Undergraduate Degrees

BSc Biological and Medicinal Chemistry ( F125 )

UCAS Course Code:: F125
Duration:: 3 years
Attendance:: Full Time
Award:: Degree of Bachelor of Science
School of Study:: Chemistry
Brochure:: School of Chemistry Undergraduate Course Brochure (PDF)
Typical A-Level Offer:: ABB including Chemistry and a second science

Overview
Why Choose Us
Course Profile
Requirements
Fees and Funding
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Today, chemists play increasingly important roles in the quest to understand biological systems. For example, they are involved in finding out precisely how the different types of biomolecules found in our bodies and in microbes function, in determining the structures of very large and complex molecules, in working out how such molecules interact in cells, and in the design and synthesis of new drug molecules that can affect the properties and behaviour of cells, to name a few.

The work of biological chemists, therefore, has and will have a massive impact not only on areas such as human health and wellbeing, but also in the potential exploitation of biology for environmental and economic benefit. The huge and growing importance of this area of chemistry is illustrated by the fact that more than one third of all the Nobel Prizes awarded for Chemistry during the past 30 years, and more than half of those awarded during the past 10 years, have been for contributions at the chemistry/biology interface.

If your particular interests lie in both chemistry and biology, then our BSc honours degree in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry could be exactly what you’re looking for. This three year programme starts off by providing a solid foundation in the principles of chemistry (taught alongside other chemists) and also an introduction to biochemistry and molecular biology. This base is built upon further in years 2 and 3, with an increasing emphasis on how chemical principles can be applied to understand, influence, harness and exploit biology. Biological and medicinal chemistry is fundamentally a practical subject and extensive training in experimental techniques and methods in both chemistry and biology, delivered in high specification teaching laboratories, is an important part of the experience at UEA. During year 3, students have the opportunity to gain significant experience of a research environment through a research project undertaken in one of the School’s research laboratories.

Our unique programme, although based in the School of Chemistry, is taught jointly by faculty from the School of Biological Sciences, thus ensuring that both the chemical and biological components of the course are delivered by subject specific experts. In addition, the research-leading standing of both Schools ensures that many, if not all, of the faculty teaching on the programme are, themselves, internationally leading researchers.

If you are sure that biological and medicinal chemistry is for you but are uncertain about whether you want to study for a BSc or a Masters level qualification, please be reassured that the School of Chemistry also offers a four year MChem honours degree in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry, and transfer between the two courses is straightforward during the first two years because of a common underlying structure. Transfer on to the MChem programme is based on academic merit.

At the end of three years, our BSc students graduate with extensive subject-specific knowledge and understanding that makes them highly attractive to potential employers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnologies industries. Some opt to study for a post-graduate higher degree in their favourite area of research, or to use their degree to enter teacher training or medicine. Some also chose to do other things and a good science degree, together with the range of transferrable skills they’ll have acquired along the way, opens doors to many other possibilities.

Course Organiser:Fraser Macmillan

Why choose us?

During your first week at UEA, our staff will welcome you and provide a full induction programme; we aim to help our students settle in as quickly as possible. At the School of Chemistry we believe in offering each student individual care and guidance.

On your arrival at UEA you will be assigned to an adviser who will provide both academic and pastoral guidance. You will normally have the same adviser throughout your degree. We maintain an ‘open door policy’ so that students can see their adviser (or other members of staff) at any mutually convenient time. Your adviser will guide you through your academic career and provide a sympathetic ear during difficult times. If you study abroad for a year you will also be assigned an adviser at your host institution.

The University has excellent provision of specialist support services. Whatever the issue, be it financial, personal, academic or administrative - the University’s Dean of Students Office and the Union of UEA Students’ support services have experienced and sympathetic people, support groups and advice centres to help you.

Top-rated research

Research is a key activity in any major academic institution. It offers scope for advanced thinking, helps attract the keenest minds, and ensures that the institution’s work is at the cutting edge of the discipline. Most importantly, the creativity, resourcefulness and authority fostered by first class research feeds directly into the quality of teaching at the University. UEA’s School of Chemistry has an enviable reputation for its long and distinguished tradition of high quality research. In the latest RAE (Research Assessment Exercise) the School was ranked among the top 20 Chemistry departments. Our research work is currently financed by a grant holding of over £11 million won competitively from sources including the National Research Councils, charitable trusts (including the Wellcome and Wolfson Trusts), industrial companies (especially from the pharmaceutical industry) and the European Union. We have over 70 postgraduate research students, many of whom completed their undergraduate studies at UEA.

Key research in the School includes Physical and Analytical Chemistry, Synthetic Chemistry, Biological and Biophysical Chemistry, Nanoscience, Biomedicinal Chemistry and Forensic Chemistry.

Many of our core MChem degrees are accredited, and all other Chemistry programmes are recognised, by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), the professional body for career chemists, or the Institute of Physics (IoP).

Reasons to choose us:

A top 20 research school (RAE 2008)
Research led, up-to-date teaching
The University has consistently been voted top five of English mainstream Universities for Student Satisfaction
Enthusiastic and friendly staff
Superb laboratory and IT facilities
Excellent academic and student support services
Varied and comprehensive range of degree programmes
A warm, welcoming campus environment
Active student social scene within the school
At the forefront of interdisciplinary research

Compulsory Study (100 credits)

Students must study the following modules for 100 credits:

Name	Code	Credits
BONDING, STRUCTURE & PERIODICITY	CHE-1C3Y	20
This module is in part integrated with CHE-1C1Y. The first half of the module brings together fundamental concepts associated with the bonding and structure of inorganic and organic materials, including atomic structure, electron configurations, ionic and covalent bonding, and intermolecular forces. The second half of the module builds on the bonding and structural ideas to explain the structure of the Periodic Table. Trends, comparisons and contrasts will be drawn between the elements of the s/p block metals, non-metals and the transition metals. Spectroscopic and other experimental techniques are employed.
CHEMISTRY LABORATORY (B)	CHE-1H0Y	10
This 10 credit module comprises laboratory and related IT experiments/ modules relating to aspects of the core chemistry lecture modules. Each student's choice of experiments will depend on the specific degree programme being followed.
CHEMISTRY OF CARBON-BASED COMPOUNDS	CHE-1C1Y	20
Compatible with CHE 1C3Y, or a free-standing module with workload greater than average for 20 credits. The module introduces bonding and hybridisation, conjugation and aromaticity, mechanism and functional groups; principles which are elucidated in topics: electrophilic substitution and addition, organometallic nucleophiles, polar multiple bonds, enolate, Claisen, and Mannich reactions, the Strecker synthesis, stereochemistry (enantiomers and diastereoisomers), SN1/SN2 and E1/E2 reactions, and epoxidation / 1,2-addition to alkenes. Finally, synthesis (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, alkyl halides, ethers, amines, ketones, carboxylic acids) and bio-organic chemistry are introduced.
FUNDAMENTALS OF CELL BIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY	BIO-1A14	20
The unit aims to provide an introduction to the basic aspects of biochemistry, cell biology. Basic biochemical processes will be explored, as well as catalysis and enzymology. There will be an introduction to the nature of the living cell, its membranes, and organelles, how cells communicate and also how they are visualised. This unit will also provide an introduction to developmental biology.
FUNDAMENTALS OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND GENETICS	BIO-1A13	20
The module aims to provide an introduction to the basic aspects of biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics. The module explores the fundamental properties of macromolecules, DNA structure, synthesis and replication, as well as the structure and function of proteins. The genetic code, genes and their expression will be covered as well as the rapidly expanding area of molecular biology. The module also covers chromosome structure, mechanisms of heredity, medical genetics and cytogenetics.
PHYSICAL BIOCHEMISTRY	BIO-1A15	10
THIS MODULE IS RUNNING IN 2012/3 ONLY. BIO-1A15 is open to students registered on Biochemistry, Biomedicine, Biological and Medicinal Chemistry, Science with a Foundation Year and Natural Science degree programmes. This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the physical principles that underpin understanding of biological systems, drugs and the interactions between them. Topics that are discussed include thermodynamics, kinetics, acid-base chemistry, electrochemistry and spectroscopy. Students must have A-Level chemistry or equivalent. THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO YEAR 1 STUDENTS. THIS MODULE IS NOT AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS.

Option A Study (20 credits)

Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:

