BSc Chemistry with Cosmetic Science

Title:

Building Blocks of Life

Code:

BI1BEC1

Convenor:

PROF Phillip Dash

Summary:

Genes and cells are the fundamental building blocks of all life. All life is made up of cells and their function is controlled by genes. In this module we will introduce students to the dynamic nature of the cell and major concepts in cell biology and genetics. Microbial, animal and plant cell structures are examined and compared during a tour of the structure and function of the major organelles. The module also provides an overview of major cellular processes including energy production, cell death, cell communication, photosynthesis, stem cells, organization of cells into tissues and how cells survive extreme environments. Alongside this understanding of cells we will also examine genetics and genetic tools to understand transcription and translation, inheritance and evolution, gene regulation and key experimental techniques such as genetic engineering.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Fundamentals of Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table

Code:

CH1IN1

Convenor:

DR Michael Piperakis

Summary:

Develop your understanding of the fundamental principles of inorganic chemistry through lectures, workshops and tutorials. This module will provide you with solid foundations for the remainder of the course.

Assessment Method:

Exam 75%, Class test 25%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Shape, Structure and Reactivity in Organic Chemistry

Code:

CH1OR1

Convenor:

DR Jessica Gusthart

Summary:

This module introduces students to the basic concepts of organic chemistry (to encompass the structure of organic compounds, their isomerism, the concept of a functional group and their predictable reactivity, and the unifying concept of mechanisms) in order to provide the foundation for treatment of the subject in greater depth in later modules or to better appreciate related subjects such as Biochemistry.

Assessment Method:

Exam 75%, Class test 25%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Physical Processes and Molecular Organisation

Code:

CH1PH1

Convenor:

DR Joanne Elliott

Summary:

You will develop your knowledge of the fundamental principles of physical chemistry by studying the core concepts of physical processes and molecular organisation in some depth. In lectures you will learn key concepts and in workshops you will explore your understanding.    

Assessment Method:

Exam 75%, Set exercise 25%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Laboratory Skills for Chemists

Code:

CH1PRA

Convenor:

DR Jessica Gusthart

Summary:

The module is aimed at teaching some of the fundamental laboratory skills required for a practising chemist.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Chemical Concepts and Skills 1

Code:

CH1CC2

Convenor:

DR Joanne Elliott

Summary:

Develop the key skills necessary for success in higher level studies, including independent learning, problem-solving, team-working, time management, scientific writing and presenting. You will reflect on your own personal strengths and weaknesses and start to think about your professional development and career plans.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 30%, Oral 30%, Set exercise 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Chemistry M

Code:

CH1M

Convenor:

PROF Ann Chippindale

Summary:

This module aims to provide students with the mathematical tools needed for the chemistry degree programme. 

You will be provided with the mathematical skills needed to underpin your chemistry degree. Information is initially delivered through lectures and online material and you will have plenty of opportunity to talk to experts in a supportive environment and practise your new skills in weekly workshops.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 10%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Mathematics M2

Code:

CH1M2

Convenor:

PROF Ann Chippindale

Summary:

A mathematics course for chemistry students

You will be provided with the mathematical skills needed to underpin your chemistry degree. Information is initially delivered through lectures and online material and you will have plenty of opportunity to talk to experts in a supportive environment and practise your new skills in weekly workshops.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Introduction to Marketing

Code:

AP1EM1

Convenor:

MR Nick Walker

Summary:

Gain fundamental knowledge of the key concepts of marketing and relate these critically to contemporary practice. Examine traditional approaches to marketing such as strategic marketing, segmentation, targeting and positioning, as well as the marketing mix, and discuss issues arising within marketing theory and practice, which bring into question some of the foundational principles of the discipline. Through lectures, readings, and the analysis of case studies, address the latest thinking within the marketing discipline.

Assessment Method:

Class test 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Introduction to Management

Code:

AP1SB1

Convenor:

PROF Julian Park

Summary:

This module provides a contemporary and comprehensive introduction to management science and its relevance to businesses. Interactive in-class activities and the use of online apps will help you learn techniques for inspiring teamwork in an organisation context, discover the importance of strategic management design for achieving an organisation's goals, and understand the roles of the manager and the responsibilities this carries. You will also have a range of opportunities to gain hands-on practising decision making through case studies. Furthermore, develop your leadership skills to motivate and guide a team towards the achievement of an organisation’s objectives.  

Assessment Method:

Class test 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Forensic Anthropology and the Archaeology of Death [10 credit]

Code:

AR1FOR10

Convenor:

DR Ceri Falys

Summary:

This module investigates the archaeological methods employed in the scientific study of the dead, both from modern crime scenes and within older archaeological contexts. Through a series of case studies, you will explore the role of forensic archaeologists and anthropologists (working within the context of the ethics, law and politics) behind the examination of human remains.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

The Economics of Climate Change

Code:

EC110

Convenor:

DR Stefania Lovo

Summary:

The module will offer an economic perspective on the causes and consequences of climate change. It will provide an introduction to key theoretical concepts, such as externalities and public goods, and to the policy tools available to devise adequate responses to climate change, such as command and control measures, taxation and subsidies. The module will also introduce national and international policy approaches in dealing with climate change and provide an overview of their implications for economic development.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Class test 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Modern Britain Society, History and Politics

Code:

IL1GMB

Convenor:

MRS Daniela Standen

Summary:

This module aims to provide an introduction to key aspects of modern British society, politics and history, identifying past and present issues.

