Chemical Research

The MRes Chemical Research is ideal if you wish to further your research career or update your training. You will join an existing research group under the guidance of a supervisor, and spend the majority of time on an individually tailored research project in any of our current research areas that include some reference to chemical and biological sciences. During this Master's in chemical research, you will also partake in group activities, including research colloquia and presentations, and attend advanced lectures on the theoretical and technical background to your chosen research area.

By the end of the course, you will have acquired a firm grasp of recent advances in your field of study and be able to formulate a research or method development plan and carry out the appropriate literature and data searches. You will also be able to apply a critical and professional approach to data quality, carry out chemical manipulations and operate advanced equipment, and work safely and efficiently in a laboratory, carrying out risk assessments where appropriate.

This is a laboratory-based subject, which means individual contact between staff and students is frequent. Numerous opportunities exist and are created for you to comment on, and take responsibility for, the direction of your studies.

Highlights

Opportunity to be involved in topical, leading-edge research with teachers who have achieved international recognition.

Offers the possibility of collaborating with industry.

High-quality instrumental and computing facilities. We also provide a seminar programme and skills training across disciplines.

In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), in a joint submission with UCL, Biological Sciences at Birkbeck were ranked 11th in the UK, with a research environment supporting world-leading and internationally excellent research.

Careers and employability

Graduates can pursue career paths in the health sector, toxicology, pharmaceuticals, academia and manufacturing. Possible professions include:

academic researcher

higher education lecturer

analytical chemist

forensic scientist

pharmacologist.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.