Overview
Unravelling the molecular mechanisms behind drug action and their harmful side effectsThe Pharmacology and Toxicology in Drug Discovery (PTDD) specialisation within the Drug Discovery Sciences Master’s programme focuses on the beneficial and adverse effects of drugs on biological systems at the molecular and cellular levels.
This specialisation offers two complementary paths:
- Molecular Pharmacology: this path focuses on the intricate mechanisms by which drugs interact with biological systems at the molecular and cellular levels. This track equips students with a profound understanding of receptor pharmacology, signal transduction pathways, and the molecular basis of drug efficacy. Emphasising both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, the programme prepares graduates to contribute to the development of novel therapeutics and the optimization of existing drug therapies.
- Molecular Toxicology: this path focuses on the in-depth exploration of the cellular stress responses and the molecular mechanisms underlying the toxic effects of pharmaceuticals, as well as food additives, contaminants, environmental pollutants, and industrial chemicals. This track equips students with the knowledge and skills to assess and predict toxicological outcomes, contributing to the development of safer therapeutic agents and protection of public health. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience, the programme prepares graduates to address complex challenges in toxicology and health sciences.
Programme Structure
The study programme of this specialisation consists of compulsory courses (12 ECTS), constrained elective courses (at least 12 ECTS), additional elective modules, and a major research project (48 ECTS), conducted in an academic, company or institute setting.
In addition to the compulsory courses and constrained electives, students may choose from further electives, such as additional advanced or broadening courses, a course on didactics of science supervision, a literature thesis, or a minor research project, enabling them to broaden their profile and strengthen their interdisciplinary training.
The compulsory courses within the PTDD specialisation cover:
- ADME: understanding how absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion influence drug efficacy and safety.
- Advanced pharmacology: focusing on the molecular basis and quantification of drug-target interaction and modulation of cellular responses.
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 24 months
Start dates & application deadlines
Language
Credits
Delivered
Campus Location
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
Disciplines
Chemistry Pharmacology View 5 other Masters in Pharmacology in NetherlandsWhat students do after studying
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.
Other requirements
General requirements
All applicants must:
- have completed a Bachelor’s programme that provides the required knowledge base (see admission matrix below for more information).
- have practical laboratory experience relevant for your chosen specialisation.
- have research experience relevant for your chosen specialisation.
Tuition Fees
-
International Applies to you
Applies to youNon-residents24970 EUR / year≈ 24970 EUR / year -
EU/EEA Applies to you
Applies to youEU/EEA Nationals2771 EUR / year≈ 2771 EUR / year
Living costs
Amsterdam
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
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Scholarships Information
Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Drug Discovery Sciences: Pharmacology and Toxicology in Drug Discovery.
Available Scholarships
You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.
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