Catalysis (MSc)

Sut y caf fy addysgu?

The methods of teaching we employ will vary from module to module, as appropriate depending on the subject matter and the method of assessment. We teach using a mixture of lectures, workshops, tutorials, practicals and self-directed learning.

Your research project will be carried out in research laboratories under the supervision of an academic member of staff with interests in a similar field.

Modules relating to computing frequently take place in our computer rooms, while practical work and your research project will be undertaken in our laboratories.

Students will also benefit of the weekly seminars organised by the School of Chemistry, where leading experts in various scientific fields are invited to present their work.

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Taught modules are assessed in a variety of different ways depending on the module content and learning outcomes (found in the module descriptions). We use course work, assessed workshops, presentations and examinations or a combination of these to assess your progress on the course.

Your research project at the end of the course will be assessed through a dissertation, a presentation, and an oral exam.

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All of our students are allocated a personal tutor when they enrol on the course. A personal tutor is there to support you during your studies, and can advise you on academic and personal matters that may be affecting you. You should have regular meetings with your personal tutor to ensure that you are fully supported. Many of our staff operate an open door policy and meetings can be arranged at mutually convenient times to discuss your work.

You will have access to the Science Library, which holds our collection of chemistry resources, as well as to the other Cardiff University Libraries. In addition to the library facilities the University has extensive electronic resources of text books and research journals that can be accessed online.

Feedback

We offer written and oral feedback, depending on the coursework or assessment you have undertaken. You will usually receive your feedback from the module leader. If you have questions regarding your feedback, module leaders are usually happy to give advice and guidance on your progress.

Pa sgiliau y byddaf yn eu hymarfer a’u datblygu?

On completing the course you should be able to:

• Understand the theory, application, preparation and analysis of catalysis to a level that is appropriate for graduates in chemistry or chemical engineering wishing to pursue a career in academia or industry.
• Use and apply mathematics at an appropriate level to solve problems in catalysis.
• Work within a team to research solutions to unsolved problems in catalysis.
• Present research work to peers in both oral and written format.
• Discuss the applications catalysts have in various processes such as oxidation and pollution control/clean-up.
• Understand the mechanism of action of a variety of transition-metal-based homogeneous catalysts and apply this knowledge to unseen problems.
• Understand how changes to ligands relate to the properties of homogeneous catalysts and use this knowledge in the design of new catalysts.
• Reproduce the basic structures of various types of whole cells used in fermentation-based biocatalysis and know the major advantages and drawbacks of this type of catalysis.
• Reproduce the basic structures of the major macromolecules necessary for biocatalysis to take place – namely proteins and ribonucleic acids.
• Understand how biocatalyst structure, functional groups and solution conditions interrelate and know the major advantages and limitations of purified non-whole cell biocatalysts.
• Relate modern methods for the preparation, purification, evolution and application of biocatalysts.
• Use molecular modelling to explore catalysis from surfaces, through molecular homogeneous catalysts to enzyme structure and function.
• Discuss how modern catalytic methods are applied and can drive the future of a more sustainable chemical industry.

Cardiff is a beautiful city and having lived here all my life I know how much the University has developed over the years, especially in research. The MSc Catalysis course is exemplary; despite my pharmaceutical science background I have been able to build my knowledge and practical skills on the subject thoroughly through the various modules taught on the programme and it has prepared me well for work in industry and towards a career in research. Having the opportunity to work with renowned professors in the field and at the Cardiff Catalysis Institute – the leading catalysis facility in the UK – makes me very proud and I hope I will be able to contribute further to the success of the department and make the most of what Cardiff University has to offer.