Module Catalogue

NES8808 : Synthetic Methodology for Drugs

  • Offered for Year: 2024/25
  • Available for Study Abroad and Exchange students, subject to proof of pre-requisite knowledge.
  • Module Leader(s): Dr Michael Carroll
  • Lecturer: Dr Cristina Navarro Reguero, Dr Julian Knight
  • Owning School: Natural and Environmental Sciences
  • Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters

Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.

Semester 1 Credit Value: 20
ECTS Credits: 10.0
European Credit Transfer System

Aims

To familiarise students with the key synthetic methods used to prepare critical functionality in drug molecules.

Outline Of Syllabus

Chemical structure of organic compounds and the resulting physical properties
The synthesis and reactivity of diverse carbonyl group functionality
Aliphatic nucleophilic substitution reactions e.g. SN1 and SN2
Elimination reactions e.g. E1 and E2
Structure and reactivity (e.g. SEAr, SNAr) of aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds
Redox chemistry of selected functionality
Explanation of selectivity and reactivity based on mechanistic rationale

Teaching Methods

Teaching Activities
Category Activity Number Length Student Hours Comment
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion210:0020:002 x interim assessed exercises - Canvas MCQ
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesLecture401:0040:004 Lectures per week (10 weeks) PiP.
Structured Guided LearningAcademic skills activities151:0015:00Workshops and revision sessions
Guided Independent StudyIndependent study1125:00125:00Revision for end of module assessments
Total200:00
Teaching Rationale And Relationship

In lectures students learn concepts essential for the preparation of drug molecules, encompassing both synthetic and mechanistic principles. The online workshops allow practice of these methods.

Assessment Methods

The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners

Exams
Description Length Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Digital Examination1201A50N/A
Other Assessment
Description Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Prob solv exercises1M502 x Interim assessed exercises
Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The assessment at the end of Semester 1 will test the students’ knowledge and understanding of the content of this module in the context of both synthetic and mechanistic chemistry. Two Interim Assessments will be set during Semester 1 to determine progress during the Module. Due to the diverse background of the students and that the material is taught as two blocks.

Reading Lists

Timetable