MChem CHEMISTRY

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Laboratory Skills for Chemists

Code:

CH1PRA

Convenor:

DR Philippa Cranwell

Summary:

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

Assessment Method:

Report 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Shape, Structure and Reactivity in Organic Chemistry

Code:

CH1OR1

Convenor:

DR Andrew Russell

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Fundamentals of Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table

Code:

CH1IN1

Convenor:

DR David Nutt

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Chemical Concepts and Skills 1

Code:

CH1CC2

Convenor:

DR David Nutt

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, through a series of chemistry “challenges”. You will reflect on your own personal strengths and weaknesses and start to think about your professional development and career plans.

Assessment Method:

Oral 18%, Set exercise 83%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Introduction to Marketing

Code:

AP1EM1

Convenor:

MS Sandra Preciado

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:

Exam 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Introduction to Management

Code:

AP1SB1

Convenor:

DR Yiorgos Gadanakis

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Forensic Anthropology and the Archaeology of Death [10 credit]

Code:

AR1FOR10

Convenor:

MRS 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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Current Topics in Zoology and Ecology

Code:

BI1BEA2

Convenor:

DR Phil Baker

Summary:

Assessment Method:

Class test 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Introduction to Linguistics

Code:

ML1IL

Convenor:

DR Federico Faloppa

Summary:

This module aims to familiarise students with principles in general linguistics, and to give students an overall picture of what a language is, how it works, and what its main structures are, with a particular focus on French, German, Italian and Spanish. It will also provide useful meta-linguistic competence which can be applied to the study of any other language.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 40%, Oral 20%, Set exercise 40%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Reason and Argument

Code:

PP1RA

Convenor:

DR Jumbly Grindrod

Summary:

This module enhances students’ ability to understand and construct complex arguments through the study of logic and the psychology of human reasoning. Reading: A module guide will be available. Recommended: Jamie Carlin Watson and Robert Arp, Critical Thinking: An Introduction to Reasoning Well, 2nd edition, Bloomsbury, 2015.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 90%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Analytical Chemistry

Code:

CH2AN3

Convenor:

DR Geoffrey Brown

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Extended Laboratory Skills for Chemists

Code:

CH2PRAC

Convenor:

DR Geoffrey Brown

Summary:

In 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 practical, 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 training 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:

Report 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Further Physical Chemistry

Code:

CH2PH1

Convenor:

DR David Nutt

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Further Inorganic Chemistry

Code:

CH2IN1

Convenor:

DR David Nutt

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Development of transferable skills through a school placement 1

Code:

ED2TS1

Convenor:

DR Caroline Foulkes

Summary:

This module enables undergraduate students to develop key transferable skills needed for employment, and also provides outreach experience. Following specialist training on key aspects of working in schools, five day placements in June/July in
secondary schools in the Reading area will provide work experience in a professional setting. In the autumn, students will build on the knowledge and transferable skills acquired in order to plan and deliver, with colleagues, a teaching session that shares knowledge of their degree specialism with small groups of school students. Students will reflect on, and share, their experiences with their colleagues. Assessment will be by coursework, and placement supervisor report on professionalism and engagement.
Students will be selected by application and interview.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Oral 50%, Portfolio 40%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Analysis

Code:

AR2F17

Convenor:

PROF Mary Lewis

Summary:

The module will provide an introduction to the theoretical aspects, methodology and practical aspects of forensic archaeology and crime scene investigations.

Assessment Method:

Report 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

The Uses of Metals in Medicine

Code:

CH2MIM

Convenor:

DR Katja Strohfeldt-Venables

Summary:

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Medicinal Chemistry 2 for Chemists

Code:

CH2MC2

Convenor:

DR John McKendrick

Summary:

The study of medicinal chemistry is the study of the development, testing and biology of organic molecules designed to treat disease. This module acts as a gateway, in that we develop concepts from Biology and Chemistry to show how important they are in the drug design an improvement process. Through study you will begin to appreciate the skill and knowledge that chemists in this field must master as part of this vitally important career.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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, electron microscopy, vibrational spectroscopy and magnetic resonance.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Introduction to Chemistry Research and Practice

Code:

CH3CRP

Convenor:

DR Chris Smith

Summary:

To gain an overview of current chemical research as carried out in the Department of Chemistry, within the current research groupings. To gain an overview of final year project and postgraduate opportunities in the Department of Chemistry. To explore, in detail, a specific research topic of interest to the student in partnership with an academic member of staff and present on this to an audience of peers and experts. To write a research synopsis thus demonstrating the capacity for independent and original thought.

