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 that are 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 within 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 continue to 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 MChem honours degree in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry could be exactly what you’re looking for. This four 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 the final, ‘Masters’-level year, students have the opportunity to study advanced areas of biological and medicinal chemistry and to gain significant experience of a research environment through a year-long research project undertaken in one of the School’s research laboratories.
Our unique programme, although based in the School of Chemistry, is taught jointly with 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 four-year Masters level qualification, please be reassured that the School of Chemistry also offers a three year BSc 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. Progression on the MChem programme is based on academic merit. The School also offers variants of the MChem that involve spending a year (year 3 of 4) at a University in North America, or in industry.
At the end of four years, our MChem 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.
Fraser Macmillan
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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 (120 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 120 credits:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
Compulsory Study (120 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 120 credits:
This module provides a bridge between undergraduate laboratory modules and postgraduate research, and gives training in specific study-skills related to research. A small number of advanced experiments will be undertaken, each involving standard procedures followed by open-ended investigation. Each of the practical components will be followed by a short viva. It is only available to MChem students.
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.
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This module aims to develop the skills required of professional scientists. These skills are highly valued by the Royal Society of Chemistry and employers. Skills developed will include oral and written communication, team working and problem-solving. Exercises will be based in a chemical science context and will include aspects of sustainability, ethics and environmental impact. This module is only available for MChem and MNatsci students.
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.
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.
Compulsory Study (100 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 100 credits:
Before taking this module, CHE-3C11 must have been taken, as well as ONE of CHE-2F7Y, CHE-2F4Y or CHE-2C2Y. Equivalent learning outcomes while in industrial placements or abroad are also acceptable. This module provides advanced level coverage of organic chemistry, with emphasis on spectroscopic methods for structure determination and synthesis of natural products, and biological chemistry, with emphasis on the use of x-ray, spectroscopic and theoretical methods as research tools.
This module is compulsory for all final year M-level students. It provides M-level coverage in selected topics of biological chemistry, bioanalytical chemistry and nanoscale chemistry. In addition this module contains an element of revision of material taught in years 1-3. Students are required to have taken CHE-3C11, CHE-3C21 and CHE-3C32, or CHE-3ICY or CHE-3A0Y.
This unit provides a detailed account of more advanced and specialised methods of vibrational spectroscopy. It introduces the theory and practice of using chemometric approaches to make sense of large and complex analytical data sets, with reference to problems in food science and food analysis. It concludes with a section on the design, operation and use of chemical sensors and biosensors.
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This module aims to develop the skills required of professional scientists. These skills are highly valued by the Royal Society of Chemistry and employers. Skills developed will include oral and written communication, team working and problem-solving. Exercises will be based in a chemical science context and will include aspects of sustainability, ethics and environmental impact. This module is only available for MChem and MNatsci students.
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:
AAB including Chemistry and a second science
International Baccalaureate:
33 points to include HL Chemistry at grade 6 and one other HL Science or Maths at grade 6
Scottish Highers:
AAAAB including Higher Level Chemistry and a sceond science
Scottish Advanced Highers:
AAB including Advanced Higher Level Chemistry and a second science
Irish Leaving Certificate:
AAAABB inc Chemistry and a second science at Higher Level
Access Course:
See below
HND:
Please contact institution for further information
European Baccalaureate:
Overall 80% to include Chemistry
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 or equivalent 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.
General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.
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.
Offers made to applicants with Access or BTEC qualifications will also include the requirement to pass 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.
International Students - The School of Chemistry has 3 £1,000 year one scholarships available for 2013 entry. The Scholarship deadline is 15th March 2013. Please contact the Admissions office at che.ug.admiss@uea.ac.uk for more information.
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:
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 that are 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 within cells, and in the design and synthesis of new drug molecules that can affect the properties and behaviour of cells, to name a few.