Structured PhD (Chemistry)—full-time

Our PhD degree programme is a structured programme that is primarily based on carrying out scientific research and the submission of a PhD research thesis by the end of the four-year period.  As part of the structured programme students complete developmental modules to enhance their professional transferable skills, which are required to succeed in the modern work environment. Such courses include core and elective choices.

Normally students will take 30 credits through these modules.

Research in the School of Chemistry is organized into three complementary groupings or clusters which cut across the traditional boundaries of Organic, Inorganic, and Physical chemistry.  This research aligns with themes identified in Innovation 2020 (Ireland’s strategy for research and development, science and technology), particularly in the areas of health & medical; energy; manufacturing & materials.  It is also aligned with the national priority research areas of therapeutics—synthesis, formulation, processing and drug delivery; diagnostics and medical devices.

Research in the School of Chemistry is organized into three complementary groupings or clusters which cut across the traditional boundaries of Organic, Inorganic, and Physical chemistry.  This research aligns with themes identified in Innovation 2020 (Ireland’s strategy for research and development, science and technology), particularly in the areas of health & medical; energy; manufacturing & materials.  It is also aligned with the national priority research areas of therapeutics – synthesis, formulation, processing and drug delivery; diagnostics and medical devices.

Medicinal and Bioactive Chemistry (MBC)

This cluster encompasses synthetic and natural products chemistry, with a focus on the discovery and characterisation of novel bioactive compounds/materials. Key areas include carbohydrates, marine natural products, peptides, heterocycles, bioactive metal complexes, polymers and solid-state pharmaceuticals.  Members actively engage with CÚRAM, Marine Institute, Ryan Institute, and the Synthesis & Solid State Pharmaceutical Centre. (SSPC)

Bioanalytical and Biophysical Chemistry (BBC)

Using a variety of chemical, bio-analytical, and computational techniques this cluster investigates the structure and function of biomolecules and biomaterials, with applications in the bio-pharmaceutical and biomedical sectors.  There is emphasis on understanding biomolecules in complex environments, such as the crowded cell interior, and at surfaces/interfaces. The members actively contribute to centres, including CCB, CÚRAM, NIBRT, and SSPC. There are multiple large-scale Biopharma industry engagements.

Materials for Energy and Environment (MEE)

Here the aim is to develop novel materials and devices for energy and environmental applications. The research includes improved understanding of (bio)fuel combustion, development of nanomaterials for green energy, and novel devices for environmental analysis and biosensing. Members of this cluster are part of research centres including MAREI and the Ryan Institute.