Throughout the course, you'll have the opportunity to develop your knowledge and understanding of the drug discovery process and the role of toxicology in developing safe medicines.

The course 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 he emphasis on recent examples of chemical and biological approaches to developing 21st Century medicines.

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.

You'll have the opportunity to complete a laboratory based research project in you chosen area of interest ranging across options in toxicology and pharmacology of drug discovery.

Currently available projects include:

• Gastrointestinal pharmacology
• Angiogenesis
• Cancer
• Molecular pharmacology of vascular disease
• Diabetic neuropathic pain
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Toxicology of new smoking devices
• Toxicology of novel psychoactive substances

Upon graduation, you 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.

Professional Accreditations

Subject to validation, this course will be accrediated by the Royal Society for Biology Accreditation.