MSc Drug Discovery and Toxicology

About the course

This programme gives you in-depth knowledge of the scientific basis of drug discovery with a particular emphasis on toxicology, the science behind the safety of drugs. We make full use of our geographical location at the heart of the UK Pharmaceutical industry attracting numerous expert contributions from industry professionals (e.g. GSK, AZ). The course will cover all aspects of new medicine research and development from identifying novel targets through drug screening to clinical trials of candidate medicines. With our excellent facilities, emphasis on practical work, and teaching underpinned by the latest research, you will be qualified for research and development positions in pharmaceutical companies including discovery biology and toxicology, as well as a wide range of other non-laboratory roles in industry.

Why choose this course?

• This course is a natural progression for anyone completing an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Pharmacology or Pharmaceutical Sciences, who is interested in a career in the Pharmaceutical industry.
• The course will enable you to apply your biosciences knowledge to the particular challenges of developing safe and effective medicines.
• Our state of the art Science Building provides excellent facilities for laboratory based studies, including cell culture and plate reader based assays, isolated tissue studies, immunohistochemistry.
• We make full use of our geographical location at the heart of the UK Pharmaceutical industry attracting numerous expert contributions from industry professionals.
• Offered as a part-time option to suit students who may already be in employment and wish to broaden their knowledge of the industry with support from their employer.

What will I study?

The MSc Drug Discovery and Toxicology Course will provide students with the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of the drug discovery process and the role of toxicology in developing safe medicines. The programme comprises four taught modules and a project module. In Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology students study the essential aspects of these topics that provide a necessary background for contemporary drug discovery. A focus on immunology reflects the growing understanding of the contribution of this area to disease and hence novel opportunities for drug discovery. The Translational medicine module explores the process of drug discovery with a particular emphasis on translation, developing molecules that will eventually work in human patients as well as in a laboratory. Molecular Medicine explores with the emphasis on recent examples of chemical and biological approaches to developing 21st Century medicines and Contemporary topics in Drug Discovery and Toxicology provides a focus on recent developments in drug safety science. A problem-based learning approach is integral to develop advanced critical analysis and group working skills in students’ on the programme.

Professional Accreditations

This course will be accrediated by the Royal Society for Biology Accreditation.

What job can I get?

Graduates of the MSc Drug Discovery and Toxicology may go on to work in a broad range of fields including: Toxicology research, pharmaceutical research, clinical trials, clinical toxicology, forensic toxicology, food safety, academia research, medical writing/science journalism, UK government departments, education, or patent law. Alternatively, you may also use the MSc in Drug Discovery and Toxicology to underpin an application to study for a research degree such as MRes, MSc by Research, or a PhD in a related field.