Drug Discovery and Development - Multidisciplinary Science for Next Generation Therapeutics
The Master of Research in Drug Discovery and Development is a one-year, full-time program at Imperial College London focused on the science and process of drug discovery. Students will explore the multidisciplinary approach to drug development, which combines chemistry, biology, pharmacology, and clinical trials. The program covers topics such as target identification, drug screening, medicinal chemistry, and the regulatory processes involved in bringing a drug to market.
Graduates will be equipped to work in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, focusing on drug development, preclinical research, and clinical trials. The program’s practical approach ensures that students are ready to engage in the development of next-generation therapeutics, with a focus on personalized medicine and targeted treatments.
Key information
Key Facts
Program Title: Master of Research in Drug Discovery and Development - Multidisciplinary Science for Next Generation Therapeutics
Degree Type: Master of Research (MRes)
Duration: 1 year
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Application Deadline: 30th June 2026
Location: Imperial College London, United Kingdom
Field of Study: Biochemistry
Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Core Drug Discovery and Development
- Principles of Drug Design and Medicinal Chemistry
- Molecular Pharmacology
- High-Throughput Screening and Assay Development
- Research Methods in Drug Discovery
Semester 2 – Advanced Applications and Research Project
- Translational Therapeutics and Preclinical Development
- Target Identification and Validation
- Independent Research Project
- Elective Modules in Bioinformatics or Chemical Biology
Career Opportunities
Graduates from this program are prepared for careers in pharmaceutical research, drug development, and biotechnology. They can work in pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, research institutions, and regulatory agencies, contributing to the discovery, design, and development of new therapeutic agents. The program equips students with technical, analytical, and research skills, enabling them to perform target identification, drug screening, and preclinical evaluation. Graduates can also pursue roles in clinical research, translational medicine, scientific consultancy, or academic research, and they are well-prepared for doctoral studies in drug discovery, pharmacology, or related biomedical sciences.
Why Choose This Program
This program provides a research-intensive, one-year pathway into drug discovery and development, integrating cutting-edge theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory experience. It emphasizes target identification, therapeutic development, and translational research, allowing students to gain expertise in modern drug discovery techniques. The independent research project provides hands-on experience in experimental design, data analysis, and problem-solving, helping students build a professional portfolio. Graduates leave the program with the skills and competencies to make an immediate impact in pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, and translational therapeutics, or to pursue advanced doctoral studies in drug discovery and biomedical sciences.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)20 7589 5111
Email: admissions@imperial.ac.uk
Address: Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
