Module Overview

Forensic, Environmental and Pharmaceutical Analysis

This module is at an introductory level. It is delivered in Semester 2. It is designed to provide the student with an introduction to the application of Analytical chemistry to Forensic, Environmental and Pharmaceutical science.

The practical and continuous assessment element of the module is designed to reinforce the lecture material.

Module Code

CHEM 1304

ECTS Credits

5

*Curricular information is subject to change

Environmental Chemistry:

 

Environmental chemistry case studies – Atmosphere - Ozone layer, chlorofluorocarbons and halons, alternatives, Greenhouse effect, alternative sources of energy, nuclear, wind wave. Acid rain. Water – introduction to pollutants and methods of treatment. Methods used in distillation and ion exchange. Flocculation. Introduction to solid waste treatment (4 hours lectures)

 

Forensic analysis:

 

History and milestones in Forensic Science. Introduction to Crime scene examination and preservation of evidence. Fingerprint analysis. Case study: from crime scene to courtroom. (4 hours lectures)

 

Pharmaceutical analysis:

 

Introduction to qualitative and quantitative analysis in Environmental, Forensic and Pharmaceutical laboratories. Introduction to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Process (GMP).

 Overview of the regulatory requirements associated with the production of pharmaceuticals.     (4 hours lectures)

 

 

Laboratory Programme:

 

 Laboratory component: 7 x 3 hour laboratory / workshop sessions.

Workshops will include guidance on working effectively in groups and group dynamics and one additional 3 hour session will be used for the group presentations.

The component lab practical and workshops will be selected from the following or suitable alternatives;

  • Fingerprinting workshop (assessment – worksheet)
  • TLC analysis of suspect documents (assessment – worksheet)
  • Environmental analysis (assessment – worksheet)
  • Synthesis, purification and characterisation of paracetamol (assessment – lab report)
  • Discussion on ethics and research integrity (assessment – short report)
  • Academic reading and writing skills (assessment - abstract written on scientific articles from the RSC magazine, Chemistry World)
  • Guest speaker presentations (assessment - Review of information provided)
  • Site visit to the courts or to an environmental analysis lab (assessment – short report)

 

Laboratory work is sourced from the School of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory Manuals

Students will learn through lectures that incorporate student learning activities and laboratory practicals and workshops.

Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown %
Other Assessment(s)100