Topics explored include the historical and political landscape of Post war Britain, British identities, patterns of inequality, education, religion, and Britain’s relationship with Europe.

In the Summer term students will work independently to explore a specific from the range taught in Term 1, to develop knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles and demonstrate an ability to evaluate and interpret these.

Assessment Method:

Oral 40%, Project 60%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

The Science of Climate Change

Code:

MT1CC

Convenor:

PROF Nigel Arnell

Summary:

This module provides an introduction to the science of climate change, aimed at students who do not necessarily have a scientific background.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Assignment 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Analytical Chemistry

Code:

CH2AN3

Convenor:

DR Jessica Gusthart

Summary:

Learn about the exciting state-of-the art analytical instrumentation offered by the Chemical Analysis Facility in the Chemistry Department. First you will discover the fundamental theories that underpin these instruments from lectures given by experts in the field. Then you will practice applying your knowledge to solving real-life problems in analytical chemistry through a series of workshops. Analytical chemistry is the most popular career for Reading graduates who progress to chemistry-related jobs, so this could be the most important course you will take!

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Chemical Concepts and Skills 2

Code:

CH2CC2

Convenor:

DR Joanne Elliott

Summary:

On this module you will develop your research skills, problem solving skills, writing skills and oral communication skills. In addition you will be encouraged to plan a career path, and learn how to best present yourself both in print and verbally.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 25%, Oral 75%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Core Cosmetic Science 1

Code:

CH2CCS1

Convenor:

DR Philippa Cranwell

Summary:

The aim of this module is to introduce students to the chemistry behind cosmetic science, and provide a grounding such that they can complete module Core Cosmetic Science 2.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 50%, Oral 20%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Further Inorganic Chemistry

Code:

CH2IN1

Convenor:

PROF Anthony Powell

Summary:

Build on your understanding of key aspects of inorganic chemistry through lectures, tutorials and workshops. Topic include main group and transition metal chemistry, organometallic chemistry, symmetry and structural chemistry.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Further Organic Chemistry

Code:

CH2OR1

Convenor:

DR John McKendrick

Summary:

Learn the chemistry necessary to make some of the most important molecules that you encounter every day, be they medicines, household products or cosmetics. The ability to manipulate and make new C-C bonds opens up a world of interdisciplinary science. This module covers many of the ways organic chemists make molecules whose structure is limited only by our imagination.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Further Physical Chemistry

Code:

CH2PH1

Convenor:

DR Joanne Elliott

Summary:

Deepen your understanding of core aspects of physical chemistry, including kinetics, spectroscopy, electrochemistry, statistical thermodynamics, molecular modelling and surfaces and interfaces. Put the theory into practice in regular workshops and discuss the key ideas in small-group tutorials.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Extended Laboratory Skills for Chemists

Code:

CH2PRAC

Convenor:

DR Michael Piperakis

Summary:

In the Part 1 practicals, you developed your basic experimental techniques; learnt good laboratory practice; gained an awareness of COSHH regulations; and were taught how to analyse data and work in teams. Now, in the Part 2 practicals, you will have the chance to apply these experimental techniques; further your understanding of COSHH; and learn about scientific report writing and error analysis in a more independent setting. The Part 2 practical course is the perfect preparation exercise for the fully independent open-ended research project that you will undertake in your final year, when imperfect “real-life” data must be used to generate new knowledge.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Further Cosmetic Science 1

Code:

CH3FCS1

Convenor:

DR Adam Bromley

Summary:

The aim of this module is to give students a solid foundation in the chemical knowledge required when working in the cosmetics industry

Assessment Method:

Exam 75%, Assignment 25%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

d and f block chemistry

Code:

CH3I1

Convenor:

PROF Christine Cardin

Summary:

To introduce students to a range of applications of coordination chemistry in both d and f block elements, by covering organometallic chemistry, bioinorganic chemistry and f block chemistry.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Launching a Product 1

Code:

CH3LP1

Convenor:

DR Al Edwards

Summary:

To give students an understanding of the lifecycle of a product launch, such that they can effectively plan a launch and know the core issues that need to be addressed.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 25%, Set exercise 25%, Portfolio 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Advanced Organic Chemistry - Synthesis of Complex Targets

Code:

CH3O1

Convenor:

DR John McKendrick

Summary:

