Medicinal Chemistry
School of Physical and Geographical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences
Last Updated 23 January 2012

Principal Course Timetable Blocks 1


The School of Physical and Geographical Sciences offers modular courses in ‘Chemistry’ and ‘Medicinal Chemistry’ as well as modules within the Complementary Studies Programme.

Level I and II modules develop the underlying principles of Chemistry, whilst level III modules apply these principles to more advanced and specialised topics that reflect existing research interests within the School.

Medicinal Chemistry Dual Honours - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10035 Electrons in Atoms and Molecules C M 7.5 15
This module introduces the key chemical principles, models and vocabulary that underpin our understanding of atomic and molecular structure and chemical bonding and is complemented by a practical course that develops fundamental practical skills and the application of theoretical chemical principles. In addition, the range of learning activities is designed to initiate progress towards the development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of record-keeping, written communication, information literacy, presentation and numeracy.
CHE-10036 The Physical Basis of Chemical Processes C M 7.5 15
This module introduces the key chemical principles, models and vocabulary that underpins our understanding of the energetics and rates of chemical processes. The module includes a practical course in which core physical chemistry practical and employability skills are taught and practiced. The range of learning activities is designed to enable progress towards the development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of written and verbal communication, referencing, information literacy, presentation and numeracy.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10041 Navigating The Periodic Table C M 7.5 15
This module introduces the key chemical principles, models and concepts that underpin our understanding of the trends within the periodic table, and links them with modern applications found in our daily lives. The module includes a practical course in which core inorganic chemistry practical and employability skills are taught and practised.
CHE-10043 Making Organic Molecules C M 7.5 15
This module covers the reactions of saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons, alcohols, alkyl halides, carbonyls and aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds. Particular emphasis is given to the mechanistic and stereochemical aspects of reactions and to the intermediates involved. The lecture material is supported by a complementary laboratory course, workshops and problem classes. Students with future ambitions in chemistry or medicinal chemistry, in either an industrial or academic environment will gain key knowledge and experience in the design of novel organic molecules. Such skills are highly regarded across many scientific disciplines, providing job prospects in many arenas, including green chemistry, process chemistry, food chemistry, materials chemistry, colour chemistry, petrochemistry, agrochemistry and drug discovery.

Medicinal Chemistry Dual Honours - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20001 Organic Synthesis and Chirality C M 7.5 15
This is a core module for all chemistry and medicinal chemistry degree programmes at Keele and covers key topics in organic chemistry which highlight how chemical processes can be used to synthesize complex organic molecules. Concepts including stereochemistry and isomerism, and synthetic methodology using functional group interconversion and retrosynthesis are taught in an integrated manner through lectures, laboratory practicals and problem classes.
~ CHE-20002 Spectroscopic Methods C M 7.5 15
This module is an essential component of the Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry programmes at Keele and covers the theory and applications of spectroscopic techniques including Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, X-ray Diffraction, Mass Spectrometry, UV-visible and Vibrational Spectroscopy. The theory of each technique is explored in detail, and then the use of spectroscopic techniques to investigate inorganic and organic compounds is carried out via laboratory work and data handling exercises. In addition, the range of learning activities is designed to continue progress towards the development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of written communication, and information literacy.
CHE-20022 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20023 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20005 Drug Design Based on biological Targets C M 7.5 15
This is a core module for the medicinal chemistry degree programme at Keele and it develops and exemplifies the principles and methods that relate chemical structure to in vivo transport and biological activity of molecules. Topics covered include structure and function of the cell, basic biochemical processes, cellular building blocks, metabolism and biosynthesis, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, drug transport illustrated by prodrugs, substituent effects and structure-activity relationships, non-covalent forces and their role in enzyme and receptor binding, receptor classification and dose-response curves. Using these principles, drug design and mechanism of action are illustrated by modern examples of rational drug discovery. The course is taught through lectures, laboratory practicals and problem classes.
~ CHE-20006 Biophysical Chemistry C M 7.5 15
This is a core module for all medicinal chemistry degree programmes at Keele and covers selected topics in biophysical chemistry. These include properties of electrolyte solutions, enzyme kinetics and biomolecular structure and characterization, which are taught through lectures, laboratory practicals and problem classes. In addition, the range of learning activities is designed to further progress development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of record-keeping, written and oral communication, information literacy, presentation and numeracy.
CHE-20024 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad III EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20025 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad IV EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.

