About Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, BSc - at University of Nottingham
B Sc Degree in Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry (C720)First YearIn the first year there are three five-credit modules of chemistry theory, one five-credit module of practical chemistry and one ten-credit module each of biochemistry theory and practical per semester. This allows students to attend modules totalling twenty credits in each semester chosen from options in life sciences, physics and mathematics.
The chemistry modules present a balanced introduction to fundamental theory and experiments in organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, while the biochemistry modules introduce students to theoretical and practical aspects of cell structure and metabolism, genes and cellular control mechanisms.
Second YearIn chemistry, modules cover topics such as synthesis of organic molecules, chemistry of amino acids and carbohydrates, properties of transition metals and spectroscopy. Practical modules consist of laboratory experiments weighted towards biological chemistry.
In biochemistry, students explore protein and gene function, regulation of metabolism and extracellular signals. The laboratory work includes analysis of proteins and enzymes and molecular biology, including gene cloning.
Third YearThe third year provides an advanced course in the theory and practice of biochemistry and biological chemistry. Lecture modules describe a range of topics which reflect the forefront of knowledge in the two areas. Laboratory work introduces students to advanced experimental techniques. A literature project or short research project allows students to investigate the latest developments at the interface of biochemistry and biological chemistry.
M Sci Degree in Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry (C721)First YearIn the first year there are three five-credit modules of chemistry theory, one five-credit module of practical chemistry and one ten-credit module each of biochemistry theory and practical per semester. This allows students to attend modules totalling twenty credits chosen from options in life sciences, physics and mathematics in each semester.
The chemistry modules present a balanced introduction to fundamental theory and experiments in organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, while the biochemistry modules introduce students to theoretical and practical aspects of cell structure and metabolism, genes and cellular control mechanisms.
Second YearIn chemistry, modules cover topics such as synthesis of organic molecules, chemistry of amino acids and carbohydrates, properties of transition metals and spectroscopy. Practical modules consist of laboratory experiments weighted towards biological chemistry.
In biochemistry, students explore protein and gene function, regulation of metabolism and extracellular signals. The laboratory work includes analysis of proteins and enzymes and molecular biology, including gene cloning.
Third YearThe third and fourth years provide an advanced course in theory and practice of Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry.
In the third year, biochemistry lecture modules cover mechanisms and control of gene expression, advanced recombinant DNA technology, responses to stress and immunology. Chemistry lecture modules describe the chemistry of nucleic acids, including the mode of action of anti-tumour drugs, the reactions of vitamins, biosynthesis, advanced spectroscopy and strategy in organic synthesis.
Practical work in chemistry and biochemistry includes an introduction to advanced laboratory procedures and the use of computers in bioinformatics. A literature project allows students to investigate the latest developments in forefront topics at the interface of Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry.
Fourth YearIn the fourth year students will undertake a prolonged research project in either biochemistry or chemistry. They will be able to choose from a wide variety of topics which reflect the research interests of the staff members in both subjects. Where possible the projects will be strengthened by the natural overlap between chemistry and biochemistry. These projects introduce the students to the excitement of discovery and invention.
During the fourth year the theory modules cover more advanced topics in both subjects. In biochemistry, advanced courses are presented in the areas of cancer, development, general causes of human diseases, apoptosis, clinical biochemistry and signal transduction. In chemistry, case studies in medicinal chemistry, bioorganic mechanisms, pathways of primary metabolism and the chemistry of enzymes are among the topics to be covered.
