GY318 DENOMINATED DEGREE PROGRAMME IN BIOPHARMACEUTICAL CHEMISTRY

Biopharmaceutical Chemistry is the study of biomolecules (such as DNA, proteins and carbohydrates) and their applications as therapeutics. Numerous diseases and medical conditions are caused by the improper function or the absence of a particular biomolecule. For example, some forms of Diabetes result from a lack of Insulin. The role of the Biopharmaceutical Chemist is to design and synthesize molecules that can substitute for the missing protein. The replacement molecule is often a modified protein, prepared using chemical and biotechnological methods. As such, Biopharmaceutical Chemistry is a multidisciplinary subject combining specific areas of Chemistry and Biology.

The Biopharmaceutical Chemistry course involves lectures, tutorials and laboratory practical classes, and has a limited intake of students.

Course Outline:

Year 1 provides a broad education in general sciences – Chemistry, Physics, Biology and Mathematics.

Year 2 students take core modules in Chemistry and Biochemistry as well as two additional modules, Computers in Chemistry and Pharmacology Fundamentals.

Year 3 specializes in the study of Organic, Inorganic and Physical Chemistry. Students also take a Pharmacology module, Principles of Toxicology.

The Professional Experience Programme is an important aspect of Year 3. This involves a 5 month placement in an Industrial or Academic laboratory, with the option to study abroad.

Year 4 involves further specialization in Chemistry with selected topics in Biopharmaceutical Chemistry:

Protein engineering / Protein-based therapeutics / Drug development and delivery / Glycosciences (the chemistry and biology of carbohydrates) / Biotechnology / Mammalian cell growth and Bioprocess Monitoring. Students will also complete a research project in one of these areas.

Career Opportunities:

The Biopharmaceutical Industry is an increasingly-important player in the Irish economy. Biopharmaceutical companies located in Ireland include Abbott, Amgen, Centocor, Elan, Eli Lilly, Genemedix, Genzyme, Merck and Wyeth. These companies need graduates who are trained in chemistry and aspects of biotechnology. The Biopharmaceutical Chemistry degree is tailored to meet the needs of this industry.

In addition to careers in industry, honours graduates will be qualified to pursue higher degrees (e.g. Ph.D. research) in a wide range of related disciplines.

To find out more contact:

Dr. Peter Crowley
School of Chemistry
Tel: + 353 91 492480
Web address: www.nuigalway.ie/chemistry/
Dr. Peter Crowley  email

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