Explore how life and the systems within it exist at a molecular level to make exciting advances in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology whilst considering global health issues to develop your understanding of drug design. Biochemistry and Medicinal Chemistry at Keele delivers the knowledge and techniques to enable you to pursue a variety of careers in a range of sectors.**Why choose this course?**- Top 10 in England for Biochemistry (National Student Survey, 2021)- Develop your core practical skills in Keele's state-of-the-art laboratories- Enhance your employability with the opportunity to spend a year studying abroad- Professional accreditation pathways are available- Discover diverse cultures through an international year at a partner university across the globeMedicinal chemistry is aimed at students interested in working within the pharmaceutical sector. From understanding how pharmaceuticals interact with our bodies to exploring drug design to combat various diseases, the application of medicinal chemistry plays a vital part in prolonging and improving life.Biochemistry modules cover five core themes: macromolecular structure-function, metabolism and its control, genetics, cell biology and the applications of chemistry in the study of these. The course will give you a broad and varied grounding in modern biochemistry. You will explore the structure and function of biological molecules and metabolic processes, core chemical concepts and their application to the biological sciences and molecular cell biology.You will further develop skills in communicating to range of target audiences including producing a product information leaflet on an allocated drug or medication detailing key information on the structure, function and biological activity. These communication skills are further developed later in the course in a variety of formats, such as experimental project reports, literature reviews, research posters. The year concludes with our undergraduate student research conference where you will showcase the outcomes of your research project.The medicinal chemistry element of the course provides you with a strong grounding in core areas such as the principles of drug design. This focusses on understanding the interaction of small molecules with biological targets in the body and applying this to the design of drug molecules. During practical sessions you will learn advanced experimental techniques including handling air-sensitive reagents, and also complete a multi-step synthesis of nalidixic acid (the heterocyclic core of a new class of antibacterial agents) to mimic the processes used in the pharmaceutical industry. **About Keele**Keele University was established in 1949 by the former Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University. Founded to meet the needs of a changing world, Keele has always had a pioneering vision to be a different kind of university.We excel in both teaching and research, with some of the most satisfied students in England, and research that is changing lives for the better at a regional, national and global level.Our beautiful 600-acre campus is one of the biggest in Britain – but all the most important services and facilities are on your doorstep, with accommodation, teaching spaces, facilities including a medical centre, sports centre and pharmacy, and a range of shops, eateries and entertainment venues – including the Students’ Union – clustered around the centre.

Keele (Central)