Analytical Skills in Pharmacology - 0990067

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Module will run

Occurrence	Teaching period
A	Spring Term 2024-25

Module aims

To provide an opportunity to apply and consolidate theoretical and conceptual knowledge.

To gain a solid understanding of the theory and practical application of key analytical techniques used within pharmaceutical industry for drug analysis and production.

To derive an understanding of scientific principles by collecting, analysing, interpreting and presenting quantitative data obtained in the laboratory.

To develop analytical skills based on reflection and by engaging in discussions with fellow students and tutors.

Module learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module participants will be able to:

1. Exhibit and demonstrate extended knowledge of the fundamental principles of key analytical laboratory techniques commonly employed in drug development and production;

1. Critically evaluate and analyse the purpose of different laboratory techniques to the development of drugs

1. Undertake experimental design, data handling and interpretation and presentation of results, including critical appreciation of the limitations of experimental and analytical results gained a working understanding of quality assurance procedures and nomenclature as applied in pharmacology;

Module content

This module will provide experience in a number of laboratory analytical techniques as a means to illustrate fundamental principles around drug development.

The module comprises 8 seminars or practical sessions. Teaching will be spread across Trimester 2.

Topic 1: Governance and ethics

Topic 2: Chromatography (HPLC & GC).

Topic 3: Fluorescence analysis techniques (Spectroscopy & Microscopy)

Topic 4: Phage display and library techniques

Topic 5: Electrophoretic methods

Topic 6: Proteomics and mass spectroscopy

Topic 7: NMR

Topic 8: Bioinformatics and genomics

Each practical will be either an online or laboratory-based session during which students will work in pairs to carry out an experiment to illustrate a particular analytical technique.

Indicative assessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	60
Essay/coursework	40

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	60
Essay/coursework	40

Module feedback

Students will receive formative verbal feedback during the first practical and during the tutorials.

Students will receive written feedback on their summative practical report assessment.

Indicative reading

N/A