students will receive formative assessment, particularly during the practical and self-study elements of the programme to ensure they can keep track of their progress and development.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this programme could go on to work in:

• Forensic Anthropology
• Bioarchaeology
• Human Osteology
• Forensic & Crime Scene Science.