Medicinal Chemistry Dual Honours - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30006 Synthesis, Kinetics and Mechanism C M 7.5 15
This module is wide-ranging in its investigation of organic and inorganic reactions at different levels of detail and from various perspectives. By the end of the module you will be familiar with new concepts, reactions, ideas, terminology and methods of data analysis and interpretation, and you will be required to draw upon and integrate core chemical principles (in physical, organic and inorganic chemistry) learned during the 1st and 2nd year of the course in order to explain some of the fascinating chemistry you will encounter. You will also study original research papers that apply some of the topics covered in the module.
+ # CHE-30031 Biologically Important Molecules C M 7.5 15
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30002 Dual Honours Research Project - ISP C C 7.5 15
(Year long module) 100 hours laboratory total over two semesters
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30009 Research Topics in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry C M 7.5 15
This module examines wide-ranging topics that are of significant importance to research in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry. The topics covered are drawn from the research interests and expertise of academic staff and include topics such drug discovery, chemotherapy, bioorganic chemistry and metabolism, natural product chemistry, advanced synthetic organic reactions and the appropriate reactions mechanisms. You will become familiar with detailed aspects of contemporary research and will be able to integrate the topics with the concepts that you have previously studied during your course. You will also produce a critique of a peer-reviewed research paper involving the use of online databases.

Medicinal Chemistry Major - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10035 Electrons in Atoms and Molecules C M 7.5 15
This module introduces the key chemical principles, models and vocabulary that underpin our understanding of atomic and molecular structure and chemical bonding and is complemented by a practical course that develops fundamental practical skills and the application of theoretical chemical principles. In addition, the range of learning activities is designed to initiate progress towards the development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of record-keeping, written communication, information literacy, presentation and numeracy.
CHE-10036 The Physical Basis of Chemical Processes C M 7.5 15
This module introduces the key chemical principles, models and vocabulary that underpins our understanding of the energetics and rates of chemical processes. The module includes a practical course in which core physical chemistry practical and employability skills are taught and practiced. The range of learning activities is designed to enable progress towards the development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of written and verbal communication, referencing, information literacy, presentation and numeracy.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10041 Navigating The Periodic Table C M 7.5 15
This module introduces the key chemical principles, models and concepts that underpin our understanding of the trends within the periodic table, and links them with modern applications found in our daily lives. The module includes a practical course in which core inorganic chemistry practical and employability skills are taught and practised.
CHE-10043 Making Organic Molecules C M 7.5 15
This module covers the reactions of saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons, alcohols, alkyl halides, carbonyls and aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds. Particular emphasis is given to the mechanistic and stereochemical aspects of reactions and to the intermediates involved. The lecture material is supported by a complementary laboratory course, workshops and problem classes. Students with future ambitions in chemistry or medicinal chemistry, in either an industrial or academic environment will gain key knowledge and experience in the design of novel organic molecules. Such skills are highly regarded across many scientific disciplines, providing job prospects in many arenas, including green chemistry, process chemistry, food chemistry, materials chemistry, colour chemistry, petrochemistry, agrochemistry and drug discovery.

