MSc (Res) in Chemistry - Structural chemistry and chemical dynamics

University of St Andrews

The MSc by Research, or MSc (Res) degree offers the opportunity to gain key independent research skills with a focus on industrially relevant projects. There is no compulsory coursework instead, the student focuses on training through undertaking a research project. The course is designed for students and professionals who have a degree in Chemistry or a similar subject. This research-based degree will increase your proficiency in a range of advanced chemistry concepts and analytical techniques, by working in a world-leading research environment with potential to be involved with industrially relevant projects. The rational design of functional molecules and novel materials requires a fundamental understanding of structures on a range of different length scales. Structural chemistry allows the tailored design, synthesis and characterisation of materials with novel magnetic, electronic and (photo)catalytic properties. It is also essential to probe the dynamics of molecular processes, reactivity and structural evolution. Experimental and theoretical investigations of chemical dynamics provide insight into crystal engineering, geological processes and supramolecular self-assembly. Research in this theme utilises a range of characterisation techniques including NMR, EPR, diffraction (X-ray, electron and neutron), laser spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, surface analysis (STM, AFM, NEXAFS, XPS) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy complemented by state-of-the-art computational methods. These tools are capable of high spatial and/or temporal resolution allowing the precise characterisation of the structure of biological molecules and novel materials and the dynamics of molecular transformations and materials processing.

Chemistry