Advanced Molecular Synthesis MRes

Program Overview

The Advanced Molecular Synthesis MRes program at Imperial College London delves into the advancements in molecular synthesis, focusing on the rational design and efficient synthesis of compounds. Students engage in modern approaches to automate, analyze, and understand synthetic processes, developing expertise in a specialized area through a research project. The program prepares individuals for further research or careers in fields ranging from healthcare to energy.

Program Outline

Advanced Molecular Synthesis MRes Program Details:

Degree Overview:

This MRes program focuses on advancements in molecular synthesis, exploring how these advancements can unlock new opportunities and address societal challenges in various fields, including healthcare and smart materials. The program aims to equip students with a deep understanding of the rational design and efficient synthesis of organic and inorganic compounds. It also provides training in modern approaches designed to automate, analyze, and understand synthetic processes.

Objectives:

• Deepen understanding of the rational design and efficient synthesis of organic and inorganic compounds.
• Receive training in modern approaches designed to automate, analyze, and understand synthetic processes.
• Develop expertise in a specialized area of molecular synthesis through a research project.
• Critically analyze molecular synthesis research and assess how existing approaches can be made more efficient and sustainable.
• Prepare students for further research or careers in commercial laboratories in fields ranging from healthcare to energy.

Outline:

Core Modules:

• Fundamental Reactive Intermediates: This module explores fundamental and recent advances in the use of reactive intermediates in synthesis.
• AMS Journal Clubs: Students engage in collaborative discussions of current research and present on chosen topics.
• Research Proposal: This module assesses students' ability to critically analyze published scientific literature and helps them plan their research project.
• Programming in Python: Students become familiar with Python as a general-purpose programming language, including specific data processing features and libraries.

Optional Modules:

• Data Analytics in Chemistry: Students gain a grounding in data science and machine learning approaches and learn to apply them to large data sets.
• Advanced Stereochemistry, Synthesis and Biosynthesis: Students develop a high-level understanding of tactics and strategies deployed in complex molecule and natural products synthesis and biosynthesis.
• Automation in Chemistry, Drug Discovery and Materials: Students review state-of-the-art "enabling technologies" and explore low-cost open-source automated systems.

Research Project in Advanced Molecular Synthesis:

Students undertake a nine-month research project, culminating in a dissertation, presentation, and oral examination. The dissertation describes the context and background of the research and critically analyzes results and data. The presentation involves presenting the research and answering questions related to the project. The oral examination probes the student's overall knowledge of the project and the research techniques used.

Assessment:

• Group work and projects: 22%
• Research proposal: 11%
• Research project: 67%

Assessment methods include:

• Group presentations
• Group projects
• Individual analysis exercise
• Project proposal
• Manuscript
• Individual presentation
• Oral exams

Teaching:

• Teaching and learning methods: Lectures, workshops, seminars, practical work, virtual learning environment.
• Balance of teaching and learning: 11% research project planning, 22% taught modules and journal clubs, 67% individual research.

Careers:

• Potential career paths:
• Commercial laboratories in fields such as healthcare and energy
• Opportunities: The Department of Chemistry has strong sponsorship links for those looking to continue their education.

Other:

• The program is delivered by the Department of Chemistry at Imperial College London.
• The minimum entry requirement is a First class Honours in chemistry or chemical engineering.
• The program is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum.
• It may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts.

Home fee: £14,650 Overseas fee: £40,500