This course aims to extend the synthetic methods introduced in the first and second years to the preparation, characterisation and manipulation of macromolecules and materials of biological and synthetic origin.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Advanced Topics in Physical Chemistry 1

Code:

CH3P1

Convenor:

DR Joanne Elliott

Summary:

Study advanced physical chemistry in-depth.  On this module you will develop your understanding of colloids, electrode kinetics, quantum mechanics and chemical kinetics.  In lectures you will learn key concepts and in workshops you will explore your understanding.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

X-ray Techniques & Databases in Analytical Chemistry

Code:

CH3AN1

Convenor:

PROF Ann Chippindale

Summary:

The students will gain an understanding of the use of X-ray techniques in determining crystal structures and analysing materials by single-crystal and powder X-ray diffraction. The techniques will be compared with those used in neutron-diffraction studies. Students will learn how to extract structural information from crystallographic databases.

You will be introduced to the theory and practice of X-ray diffraction – a key tools used by chemists to determine how atoms are arranged in crystals (crystal structure) and identify materials found in, for example, forensic, pharmaceutical and archaeological samples. In addition, there will be a tour of our state-of-the-art X-ray facilities here in Reading and hands on experience of searching worldwide crystallographic databases to investigate how atomic arrangements can influence the physical and chemical properties of a particular material.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Advanced Analytical Techniques for Inorganic Structure Determination

Code:

CH3AN2

Convenor:

PROF Frantisek Hartl

Summary:

You will develop your understanding of advanced analytical chemical techniques, specifically in the areas of electrochemistry, photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence, and electron paramagnetic resonance.

Assessment Method:

Exam 75%, Class test 25%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Advanced Analytical Techniques for the Pharmaceutical Sciences

Code:

CH3AN3

Convenor:

DR John McKendrick

Summary:

Study of modern analytical chemistry techniques relevant to the molecular sciences.

Assessment Method:

Exam 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Clusters, Extended Arrays and Solid-State Chemistry

Code:

CH3I2

Convenor:

PROF Ann Chippindale

Summary:

To develop students’ knowledge of chemical systems as they increase in complexity from small molecules to clusters, extended arrays and finally to infinite solids. To introduce students to methods of synthesising different classes of material. To give the students a working knowledge of the relationship between structure and properties in the solid state together with technologically important examples.

An introduction to the chemistry of solids ranging from nanoparticles to small molecular clusters to extended solids. Why do some materials conduct electricity and some do not? How can ions move through solid structures? All this and more will be explained.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Advanced Organic Chemistry - Contemporary Synthetic Methodology

Code:

CH3O2

Convenor:

DR Chris Smith

Summary:

The course aims to relate advanced topics in organic chemistry to topics covered in previous modules and provide a foundation of knowledge to enable a better understanding of the primary chemical literature.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Advanced Topics in Physical Chemistry 2

Code:

CH3P2

Convenor:

DR Ricardo Grau-Crespo

Summary:

Learn advanced techniques in physical chemistry that you can use to investigate the properties of molecules and solids. You will study important concepts in surface science and catalysis, and the experimental techniques employed in these fields. You will also learn how to perform computer simulations of chemical systems, based on quantum chemistry.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 10%, Report 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Innovation and Product Development

Code:

PM3IPD1

Convenor:

DR Al Edwards

Summary:

PM3IPD1 gives students an understanding of the innovation process “from science to person”, introducing the core topics of scientific innovation and product development (focussed on medicines, medical devices and cosmetics), whilst developing core skills that link science to industry. Students will learn to identify critical business development challenges that need to be addressed for science to benefit society.

This part 3 module will introduce students to core topics surrounding the societal and industrial challenge of translating science into real-world public benefit in the form of innovative products. The taught content covers the full range of innovation skills and knowledge, including a range of critical business development areas, alongside details of the product development pathway. Innovation topics include customer and market insight, intellectual property, finance, business development, and finally leadership. Students will also follow the lifecycle of a product launch, becoming aware how to effectively plan a product launch. This will be applied to a broad spectrum of products arising from a range of chemical and life sciences including pharmacology and pharmaceutical science; chemistry and cosmetic chemistry; biomedical science and bioengineering. Diverse case studies of real products and innovations, plus product concepts, will be explored by students. These will include pharmaceuticals, medical devices, chemical industry and cosmetic products, to allow students to connect with their respective degrees.

No prior knowledge of innovation is required, but we expect students to bring their expertise in their respective degree subject to the module. Interprofessional communication skills are vital for innovation, and students from different backgrounds will benefit from studying together. For example, pharmacology students will benefit from gaining an understanding of chemical formulation and bioengineering. Cosmetic chemistry students will get a chance to understand the connection between consumer products and healthcare/pharmaceuticals. Bioscience students will gain insight into how fundamental biomedical science can translate into products that benefit society. A key requirement is applying science and engineering principles to innovation and product development.

The students will learn by doing, gaining transferrable innovation skills. The module thus teaches the core skills and knowledge to navigate the path “from science to person”.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.