Medicinal Chemistry

Overview

While the programme is customisable, there is an emphasis on the medicinal aspects of chemistry, such as organic synthesis, drug delivery, and protein structure and function. The  MSc in Medicinal Chemistry at Aarhus University is challenging, yet highly rewarding for those students interested in how chemistry e.g. can be a tool for biological research.

Learn From Leaders In The Field

Course content is heavily influenced by the latest research conducted at Aarhus University, as all lecturers are also active researchers. Students are expected to take part in fundamental research projects with the department’s research groups, and there may also be opportunities to work with private companies or public institutions during their studies. Students will be able to specialize within one of the areas of medicinal chemistry in which Aarhus University is particularly strong: organic synthesis, analysis of new bioactive compounds, structure and activity of membrane-bound proteins, microscopic structure of bones and other bioinorganic materials, modelling of proteins and their interaction with pharmaceuticals, and drug delivery and chemical biology. Students in the programme have access to high-quality laboratory equipment and tools that allow them to engage in hands-on learning at the cutting edge of science.

Student life

The Department of Chemistry has an active student environment, with both academic and social activities arranged by our student organisations. During your time as a master’s student you will work closely with team members in one of the research groups, as well as participating in the academic and social events of the group.

Careers

There are more chemistry openings in Denmark than there are domestic graduates to fill them, making unemployment very low for graduates in Medicinal Chemistry. Medicinal Chemistry graduates have moved into R&D and consultancy jobs in both public and private sectors, and several graduates are currently working in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. As a graduate of the programme you will be well placed to work with pharmaceutical companies such as Novo Nordisk, Novozymes, LeoPharma, and Lundbeck. Your strong chemistry background will also give you a point of entry into careers with companies in other sectors, such as DuPont, Chr. Hansen, and Eurofins.