Drug Discovery Sciences: Design and Synthesis in Drug Discovery Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Overview

Making biologically active molecules come to lifeThe Design and Synthesis in Drug Discovery (DSDD) specialisation within the Drug Discovery Sciences Master’s programme focuses on the design and synthesis of biologically active molecules.

This specialisation offers two complementary exciting chemistry-based paths:

• Synthetic Medicinal Chemistry: this path focuses on the use of organic chemistry in a broader interdisciplinary drug and chemical biology setting. Students gain expertise in the organic chemistry of drug-like compounds, biocatalysis, radiolabelled molecules, and advanced synthetic methodologies. Students also receive extensive hands-on training with cutting-edge technologies for synthesis planning, compound synthesis, purification, and structural characterisation, preparing them for roles in chemical research in academic, company or institute settings alike. This path in the DSDD specialisation is ideal for students passionate about organic chemistry and its critical role in drug discovery, diagnostics, and life sciences.
• Computer-Aided Drug Design: this path focuses on leveraging molecular modelling and computational (bio)chemistry techniques to understand the biomolecular basis of drug action. Students will explore state-of-the-art methodologies, such as pharmacophore modelling, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations, to rationally design next-generation drug compounds and predict their interactions. This path in the DSDD specialisation is ideal for students eager to apply cutting-edge computational techniques to improve drug discovery, enhance drug efficacy, and prevent unwanted side effects, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration in drug design and development.