In this module students will study many of the chemical analysis techniques used in the characterisation and quantification of pharmaceuticals. Topics covered will include the use of chromatographic and spectroscopic methods of chemical analysis amongst others. This will include the theory and application of GC, HPLC and other chromatographic techniques with a range of detection methods, and the role of both molecular and atomic spectroscopic techniques.

This module will place both qualitative and quantitative analysis in a pharmaceutical context. As such it will address the ability to elucidate structural information from the analysis of pharmaceutical compounds, and quantitative analysis in relation to pharmaceutical manufacturing and formulation.

A GROUP PORTFOLIO weighted at 50%, Examination 50% (60 minute)

50% Assessment via examination (1 hour) will utilise a combination of short and longer answer questions (learning outcome 1). FINAL

50% Group (3-4 students) laboratory Portfolio (learning outcomes 1-4). This will also include a reflective summary produced by each student summarising all of the laboratory sessions undertaken. Results for individuals will be adjusted through peer assessment of individual's contribution to practical sessions and in the production of the group portfolio.

Formative Assessment:

Directed discussion within blackboard and discussions in the practical sessions will be utilised to provide formative feedback. Students will also be able to submit laboratory report(s) for formative feedback for the report writing.

You will be taught by a series of lecture sessions (12 x 2h) delivering the core material. The theory underpinning these techniques is introduced via lectures, and will be supported by blackboard which will also utilises a mixture of formative activities, with the aim of directing further study.

Practical sessions (4 X 3h) will be run in small groups. These practical sessions provide the students with “hands on” experience, to support the theoretical principles of the techniques. The production of a portfolio of laboratory reports allows the students the opportunity to interpret and process data derived from chemical analysis. Group work during practical sessions and the production of the laboratory portfolio aim to develop interpersonal skills.

The remaining hours will involve directed reading, accessing and studying information provided through Blackboard, preparation for the summative test and production of laboratory reports

Ermer, J. and Nethercote, P.(2014) Method Validation in Pharmaceutical Analysis: A Guide to Best Practice

Moffat, A. et al (2011) Clarkes analysis of drugs and poisons 4th edition. Pharmaceutical press.

Rouessac, F. and Rouessac, A. (2007) Chemical Analysis: Modern Instrumentation Methods and Techniques. Wiley.

Rowe, P (2015) Essential Statistics for the Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2nd edition. Wiley-Blackwell.

Appropriately equipped laboratories.

1. Demonstrate critical knowledge and critical understanding of a range of current analytical techniques, equipment, their application and limitations.
(KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING, APPLICATION, LEARNING)

2. Operate a range of modern analytical equipment and interpret, critically evaluate and report experimental results.
(ENQUIRY, PROBLEM SOLVING)

3. Work effectively as part of a team, making contributions to group work, and production of a group portfolio.
(COMMUNICATION, LEARNING, TEAMWORK)

4. Communicate knowledge in the form of written reports; appropriately interpret analysis results, showing understanding of their significance and the underpinning theory.
(APPLICATION, PROBLEM SOLVING, COMMUNICATION)