6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Chief examiner(s)
Coordinator(s)
Unit guides
Prerequisites
PSC2021 Structural Organic Chemistry
PSC2122 Synthetic Organic Chemistry
Notes
Previous title Synthetic Medicinal Chemistry
Synopsis
The principle aim of this subject is to provide students with a detailed knowledge of numerous aspects of synthetic organic chemistry, as it applies to modern medicinal chemistry.
The subject follows from PSC2021 and PSC2122, covering advanced organic synthesis and methodology. Topics include catalysis in synthesis, radical chemistry, organometallic chemistry, heterocyclic chemistry, reactive intermediates and stereochemistry, as well as retrosynthetic analysis. An understanding of reaction mechanisms will be emphasized throughout. The laboratory component reinforces aspects of the lecture course with laboratory experience.
This will involve:
- catalysis and biocatalysis
- organometallic reactions
- radical reactions
- heterocyclic chemistry
- asymmetric synthesis
- reactive Intermediates
Outcomes
At the end of this unit students will be able to demonstrate:
- A wider knowledge of synthetic methodology;
- A knowledge of the use of catalysis in synthetic chemistry;
- An understanding of radical reactions and their role in synthesis;
- A broader knowledge of organometallic and heterocyclic chemistry;
- The ability to undertake a retrosynthetic analysis and to design a synthesis of a target molecule;
- The ability to read and understand the synthetic organic chemistry literature;
- The practical ability to perform a routine synthesis in the laboratory and experience of most common operations in a synthetic chemistry laboratory.
Assessment
Final exam (2 hour): 60%; mid-semester exam: 10%; practical assessments: 20%; practical exam: 10%.
Workload requirements
Contact hours for on-campus students:
- Twenty 1-hour lectures
- Nine 4-hour laboratory exercises, including laboratory exam
Additional requirements:
- Twelve hours laboratory report preparation
See also Unit timetable information