Modules

Module 1: Target Identification, Validation and Preclinical Development (20 credits) This module will provide you with the technologies and approaches used to identify and validate drug targets through to candidate drug nomination. Providing a clear line of sight back from the patient to the target, you will learn the importance of consideration of the patient population when selecting the right target. Approaches to target validation will cover in vitro, ex-vivo and in vivo models. Different drug classes will be covered including small molecules and biologicals, and how this relates to the target and the patient population. Module 2: Current and Emerging Drugs in Key Therapeutic Areas (20 credits) This module will provide an understanding of what makes a successful drug. Taking a mechanistic approach the module will cover the key therapeutic areas and consider what are the pathways that have historically been considered targetable and what are the new therapeutic entities emerging. Through this mechanistic approach you will gain cross therapy area knowledge and an understanding of drug re-purposing Module 3: Rationale for Clinical Trials, Key Concepts and Features (20 credits) This module will provide you with a thorough understanding of why clinical trials have become so important in the evaluation of healthcare, social care and public health interventions. Whilst providing an overview of the different phases of clinical trials, the module will focus on the fundamental features of definitive randomised controlled trials. Key decisions surrounding the design of trials, such as methods of randomisation, blinding and sample size, will be explored. The module will also introduce key statistical concepts applicable to the design, analysis and interpretation of trials. By the end of the module you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognise when a clinical trial is needed and contribute to the design of a subsequent trial.