Name	Code	Credits
ELEMENTS OF CHEMICAL PHYSICS	CHE-1H26	10
This course comprises a series of lectures on modern aspects of physics of particular interest in molecular scientists.
GENETICS FOR FORENSIC SCIENTISTS	CHE-1H56	10
This module introduces the student to the fundamentals of DNA and biotechnology essential for an understanding of forensics technologies. Topics covered include: nucleic acid/chromosome structure, replication, mutation and repair; concepts of genetic inheritance; DNA manipulation and visualisation; DNA sequencing; DNA fingerprinting.
MATHEMATICAL PRINCIPLES	CHE-1H61	10
The module provides students without A-level Mathematics with the basic skills necessary for the appreciation of the more mathematical and quantitative aspects of chemistry. It includes an introduction to differential and integral calculus. It is not available to students with A-level Mathematics.
MATHEMATICS FOR SCIENTISTS 1	ENV-1A61	10
This module is designed for those students with good maths and a Grade C or above in 'A' level Mathematics. Topics include differentiation and integration, Taylor and Maclaurin series, complex numbers, vector algebra, partial differentiations. Previous knowledge of calculus is assumed.
MATHEMATICS FOR SCIENTISTS II	ENV-1A62	10
This module is the second in a series of four mathematical modules for students across the Faculty of Science. It continues the basic calculus of ENV-1A61 into the study of ordinary differential equations that are used to mathematically model many different systems across the sciences, and the use of further integrals to calculate lengths of lines, surface areas, and volumes. Power series expansions are used to represent and simplify functions, and an introduction to complex numbers is given. There is a continuing emphasis on applied examples, and the use of numerical computing software (Matlab).
PHYSICAL PRINCIPLES	CHE-1H63	10
This module provides students without A-level Physics with an introduction to the basic physical principles necessary for a more complete understanding of chemistry and related subjects. It is not available to students with an A-level of grade C or above in Physics.
PHYSICS FOR SCIENTISTS	CHE-1H25	10
This module includes material aimed primarily at science students with 'A' level physics and mathematics who wish to study further physics. The material covered will expand on some of the topics from the 'A' level syllabus.
SPECIAL TOPICS IN CHEMISTRY 1	CHE-1H93	10
This unit comprises a broadly-based series of lectures on science, coupled with written activities based upon them. The twin objectives are to provide a contextual backdrop to the more focussed studies in other concurrent and subsequent units, and to engage students as participants in researching and presenting related information.

Compulsory Study (100 credits)

Students must study the following modules for 100 credits:

Name	Code	Credits
BIOCHEMISTRY	BIO-2B01	20
This module builds on the principles of biochemistry taught in BIO-1A14. Selected topics in intermediary metabolism are covered in greater depth and extended to include the specific roles of coenzymes in metabolic pathways. In turn this leads to a discussion of the roles of hormone-receptor interactions and signal transduction in metabolic regulation. The recent contributions of structural biology to cellular bioenergetics are acknowledged in both the lecture series and associated practical classes, whilst ATP utilization is illustrated by consideration of the active transport of molecules across membranes in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
BIOPHYSICAL CHEMISTRY	CHE-2F7Y	20
The unit is an introduction to aspects of physical chemistry relevant to biology. Topics include: protein structure and stability,interatomic and intermolecular forces and their influence on biomoloecluar structure, X-ray crystallography, electronic, fluorescence and circular dichroism spectroscopies, hydrodynamic techniques, ligand binding to macromolecules, and enzyme kinetics. The coursework involves practical laboratory work and course tests. Students are required to have taken on of the laboratory units CHE-1C0Y, CHE-1E0Y or CHE-1H0Y in addition to the PP/PS units above, before taking this unit.
MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY	CHE-2F8Y	20
This module is concerned with the broad aspects of medicinal chemistry, from the discovery of lead compounds and the recognition of biological activity, to the production of pharmaceuticals. Biological activity is discussed in terms of metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and structure-activity relationships (SAR). Drug targets and their exploitation in drug therapies are also discussed. The medicinal chemistry content of this module contains aspects of both chemistry and biology. Therefore the course is started with a series of chemistry 'introductory' seminars relevant to BIO students and a series of biology seminars are provided containing underlying principles relevant to CHEM students.
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY	BIO-2B02	20
The module provides an introduction to the principles of molecular biology. The programme starts with the structure of DNA, genes and genomes, followed by characterisation of the information flow including the mechanisms and regulation of transcription and translation. Protein folding, modification and turnover are described together with reactions concerning DNA (replication, recombination and repair). The module ends with a detailed description of methods used for the experimental manipulation of genetic material (gene isolation, DNA sequencing, polymerase chain reaction, molecular cloning, transgenic plants and animals and global functional genomics).
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY	CHE-2C11	20
The topics covered in the module include an introduction to organic synthesis, carbon-carbon bond forming reactions, aromaticity, heterocyclic chemistry, and stereochemistry and mechanism. The module includes laboratory work. Students are required to have taken one of the laboratory modules CHE-1C0Y, CHE-1H0Y or CHE-1E0Y as well as CHE-1C1Y before taking this module.

