Biochemistry

This course deepens knowledge of organic chemistry and organic synthesis in relation to drug molecules. Medicinal chemistry deals with the discovery, design, identification, and synthesis of drug molecules, and with the study of the relationships between the structure of a drug molecule and its behavior in the body. By looking at five major diseases, the organic synthesis and pharmacology of several drug molecules for treating these diseases are explored. A full year of Organic Chemistry is required for admission.

This is a largely practical course, which develops experimental skills. A selection of practicals and follow-up sessions designed for students taking Pharmacology PHAR0004 provide reinforcement of the material in that course. Students learn to conduct simple experiments on in vitro preparations and present their findings in a written account, use animals in medical research from the standpoint of animal welfare and ethics; set-up tissue preparations and use transducers and computers to measure tension or length changes in smooth muscle preparations; understand the experimental conditions required to maintain tissues in vitro and of the requirements to achieve stimulation of nerves using pulse generators; perform dilutions of stock drug solutions and calculate appropriate volumes to add to organ baths to achieve the desired final concentrations; follow experimental protocols accurately to generate reproducible results; and quantify results and present them clearly in graphical form.

This course introduces biodiversity of life on earth, and key principles of ecology and conservation. The emphasis is on learning through field classes which will take place in the South Downs National Park. The University is in the heart of the South Downs National Park so students have the opportunity for experiential learning on the key themes: biodiversity, ecology and conservation. Students also learn survey and identification skills through these field trips. The course develops an understanding of conservation and applied ecology in relation to real-world problems, through topics including biodiversity, community ecology, and practical land management for conservation. An example of this is the mowing of grasslands to help maintain grass cover, encourage re-growth, and productivity.