Neuroscience for Drug Discovery is a specialised area combining neuroscience and pharmacology that focuses on using insights from fundamental neuroscience research to discover and develop novel pharmaceutical interventions for the treatment of neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s and auto-immune diseases.
It represents an interdisciplinary approach that combines the knowledge of how the nervous system functions with treatment targets and drug development strategies. Once potential drug targets are identified, researchers work on identifying compounds or drugs that can modulate these key elements and restore normal function or alleviate symptoms. This includes repurposing of existing approved drugs for use in new disease areas or new patient populations.
“We want our students to become active members of academic and industrial research communities in the field of neuroscience and drug discovery, learning state-of-the-art approaches in our facilities and joining us in pursuit of new understanding and treatments that make a difference.”
You will have the opportunity to complete research practicals using some of the advanced technologies of Neuroscience, including real-time recording of brain cells using research-grade in vitro setups, receptor pharmacology experiments, molecular neuroscience techniques and EEG and EMG. These sessions are supported by training in core research skills such as formulating a scientific research question, scoping and implementing research designs, and advanced programming and data analysis.
The major practical component of the course is the research dissertation project, which will provide you with the opportunity to develop, implement and communicate an original piece of research. This project is completed with the support of a research mentor in neuroscience, pharmacology and related fields.
At Aston University, we are committed to advancing high-impact scientific discoveries. Our researchers and teaching staff are dedicated to technological and medical innovation, driving breakthroughs in brain science and deepening understanding of neurological conditions.
This programme gives you the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research projects and collaborate with research-active experts in neuroscience, pharmacology and drug discovery. You’ll benefit from Aston’s strong connections with local, national and international partners across industry and academia, opening pathways to careers in research, clinical practice and the wider pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.
We welcome applications from candidates interested in this course who have the skills and desire to excel. All candidates are considered on an individual basis based on their qualifications, experience, references and motivation.
The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this course. Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with the relevant admissions teams prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.
All applicants require: