University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

The programme combines taught modules with an extended research project. Core themes cover molecular and cellular pharmacology, clinical pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and contemporary drug discovery and development. Teaching emphasises mechanistic understanding of drug–receptor interactions, signal transduction pathways, and the translation of preclinical data to clinical settings.

• Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology – receptor pharmacology, intracellular signalling, receptor regulation and methods for studying drug action in cells.
• Neuropharmacology and Systems Pharmacology – pharmacology of the nervous system, neurotransmitter systems, and integrated physiological responses to drugs.
• Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics – absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME), dose–response relationships and PK/PD modelling.
• Drug Discovery and Development – target identification, lead optimisation, preclinical testing, translational strategies and regulatory considerations.
• Research Methods and Statistics – experimental design, data analysis, modern laboratory techniques, and use of bioinformatics resources relevant to pharmacology.
• Laboratory Skills and Practical Techniques – hands-on training in in vitro and in vivo pharmacology assays, cell culture, molecular biology tools, and analytical methods often used in industry and academic research.
• Research Project / Dissertation – an extended original research project supervised by academic staff, typically laboratory-based but occasionally literature- or data-based, culminating in a dissertation and oral presentation.

Modules are delivered through lectures, practical laboratory classes, seminars and journal clubs. The programme emphasises critical appraisal of primary literature and the development of practical experimental competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK second-class honours degree (2:1) or international equivalent in pharmacology, biomedical science, pharmacy, veterinary science, medicine or a closely related biological science. Applicants with a lower undergraduate classification but substantial relevant laboratory experience or a relevant postgraduate qualification may be considered.

• Relevant laboratory or research experience is advantageous, particularly for candidates who wish to undertake a laboratory-based research project.
• Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University’s English language requirements; typical evidence includes IELTS or equivalent qualifications.
• Application materials normally include a personal statement outlining your suitability and research interests, an academic CV and one or two academic or professional references.

Career prospects

Graduates of Advanced Pharmacology at Strathclyde typically move into roles across the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and healthcare sectors or continue in academic research. The programme provides the scientific and practical skills employers seek for early-career research posts and specialist roles.

• Industry research scientist roles in drug discovery and preclinical development.
• Clinical research and clinical trials coordination or monitoring roles.
• Regulatory affairs, quality assurance and pharmacovigilance positions.
• Medical affairs and scientific communications roles supporting product lifecycle and education.
• Progression to PhD study or other research-based postgraduate training.
• Laboratory management, technical specialist and analytical roles in contract research organisations (CROs) or public-sector research institutes.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde has a long-standing tradition in applied biomedical science and strong links with industry and the NHS, which supports translational research and employability. The university’s laboratories and teaching facilities provide hands-on training in contemporary pharmacological techniques, and academic staff are active in research areas spanning molecular pharmacology to translational therapeutics.

Located in Glasgow, Strathclyde benefits from proximity to a growing life sciences cluster and partnerships with local hospitals, research institutes and pharmaceutical companies, creating opportunities for collaborations, placements and skills development. The department places emphasis on vocationally relevant training, professional development and support for students pursuing research or industry careers.