Program Overview

Overview of the Master's Program in Drug Discovery Sciences

The Master's program in Drug Discovery Sciences at VU Amsterdam is a two-year, full-time program that focuses on the chemistry aspects of early drug discovery. The program offers four specializations: Design and Synthesis in Drug Discovery, Pharmacology and Toxicology in Drug Discovery, Bioanalytics in Drug Discovery, and Education in Drug Discovery.

Program Description

The program approaches drug research and development from a multidisciplinary perspective, providing students with insight into the molecular causes of disease, therapeutic strategies, and the design and synthesis of drug molecules. Students will work across the spectrum of pharmaceutical sciences, from small molecules to complex biological systems.

Specializations

• Design and Synthesis in Drug Discovery: This specialization focuses on the design and synthesis of biologically active molecules using modern synthetic methods and characterization techniques. Students will also apply molecular modeling, AI, and simulations to study and optimize drug-target interactions.
• Pharmacology and Toxicology in Drug Discovery: This specialization studies how drugs act on molecular targets and how chemicals can cause cellular stress or damage. Students will gain hands-on experience with techniques such as cell culture, imaging, and PCR to investigate drug action, safety, and toxicity.
• Bioanalytics in Drug Discovery: This specialization analyzes drug candidates and biological systems with advanced techniques, including chromatography, mass spectrometry, and NMR. Students will focus on biomarkers, drug metabolism, and therapeutic monitoring.
• Education in Drug Discovery: This specialization is a teacher training program leading to a secondary education teaching certificate.

Program Structure

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of drug discovery sciences, with a focus on the chemistry aspects of early drug discovery. Students will choose an in-depth specialization that suits their interests, while gaining knowledge in all drug discovery disciplines.

Career Opportunities

The program prepares students for careers in the pharmaceutical industry, academia, and government agencies, with a focus on the development of new therapies and medicines. Around sixty percent of all diseases lack a cure, making drug discovery one of the greatest challenges in modern medicine. Graduates of the program will have the knowledge and skills to shape future therapies and contribute to the development of new treatments for diseases.