Pharmaceutical chemistry, an amalgamation of basic chemistry and life sciences, is a multidisciplinary field that deals with the principles and applications natural, synthetic, computational and analytical chemistry in the discovery of chemical therapeutics for the prevention and cure of life threatening diseases. This is one of the major areas of drug discovery that caters the ever-increasing demand of new drug molecules for the effective medical practice against various diseases and disorders.  

The pharmaceutical chemistry specialization of the department provides instructional and research training to the students in the areas of drug synthesis, characterization, drug testing etc.

This program was introduced in 2010. The course content is methodically structured and designed to prepare the students for a career in academia as well as the pharmaceutical industry. In addition to this, the program empowers students to continue to pursue higher studies and research activities.

The syllabus of the postgraduate program provides theoretical knowledge in a variety of topics related to drug design, advanced topics in medicinal chemistry, organic chemistry, process chemistry and analytical techniques in the first year of their academic career. The practical exercises that have been framed help the students to get practical skills in diverse areas like analytical techniques, drug synthesis, natural product isolation, physicochemical properties, separation techniques, etc. Seminars are part of the training program and it provides the opportunity to develop good communication and presentation skills. In the second year of their academic program, the students are allowed to carry out dissertations.

Department is enriched with various equipment’s required for UG Course and research. The department has conducive ambiance for study and research. The faculty of this department is encouraged and motivated to participate in National and International conferences /seminars and workshops. Besides faculty are actively involved in publishing research papers in National and International reputed journal of high impact value. The department provides adequate facilities to carry out research work.

The department is also very keen about the performance and moreover all the technical staffs are frequently imparted in-house training to enhance their performance and confidence.

The department gives emphasis on modification and simplification of various procedures to incorporate the practices of green chemistry in order to minimize the use of chemicals and avoid the hazardous effects. By and large, the department is making concerted efforts in pursuit of excellence and quality sustenance

Scope of the Program

Pharmaceutical Chemistry is a stimulating discipline which links many scientific disciplines and allows for collaboration with researchers from other disciplines like biologists, toxicologists, pharmacologists, theoretical chemists, microbiologists, and bio-pharmacists in developing new drugs. One can place herself in a competitive position by having a strong background in organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry.

Infrastructure and List of Instruments & Equipments

The Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry has state-of the-art facilities to cater the needs of the Pharmacy profession in designing novel new drug entities. The laboratories are designed and equipped with several advanced facilities including central ventilation system and very sophisticated fume hoods attached with vacuum and water supply. Emergency kits and fire extinguishers are provided in each laboratory with a special focus on the safety of the workforce. The laboratories are spacious and ventilated having adequate space to carry out experimental work smoothly. 

• FTIR spectrometer
• HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography)
• Rotary Evaporator
• Muffle Furnace
• Refrigerators
• Analytical Balances
• Melting point Apparatus
• Microwave oven
• Digital balance 10mg sensitivity
• Digital Balance (1mg sensitivity)
• Digital pH meter
• Distillation Unit
• Reflux flask and condenser single necked
• Reflux flask and condenser double / triple necked
• Arsenic Limit Test Apparatus
• Burettes
• Nesslers Cylinders
• Hot plates
• Mechanical Stirrers
• Magnetic Stirrers
• U V cabinet
• Borosilicate Glass Chromatography Column Plain with stopcock Bore

Skill Development in Pharmaceutical Chemistry Branch

• Synthetic organic chemistry skills
• Ability to purify drugs and intermediates
• Spectroscopic techniques
• Broad understanding of biological roles of drugs 
• Teamwork and interpersonal skills
• Good communication skills

A good imagination and persistence are the two important qualities a pharmaceutical chemist must possess. Since pharmaceutical chemists are team players in the drug discovery process, they must possess good written and verbal communication skills which are invaluable assets when interacting with scientists from other disciplines. The fact that their work helps to improve human health and reduce suffering is a strong motivating factor for chemists.

Core Competencies

• Molecular modelling based drug design
• Advanced organic synthesis
• Green synthesis
• In-vitrosafety studies
• Screening of drug candidates for antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic and anti-inflammatory studies.

Job Prospects in Pharmaceutical Chemistry

• Drug Discovery & Development (CADD)
• Organic & Medicinal Chemistry Division
• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Division
• Pharmaceutical Bulk Drug Division
• Pharmaceutical Analytical R & D