MSc Medicinal and Biological Chemistry 2020 My Course Choice Having completed a BSc Chemistry degree I wanted to continue my academic studies in a more specialised area where I could deepen my knowledge in medicinal chemistry and explore its links with the biological sciences. Thus, pursuing the MSc Medicinal & Biological Chemistry degree was an excellent match between my aspirations and what the School of Chemistry in Edinburgh had to offer. From the excellent teaching standards to high quality research facilities and inspiring academic staff – all of it made my choice to study in Edinburgh easy enough and I couldn’t be happier about making this decision. My Time at the University of Edinburgh I think the contents and the structure of the courses within the MSc Medicinal and Biological Chemistry degree really showcase the current scientific advancements in research. Since the School of Chemistry at the University of Edinburgh is one of the leading entities in chemical research around the world, it has been truly inspiring to be able to directly learn from the experts in this field. As a new postgraduate student here, I definitely felt welcome and supported by the academic staff. The MSc cohort is always very international, so I got to meet and study alongside people from all over the world – from Lithuania to China and Fiji, and the list goes on! In fact, it is very rewarding because it not only allows one to learn about the different cultures per se, but it also encourages the exchange of ideas and ways of thinking. I think collaboration and team work is at the heart of any scientific progress, and this MSc particularly emphasises it through a variety of group work assignments and projects. I should also add that Edinburgh is a wonderful city and being able to live and study in such a historically rich environment has been a memorable experience. It is definitely a unique place to be. After Graduation To me this programme has been a great stimulus to seek for my own research interests. As a consequence, I recognised the benefits of pursuing an interdisciplinary research work with a goal of making the available organic synthesis toolbox more sustainable. Hence, while still in the midst of the MSc I’ve realised my interest in enzymes and I’m currently continuing my academic journey here in Edinburgh as a PhD student in Dr Amanda Jarvis group where I’m working on the design of artificial metalloenzymes. This article was published on 2023-10-16