Medicinal Chemistry Major - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20001 Organic Synthesis and Chirality C M 7.5 15
This is a core module for all chemistry and medicinal chemistry degree programmes at Keele and covers key topics in organic chemistry which highlight how chemical processes can be used to synthesize complex organic molecules. Concepts including stereochemistry and isomerism, and synthetic methodology using functional group interconversion and retrosynthesis are taught in an integrated manner through lectures, laboratory practicals and problem classes.
~ CHE-20002 Spectroscopic Methods C M 7.5 15
This module is an essential component of the Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry programmes at Keele and covers the theory and applications of spectroscopic techniques including Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, X-ray Diffraction, Mass Spectrometry, UV-visible and Vibrational Spectroscopy. The theory of each technique is explored in detail, and then the use of spectroscopic techniques to investigate inorganic and organic compounds is carried out via laboratory work and data handling exercises. In addition, the range of learning activities is designed to continue progress towards the development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of written communication, and information literacy.
CHE-20022 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20023 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20005 Drug Design Based on biological Targets C M 7.5 15
This is a core module for the medicinal chemistry degree programme at Keele and it develops and exemplifies the principles and methods that relate chemical structure to in vivo transport and biological activity of molecules. Topics covered include structure and function of the cell, basic biochemical processes, cellular building blocks, metabolism and biosynthesis, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, drug transport illustrated by prodrugs, substituent effects and structure-activity relationships, non-covalent forces and their role in enzyme and receptor binding, receptor classification and dose-response curves. Using these principles, drug design and mechanism of action are illustrated by modern examples of rational drug discovery. The course is taught through lectures, laboratory practicals and problem classes.
~ CHE-20006 Biophysical Chemistry C M 7.5 15
This is a core module for all medicinal chemistry degree programmes at Keele and covers selected topics in biophysical chemistry. These include properties of electrolyte solutions, enzyme kinetics and biomolecular structure and characterization, which are taught through lectures, laboratory practicals and problem classes. In addition, the range of learning activities is designed to further progress development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of record-keeping, written and oral communication, information literacy, presentation and numeracy.
CHE-20024 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad III EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20025 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad IV EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.

Medicinal Chemistry Major - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30006 Synthesis, Kinetics and Mechanism C M 7.5 15
This module is wide-ranging in its investigation of organic and inorganic reactions at different levels of detail and from various perspectives. By the end of the module you will be familiar with new concepts, reactions, ideas, terminology and methods of data analysis and interpretation, and you will be required to draw upon and integrate core chemical principles (in physical, organic and inorganic chemistry) learned during the 1st and 2nd year of the course in order to explain some of the fascinating chemistry you will encounter. You will also study original research papers that apply some of the topics covered in the module.
+ # CHE-30031 Biologically Important Molecules C M 7.5 15
# LSC-30016 Structural Biology & Macromolecular Function O M 7.5 15
Advances in biotechnology, biology and biomedicine, and their impact on the quality of life, the economy, medicine and health care increasingly depend on the application of structural biology which provides detailed three-dimensional structural information at the atomic level of the proteins which are central to all life processes. While structural biology includes a variety of different techniques such as crystallography and electron microscopy, this module concentrates on the outcomes of these techniques rather than the techniques themselves, with in-depth analysis of how proteins, enzymes and viruses recognise and bind their targets, and how detailed structural information is used to intervene in or enhance these processes. An important aspect of health and well being in all forms of life is the ability to prevent, resist, fight and recover from infection and disease, and much of the course concentrates on how an increased understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved provides a unique opportunity for the design of potential diagnostic and therapeutic agents and strategies.
# LSC-30016 Structural Biology & Macromolecular Function EP M 7.5 15
Advances in biotechnology, biology and biomedicine, and their impact on the quality of life, the economy, medicine and health care increasingly depend on the application of structural biology which provides detailed three-dimensional structural information at the atomic level of the proteins which are central to all life processes. While structural biology includes a variety of different techniques such as crystallography and electron microscopy, this module concentrates on the outcomes of these techniques rather than the techniques themselves, with in-depth analysis of how proteins, enzymes and viruses recognise and bind their targets, and how detailed structural information is used to intervene in or enhance these processes. An important aspect of health and well being in all forms of life is the ability to prevent, resist, fight and recover from infection and disease, and much of the course concentrates on how an increased understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved provides a unique opportunity for the design of potential diagnostic and therapeutic agents and strategies.
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
+ # CHE-30030 Single Honours Research Project - ISP C C 15 30
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30009 Research Topics in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry C M 7.5 15
This module examines wide-ranging topics that are of significant importance to research in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry. The topics covered are drawn from the research interests and expertise of academic staff and include topics such drug discovery, chemotherapy, bioorganic chemistry and metabolism, natural product chemistry, advanced synthetic organic reactions and the appropriate reactions mechanisms. You will become familiar with detailed aspects of contemporary research and will be able to integrate the topics with the concepts that you have previously studied during your course. You will also produce a critique of a peer-reviewed research paper involving the use of online databases.
CHE-30032 Advanced Chemical Analysis C M 7.5 15
This module equips students with hands-on experience and an in-depth knowledge of a wide range of modern instrument-based analytical techniques and procedures and the skills to apply this knowledge to solve problems and characterise the structures of unknown chemicals and materials.
# LSC-30018 Biochemistry and Therapy of Disease O M 7.5 15
This module is intended to describe and promote understanding of the molecular basis of therapeutic intervention in a range of diseases, including bacterial, neurodegenerative, parasitic and neoplastic pathologies. It will also address the questions arising from the failure of disease therapies and describe the molecular events underlying resistance to therapy. 2 lectures
# LSC-30018 Biochemistry and Therapy of Disease EP M 7.5 15
This module is intended to describe and promote understanding of the molecular basis of therapeutic intervention in a range of diseases, including bacterial, neurodegenerative, parasitic and neoplastic pathologies. It will also address the questions arising from the failure of disease therapies and describe the molecular events underlying resistance to therapy. 2 lectures