Option A Study (20 credits)

Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:

Name	Code	Credits
CELL BIOLOGY	BIO-2B06	20
This module explores the molecular organisation of cells and the regulation of dynamic cellular changes, with some emphasis on medical cell biology. Dynamic properties of cell membranes, cell signalling, growth factor function and aspects of cancer biology and immunology. Regulation of the internal cell environment (nuclear organisation and information flow, cell growth, division and motility), the relationship of the cell to its extracellular matrix and the determination of cell phenotype. Aspects of cell death, the ageing process, developmental biology, mechanisms of tissue renewal and repair. It is strongly recommended that students taking this module should also take BIO-2B02 or BIO-2B17.
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY	CHE-2C32	20
The central theme of the module is the chemistry of the p and d block elements: structure and bonding, coordination complexes and the organometallic chemistry of main group and transition metals. The module includes laboratory work. Students are required to have taken one of the laboratory module CHE-1C0Y, CHE-1E0Y or CHE-1H0Y as well as CHE-1C3Y before taking this module.

Compulsory Study (50 credits)

Students must study the following modules for 50 credits:

Name	Code	Credits
NATURAL PRODUCTS AND DRUGS A	CHE-3H16	10
The module examines examples of biogenesis, chemical synthesis, and biological action, of selected products and pharmaceutical chemicals. The emphasis is on the organic chemistry of these topics, not enzymology and pharmacology. Even though CHE-2F8Y is listed as a Pre-requisite it can be alternatively taken at the same time as this module.
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS: SYNTHESIS AND PROPERTIES	CHE-3C11	20
This unit provides most of the core description of heterocyclic chemistry in the organic chemistry lecture programme in CHE, surveying the synthesis and reactivity of pi-deficient and pi- excessive heterocycles. This level-3 course also continues the discussion of organic synthesis, building on the introduction to carbon-carbon bond forming reactions, synthesis design and retrosynthetic planning presented in earlier years. The course includes an introduction to stereoselective synthesis and transition metal mediated bond-formation procedures - topics which can be taken on further in a level-4 option course.
PROTEIN ENGINEERING	CHE-3H84	10
This unit builds on CHE-3H81 Protein Structure and Chemistry, covering how protein structures can be altered by biological and chemical procedures, and the principles underlying the design of proteins for specific tasks. Examples of engineered proteins designed for particular industrial and medical uses are considered.
PROTEIN STRUCTURE AND CHEMISTRY	CHE-3H81	10
This module provides an introduction to the diversity of protein structure , their properties and to interactions between proteins and metal ions. Lectures cover protein structure, protein electrostatics, stability and folding, molecular modelling, the chemical principles of protein-metal interactions, spectroscopic techniques for studying protein metal centres and techniques used in protein structure determination. The module is taught in the first part of semester one.

Option A Study (70 credits)

Students will select 70 credits from the following modules:

Name	Code	Credits
CELL BIOLOGY AND MECHANISMS OF DISEASE	BIO-3C18	20
This module is concerned with the structure and function of cells and it has a strong emphasis on experimental methodologies used to study cell dynamics. Topics to be covered include: DNA cloning and gene expression, microscopy and image analysis, cell junctions and communication, mechanics of cell division, cell signalling in motility, cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix and tissue function, growth factors and proliferation and cell differentiation. The module also includes three demonstrations of current techniques used to study cells and review sessions where students have an opportunity to ask questions on aspects of cell biology.
CELLULAR SIGNALLING	BIO-3C03	20
The module deals with the mechanisms involved in signal recognition, transduction and response in animal cells. Topics include the molecular basis of receptor activation and the way in which this is interpreted either in changes in second messenger levels or in protein-protein interactions and ultimately in changes in protein kinase activities. The module then goes on to look at some of the effects on cell behaviour that result from signal input. (With the agreement of the module organiser, students who have taken BIO-2B01 but not BIO-2B06 may be allowed to take this module.)
COMMUNICATION AND TRANSPORT ACROSS BIOLOGICAL MEMBRANES	BIO-3C02	20
The module will explore the experimental and computer-based methods for studying the structure and function of membrane proteins. The principles explored will be illustrated with examples of topical interest. The module will also consider the biosynthesis of integral membrane proteins and the mechanisms by which proteins are targeted into, or across, biological membranes. The structure, specialisation and differentiation of biological membranes will also be explored.
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY	CHE-2C32	20
The central theme of the module is the chemistry of the p and d block elements: structure and bonding, coordination complexes and the organometallic chemistry of main group and transition metals. The module includes laboratory work. Students are required to have taken one of the laboratory module CHE-1C0Y, CHE-1E0Y or CHE-1H0Y as well as CHE-1C3Y before taking this module.
INORGANIC COMPOUNDS: STRUCTURE & FUNCTION	CHE-3C32	20
This module concentrates on two important themes in contemporary inorganic chemistry: transition metal clusters and homogeneous catalysis. The structure and bonding in these compounds will be discussed as well as applications in materials chemistry and synthesis. There will also be a series of workshops on the subjects presented.
LITERATURE-BASED PROJECT	CHE-3K0Y	20
A supervised literature-based project, available only to students for degree courses in Chemistry, and visitors to the School of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy.
MOLECULAR ENZYMOLOGY	BIO-3C01	20
The unit sets out to explain the molecular basis of the often complex catalytic mechanisms of enzymes in biological systems. Covered are the underlying principles of enzyme catalysis and techniques for the study of enzyme mechanism and structure. These provide a foundation for discussions of the mechanisms of specific enzyme families such as the aspartic proteinases (e.g. the HIV-1 proteinase), of enzymes involved in DNA replication and ATP synthesis. Many of the examples presented are of relevance in medicine. An extended practical based on the kinetics of a model enzyme, chymotrypsin, helps underpin concepts learnt in the unit.
ORGANIC MOLECULES: REACTIVITY & FUNCTION	CHE-3H13	10
The unit examines the role of the substituents on reactivity of aromatic compounds and its quantification using the Hammett equation. A consideration of organic radicals and organic photochemistry is followed by a discussion of the reactivity of pi electron rich molecules, exploring their reactivity to light and heat through consideration of current approaches such as Frontier Molecular Orbital theory. The use of these and other organic compounds in areas such as optical switches and photochromic devises as discussed.
RESEARCH PROJECT	CHE-3C0Y	30
A supervised research project available only to students registered for degree courses in Chemistry, and visitors to the School of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy.

