Nanomedicine, MSc / PGDip / PGCert

Swansea University

The field of nanotechnology is ever increasing in size, and the number of nano-sized (1-100nm) particles being produced on a daily basis is at the tonnage level. Although nanotechnology-based applications are considered to be advantageous for a plethora of human activities, the potential risks posed by human exposure to nanoparticles is a constantly developing field of research. The purpose of this module therefore is to introduce to the student to particle toxicology and how it can impact upon human health. Further to this, the students will undertake a specific practical component to complement that of the theoretical content of the module. To this extent, the students will undertake a week-long, 'mini-project', covering the major areas of nanoparticle toxicology. From this approach, it is intended that the student will experience the key practical approaches taken in the field.

This module will enable students to understand the basic and advanced concepts of separation science, how it is integrated with several forms of compound detection, gain ?hands on? problem solving experience and strategic method development for complete bioanalysis according to compound chemical characteristics and method application.

Regenerative Medicine is the design and application of cell and drug therapies incorporating nanotechnology and nanoscience in order to repair, replace and regenerate human cells, tissues or organs. This module provides the foundation for understanding how tissues can be returned to normal function by first exploring the fascinating anatomy and physiology of cells, tissues, organs and organ systems. The module builds upon the latter knowledge through teaching the core concepts of stem cell biology, including the isolation, characterisation and application of embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotential stem cells and adult stem cells. The potential of tissue engineering will be explored through a thorough understanding of how tissues are biofabricated in vitro ? building on concepts learnt in Anatomy and Stem cell biology.

Nanotechnology may lead to more rapid diagnostic tests, implantable devices, point of care instruments and improved medical imaging. This module will explore the application of nanotechnology to various medical techniques, focussing on novel research devices, pre-clinical tools and emerging technology within hospitals.

This module will explore the history and development of molecular medicines and pharmaceuticals, providing the basis for an advanced understanding of next generation therapeutic approaches. Using landmark technology and chemical development phases informed by separation science and mass spectrometry, the module uses an application driven approach to provide the student with an extensive knowledgebase of drug development, the pharmaceutical industry and nanotherapeutics.

This module will take students through the development process for a novel nanomedicine, highlighting the project management, ethical and regulatory considerations at each stage. The module will also explore the challenges faced from an academic and industry perspective, as well as providing the opportunity for students to learn from industry leaders with direct experience of the research and innovation journey.

In this module the student will be able to gain extensive specialist expertise in a chosen topic which could be targeted to their future career in the field of nanomedicine.

This module explores the concepts, principles and applications of various approaches to data analysis and interpretation for both qualitative (including thematic content analysis) and quantitative methods (including analysis of difference, variance and relationship).