Sustainable Chemistry MSc

UCL (University College London)

Taught at UCL East, this programme combines multidisciplinary teaching with sustainable and green chemistry research, preparing students for a range of careers within industry, the public sector, and academia. The programme is part of UCL East’s Manufacturing Futures Lab (MFL), an innovative facility and multidisciplinary research hub to underpin the end-to-end production of new products, such as fine chemicals, active pharmaceutical ingredients, and new materials, in ways that are smarter, faster, environmentally friendly and, overall, more sustainable. This degree involves a cutting-edge research project under the supervision of a member of staff at UCL East. Students will initially learn about different aspects of chemical sustainability via a number of taught and practical modules. They will then progress to the laboratory where they will work on an independent research project putting into practice the core experimental skills and foundational knowledge taught in Terms 1 and 2. The programme provides an outstanding multidisciplinary training in chemical and biological molecular assembly using methods that have low-environmental impact, use innovative sustainable resources and are energy efficient. One of the main features of the Sustainable Chemistry MSc is the substantial research project focusing on sustainable/green chemistry or chemical biotechnology, which will cover a six-month period after completing a literature review and plan on the proposed project. This is a major component of the programme and it will involve an intensive research project providing 'hands-on' extended training in methods and techniques and the development of new concepts at the forefront of scientific research. A unique feature of the project will be its interdisciplinary approach, for example embracing not just chemistry but identifying green synthetic methods via interdisciplinary research approaches. This programme is suitable for graduates from various chemical disciplines (chemistry, biochemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry, synthetic biology) with an interest in sustainability and wishing to enhance their research and practical skills and aiming for a research degree and/or academic career. This programme is also suitable for those working in industry wishing to expand their research experience as well as those in employment seeking continuing professional development.