Disclaimer

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules and regular (five-yearly) review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff or sabbatical leave. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform students.

Entry Requirements

A Level:: ABB including Chemistry and a second science
International Baccalaureate:: 32 points to include HL Chemistry at grade 5 and one other HL Science or Maths at grade 5
Scottish Highers:: AABBB including Higher Level Chemistry and a second science
Scottish Advanced Highers:: ABB including Advanced Higher Level Chemistry and a second science
Irish Leaving Certificate:: AABBBB including Chemistry and a second science at Higher Level
Access Course:: See below
HND:: Please contact institution for further information
European Baccalaureate:: Overall 75% to include Chemistry and a second science

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

IELTS: 6. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

We ask all our applicants to have A2-level Chemistry and A2 in a second science subject from Physics, Mathematics and Biology, or equivalent.

Applicants with Access or BTEC qualifications who receive an offer will also be asked to complete a chemistry test at the University in Summer 2013. Information concerning the content of the chemistry test will be made available to such applicants.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.

Applicants with Access or BTEC qualifications who receive an offer will also be asked to complete a chemistry test at the University in Summer 2013. Information concerning the content of the chemistry test will be made available to such applicants.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have GCSE Mathematics and GCSE English Language at Grade C or above.

Fees and Funding

Undergraduate University Fees

We are committed to ensuring that Tuition Fees do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. Full time UK/EU students starting an undergraduate degree course in 2013 will be charged a tuition fee of £9,000. The level of fee may be subject to yearly increases. Full time International students starting an undergraduate degree course in 2013 will be charged a tuition fee of £14,400. The level of fee may be subject to yearly increases.

Scholarships and Bursaries

Home/EU - The University of East Anglia offers a range of Bursaries and Scholarships. To check if you are eligible please visit http://www.uea.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/finance/university-financial-support

International Students - The University offers around £1 million of Scholarships each year to support International students in their studies. Scholarships are normally awarded to students on the basis of academic merit and are usually for the duration of the period of study. Our University international pages gives you more details about preparation for studying with us, including Fees and Funding http://www.uea.ac.uk/international

How to Apply

Applications need to be made via the Universities Colleges and Admissions Services (UCAS), using the UCAS Apply option.

UCAS Apply is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time Undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. It is made up of different sections that you need to complete. Your application does not have to be completed all at once. The system allows you to leave a section partially completed so you can return to it later and add to or edit any information you have entered. Once your application is complete, it must be sent to UCAS so that they can process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.

The UCAS code name and number for the University of East Anglia is EANGL E14.

Further Information

If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances with the Admissions Office prior to applying please do contact us:

Undergraduate Admissions Office

Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk

request a copy of our latest prospectus and subject brochures
get access to exclusive information personalised to your interests
keep up to date with news and events at UEA.

International candidates are also actively encouraged to access the University's International webpages.