Assessment Method:

Oral 30%, Dissertation 60%, Project 10%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Advanced Chemistry Practical Training

Code:

CH3PRAC

Convenor:

DR Roger Bennett

Summary:

This module is designed to provide students with advanced practical skills in chemistry and incorporates analytical, organic, inorganic and physical disciplines. Training is given in advanced experimental methods in Physical, Inorganic and Organic chemistry. These range from specific techniques, and synthesis, to quantitative measurements and instrumentation. In the Spring Term students are engaged in longer, open ended, experiments which that build on the work in Autumn Term. Students may indicate their preference for these extended experiments to be in either Physical or Organic, and either Inorganic or Analytical.

Assessment Method:

Report 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Advanced Organic Chemistry - Synthesis of Complex Targets

Code:

CH3O1

Convenor:

DR Geoffrey Brown

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Catalysis

Code:

CH4I2

Convenor:

PROF Frantisek Hartl

Summary:

Fundamentals of catalysis, including thermodynamic and kinetic principles. Transition metals and their compounds as catalysts. Homogeneous and heterogeneous transition metal catalysis. Transition metal organometallic chemistry as a basis for homogeneous catalysis of organic reactions. Reaction intermediates and catalytic cycles. Matrix isolation as a method to study reaction intermediates including those which may be models for intermediates in catalytic cycles.

Assessment Method:

Exam 90%, Oral 10%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Advanced Organic Chemistry - Synthesis of Complex Targets (2)

Code:

CH4O1

Convenor:

DR Geoffrey Brown

Summary:

Learn the most up-to-date techniques for controlling chirality in the synthesis of complex molecular targets and study the chemistry of heterocycles with more than one heteroatom. Both topics build on the basics of organic chemistry that you have learnt during the first three years of your degree. This course should be useful to  anyone planning to pursue a chemistry-related career in the future.

Assessment Method:

Exam 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

MChem Chemistry Project

Code:

CH4PR

Convenor:

DR Roger Bennett

Summary:

Get first-hand experience of working as part of a research group on an extended, open-ended research problem.

Assessment Method:

Oral 30%, Dissertation 40%, Project 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Chemistry in Industry and Professional Skills

Code:

CH4SK

Convenor:

DR John McKendrick

Summary:

The practice of Chemistry outside the University environment is very different. Throughout this module you will be taught by experts in their respective fields; their aim is to show how aspects of the chemistry you have been studying are developed and deployed in the diverse chemistry job sphere. You will learn how chemists in these fields are utilised and how your future job will require you to take on board new skills and knowledge. But most of important of all, you will see how central the Chemist can be in many fields.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Current Topics in Chemical Research

Code:

CH4CR

Convenor:

DR David Nutt

Summary:

Learn about the latest scientific research being carried out at other universities at the Department’s research seminar series. Develop your skills in scientific communication through writing tasks for expert and non-expert audiences. Reflect on what makes a good scientific presentation.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Advanced Analytical Techniques for the Molecular Sciences

Code:

CH4AN1

Convenor:

PROF Rainer Cramer

Summary:

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

Assessment Method:

Exam 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Functional Inorganic Materials

Code:

CH4I3

Convenor:

PROF Anthony Powell

Summary:

In this advanced course, you will learn about fundamental aspects of the magnetic and electronic properties of solid-state materials. You will discover how these underlying physical properties can be exploited in functional materials for a range of technological applications.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Oligosaccharides and Natural Products

Code:

CH4O4

Convenor:

DR Geoffrey Brown

Summary:

You’ve learnt the basics of organic chemistry during the first three years of your degree. Now you are ready for some more in-depth studies of exciting topics at the frontiers of this multi-disciplinary science! Learn how to approach the synthesis of a complex organic molecule through a programmed series of workshops given by experienced medicinal chemists. Discover the world of oligosaccharides and study their chemical synthesis from lectures by an expert in the field. Marvel at the diversity of natural products that have inspired organic chemists for centuries, but have only recently revealed their biosynthetic secrets. This is an essential course for anyone planning a future career that will involve organic chemistry!

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 30%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Advanced Techniques in Physical Chemistry

Code:

CH4P3

Convenor:

PROF Georg Held

Summary:

This module will cover a range of modern physico-chemical measurement and modelling techniques, and is taught entirely by experienced external practitioners (from industry and national research facilities) who are experts in their field.

Assessment Method:

Exam 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.