2026/27 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

CHEM3320 Topics in Organic, Bioorganic and Interdisciplinary Chemistry

20 Credits Class Size: 100

Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2026/27

Pre-requisite qualifications

Completion of level 2 of a Chemistry programme such as that at Leeds, or equivalent

Pre-requisites

CHEM2321 Organic Chemistry: Structure, Reactions and the Science of L

Mutually Exclusive

CHEM3321 Extended Topics in Organic, Bioorganic and Interdisciplinary

Module replaces

CHEM3291, CHEM3292, CHEM3126, CHEM3226 (in part)

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

On completion of this module students should be able to: - Apply the principles of organic chemistry to explain the reactivity of organic molecules, predict their reaction pathways and suggest appropriate reaction conditions to yield a desired product. - Demonstrate an understanding of topics related to modern organic synthesis.

Objectives

The aim of this module is ensure students learn a range of topics in organic chemistry and are able to demonstrate their understanding to solve complex problems across these areas.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes:

1. Describe and discuss confidently, accurately and in detail, using appropriate terminology from a range of modern topics in organic synthesis and apply these to solve complex problems across these areas.

2. Explain and rationalise the fundamental principles of one or more specialisms within organic synthesis.

Skills outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills:

a. Solve complex unknown problems.

Syllabus

1) Synthetic methods including selective oxidation/reduction, heterocycle synthesis and transition metal-catalysed cross-coupling reactions
2) Selective introduction and removal of protecting groups

Selection of 2 topics from the following list:

3) Process Chemistry
4) Reactive intermediates; carbocations, carbanions, free radicals, carbenes and nitrenes
5) Chemical Biology
6) Biocatalysis
7) Chemical Technologies, Instrumentation and Design of Experiments

Methods of assessment
The assessment details for this module will be provided at the start of the academic year.

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Lecture 77 1 77
Private study hours 123
Total Contact hours 77
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 200

Reading List

Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list

Last updated: 30/04/2026

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team