Contemporary Organic Synthesis
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| CHEM4020 | Chemistry | 4 | 10 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- CHEM4020
- School
- Chemistry
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 10
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
The module will focus on the synthesis of a variety of natural (and unnatural) compounds of relevance to biology and medicine, with particular reference to the goals and achievements of contemporary organic synthesis as illustrated by a range of case studies. There will be particular emphasis on the use of modern synthetic methodology to address problems such as chemoselectivity, regiocontrol, stereoselectivity, atom economy and sustainability. The module will focus on the application of new methodology for the rapid, efficient and highly selective construction of a range of target compounds, particularly those that display significant biological activity. The module will also address how a greater understanding of mechanism is important in modern organic chemistry.
Target Students
MSci Chemistry OR MSci Medicinal and Biological Chemistry OR MSci Chemistry and Molecular Physics OR MSci Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry OR Natural Sciences AND Level 4 students.
Classes
- One 2-hour workshop
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 2 weeks
- Two 1-hour lectures each week for 7 weeks
- One 1-hour lecture
Assessment
- 100% Exam 1 (2-hour): Second re-assessment: If a further re-assessment is allowed by satisfying the conditions of Undergraduate Course Regulation 19, the form of the further re-assessment for this module will be 100% coursework.
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
1. To provide an appreciation and understanding of contemporary organic synthesis with focus on the design and implementation of strategies for the synthesis of compounds that are important in biology and medicine. 2. To compare and contrast different synthetic strategies and tactics for the assembly of complex molecules. 3. To establish a thorough grounding in the use of modern synthetic methodology, including transition-metal and organocatalysis, and asymmetric synthesis. 4. To emphasise the importance of mechanistic understanding of organic reactions.Learning Outcomes
At the end of this Module you should:
1. Be aware of contemporary issues of relevance to organic synthesis such as regiocontrol and stereoselectivity, efficiency (atom economy), and sustainability.
2. Appreciate the role of strategy and design in synthesis.
3. Understand the relevance of organic synthesis to the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, particularly at the interface with biology and medicine.
4. Analyse methods available for the efficient and selective construction of carbon halogen bonds, and understand the mechanisms of such processes.
5. Apply the above skills to a range of organic systems.
6. Have and understanding of asymmetric catalysis, strategies and challenges in natural product synthesis and pyridine chemistry.
7. Develop transferable skills in problem-solving, literature evaluation and written communication.