The Human Biology element of this course is ideal if you’re interested in biology but are looking for a particular focus on the human body and how we’ve adapted to our environment. This course provides a broad understanding of the physiology of the body’s major systems as well as human health and disease and the relationship between the human body with the environment. The multidisciplinary approach to Human Biology is supported by input to the programme from staff with diverse expertise.

The Medicinal Chemistry element of the course will enable you to develop a deep understanding of the complex chemical and biological processes involved in the design and manufacture of drugs and other therapies for treating disease. This course prepares you to help solve problems at the intersection of chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology and pharmacology. The goal of medicinal chemistry is to support the search for new drugs to treat conditions such as heart disease and cancer. You’ll work in well-equipped laboratories, and learn to conduct effective independent research. You’ll develop essential skills for employment, such as problem solving, presentation and communication.

Human Biology graduates have pursued diverse careers including industry, genetics research, medical statistics, scientific writing, management and sales. Previous Human Biology graduates have gone into Medicine while many enter into MSc or PhD degree programmes. Human Biologists also enter careers dictated by the other subject of the combined degree programme including finance, journalism and teaching.

Our Medicinal Chemistry graduates have excellent employment prospects, whether at the cutting edge of drug discovery or in a wide range of related fields. You might go to work for a pharmaceutical company, either as a research scientist or in a more business related role. Alternatively, you might work in a different organisation as a development chemist, a research assistant, or a site chemist.