Medicinal Chemistry Minor - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10035 Electrons in Atoms and Molecules C M 7.5 15
This module introduces the key chemical principles, models and vocabulary that underpin our understanding of atomic and molecular structure and chemical bonding and is complemented by a practical course that develops fundamental practical skills and the application of theoretical chemical principles. In addition, the range of learning activities is designed to initiate progress towards the development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of record-keeping, written communication, information literacy, presentation and numeracy.
CHE-10036 The Physical Basis of Chemical Processes C M 7.5 15
This module introduces the key chemical principles, models and vocabulary that underpins our understanding of the energetics and rates of chemical processes. The module includes a practical course in which core physical chemistry practical and employability skills are taught and practiced. The range of learning activities is designed to enable progress towards the development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of written and verbal communication, referencing, information literacy, presentation and numeracy.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10041 Navigating The Periodic Table C M 7.5 15
This module introduces the key chemical principles, models and concepts that underpin our understanding of the trends within the periodic table, and links them with modern applications found in our daily lives. The module includes a practical course in which core inorganic chemistry practical and employability skills are taught and practised.
CHE-10043 Making Organic Molecules C M 7.5 15
This module covers the reactions of saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons, alcohols, alkyl halides, carbonyls and aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds. Particular emphasis is given to the mechanistic and stereochemical aspects of reactions and to the intermediates involved. The lecture material is supported by a complementary laboratory course, workshops and problem classes. Students with future ambitions in chemistry or medicinal chemistry, in either an industrial or academic environment will gain key knowledge and experience in the design of novel organic molecules. Such skills are highly regarded across many scientific disciplines, providing job prospects in many arenas, including green chemistry, process chemistry, food chemistry, materials chemistry, colour chemistry, petrochemistry, agrochemistry and drug discovery.

