University of Leeds

Drug Discovery and Development MSc

The Drug Discovery and Development MSc at the University of Leeds is designed for those eager to make a positive impact on society through the discovery of new medicines. This course offers a multidisciplinary approach, covering essential fields such as pharmacology, biochemistry, chemistry, clinical research, and pharmaceutical commercialisation. Students will benefit from the expertise of faculty members from various schools, including the School of Biomedical Sciences and the School of Chemistry, as well as industry professionals. The programme allows for specialisation, enabling students to focus on areas like medicinal chemistry, molecular pharmacology, and drug development processes. A key feature of the course is the substantive research-based project, which equips students with practical skills and prepares them for professional lab environments. The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of the drug discovery and development pipeline, ensuring students are well-prepared for their future careers.Students will engage in a blended learning approach, combining face-to-face tutorials and seminars with pre-recorded lectures for flexible study. Assessment methods vary by module and include essays, presentations, and a major research project dissertation. Graduates will emerge with the skills necessary to work in various sectors, including large pharmaceutical companies and government regulatory bodies, and will be well-positioned for further research opportunities. The course also emphasises employability, providing access to career development programmes and networking opportunities with industry professionals. With close links to the pharmaceutical industry, students gain valuable insights into real-world drug discovery and clinical development processes.