Medicinal Chemistry Minor - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20001 Organic Synthesis and Chirality C M 7.5 15
This is a core module for all chemistry and medicinal chemistry degree programmes at Keele and covers key topics in organic chemistry which highlight how chemical processes can be used to synthesize complex organic molecules. Concepts including stereochemistry and isomerism, and synthetic methodology using functional group interconversion and retrosynthesis are taught in an integrated manner through lectures, laboratory practicals and problem classes.
~ CHE-20002 Spectroscopic Methods C M 7.5 15
This module is an essential component of the Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry programmes at Keele and covers the theory and applications of spectroscopic techniques including Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, X-ray Diffraction, Mass Spectrometry, UV-visible and Vibrational Spectroscopy. The theory of each technique is explored in detail, and then the use of spectroscopic techniques to investigate inorganic and organic compounds is carried out via laboratory work and data handling exercises. In addition, the range of learning activities is designed to continue progress towards the development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of written communication, and information literacy.
CHE-20022 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20023 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20005 Drug Design Based on biological Targets C M 7.5 15
This is a core module for the medicinal chemistry degree programme at Keele and it develops and exemplifies the principles and methods that relate chemical structure to in vivo transport and biological activity of molecules. Topics covered include structure and function of the cell, basic biochemical processes, cellular building blocks, metabolism and biosynthesis, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, drug transport illustrated by prodrugs, substituent effects and structure-activity relationships, non-covalent forces and their role in enzyme and receptor binding, receptor classification and dose-response curves. Using these principles, drug design and mechanism of action are illustrated by modern examples of rational drug discovery. The course is taught through lectures, laboratory practicals and problem classes.
~ CHE-20006 Biophysical Chemistry C M 7.5 15
This is a core module for all medicinal chemistry degree programmes at Keele and covers selected topics in biophysical chemistry. These include properties of electrolyte solutions, enzyme kinetics and biomolecular structure and characterization, which are taught through lectures, laboratory practicals and problem classes. In addition, the range of learning activities is designed to further progress development of Keele's Graduate Attributes with an emphasis on high standards of record-keeping, written and oral communication, information literacy, presentation and numeracy.
CHE-20024 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad III EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20025 Medicinal Chemistry - Study Abroad IV EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.

Medicinal Chemistry Minor - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30006 Synthesis, Kinetics and Mechanism EP M 7.5 15
This module is wide-ranging in its investigation of organic and inorganic reactions at different levels of detail and from various perspectives. By the end of the module you will be familiar with new concepts, reactions, ideas, terminology and methods of data analysis and interpretation, and you will be required to draw upon and integrate core chemical principles (in physical, organic and inorganic chemistry) learned during the 1st and 2nd year of the course in order to explain some of the fascinating chemistry you will encounter. You will also study original research papers that apply some of the topics covered in the module.
+ # CHE-30031 Biologically Important Molecules EP M 7.5 15
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30009 Research Topics in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry EP M 7.5 15
This module examines wide-ranging topics that are of significant importance to research in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry. The topics covered are drawn from the research interests and expertise of academic staff and include topics such drug discovery, chemotherapy, bioorganic chemistry and metabolism, natural product chemistry, advanced synthetic organic reactions and the appropriate reactions mechanisms. You will become familiar with detailed aspects of contemporary research and will be able to integrate the topics with the concepts that you have previously studied during your course. You will also produce a critique of a peer-reviewed research paper involving the use of online databases.
C Compulsory Core Module
O Optional Core Module
EP Programme Elective Module
EA Approved Elective Module
EF Free-Standing Elective Module
M Mixed Assessment e.g. a mixture of essay(s) and examination, with the latter's weighting below 90%.
E Examination, providing 90% or more of the mark.
C Continuous Assessment e.g. essay(s) or practical work (as appropriate).
+ Available to qualified non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students but there may be a restriction on the number of places available
~ Specific pre-requisite(s) needed by non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students wishing to take these modules
# Not normally available to Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students (except by prior negotiation with Departmental Tutor)
Note: Modules not marked with a # are available to suitably qualified Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students.