Polymer Science and Technology

Course duration: Full-time, 1 year. Part-time, 2-3 years

Location: Wrexham

Start month: September and February

Play an integral role in developing future uses for polymers in industry and everyday life.

This MRes course provides specialist knowledge and understanding of the physical chemistry, processing and industrial applications of macromolecular systems, together with the development of generic skills in research project management. Polymeric materials are used in a diverse range of industrial, consumer and biomedical products and these aspects are reflected in the course.

Originality in problem solving is fostered through consideration of numerous industrial case studies, lectures from industrial speakers and the option to undertake an industry sponsored research project. The research at Glyndw? r University in this area has particular strengths in polysaccharides and hydrocolloids, reactive processing and polymerisation process development, experimental rheology and industrial applications of water soluble polymers. The overall approach is multidisciplinary and covers emerging areas such as polymers from renewable resources and soft nanotechnology.

Key Facts

• Excellent employment opportunities globally in a wide range of key industrial sectors - including biomedical, pharmaceuticals, renewables and soft nanotechnology
• High levels of industrial exposure through case studies, industrial lectures and industrially sponsored research projects
• State-of-the-art polymer characterisation and processing facilities - polymer fractionation, light scattering, shear and extensional rheometry, thermal analysis, extrusion, injection moulding
• This is an excellent 'discipline hopping' route to doctoral study in a polymer related field
• Supportive learning environment based in established research teams and student centered approach to training and assessment

Career Opportunities

The course provides excellent career opportunities across a wide range of industrial sectors. Graduates can expect to obtain a research and development position in areas related to biomedical devices, pharmaceutical formulation, food and beverages, petroleum recovery, agrochemicals, functional polymers/speciality chemicals, inks, paints and coatings or cosmetics and personal care products.

The course also provides a direct route to doctoral study, for those wishing to undertake further research training or pursue an academic career.

Course Content

• Analytical
• Methods II
• Analytical Methods III
• MRes Research Project and Dissertation

Specialist modules

• Chemistry and Technology of Water Soluble Polymers
• Rheology and Processing of Macromolecular Systems

Entry Requirements

A good first degree in the physical sciences, materials science, chemical engineering or a related discipline or equivalent experience in a polymer related industry.

Assessment

Analytical Methods are assessed through open book problem solving exercises and a formal unseen examination.

Specialist modules are assessed through negotiated assessment tailored to the specific needs of the student, which is set out in a learning contract. Indicative assessments include a critical review of module related literature, laboratory based practical work (polymer synthesis, processing or instrumental analysis), poster presentations and oral presentations.

The research project is examined wholly through a viva voce examination in the presence of an internal and external examiner.

Find out more

For more information about this course, please click here.

Alternatively, you can telephone 01978 293439 or email SID@glyndwr.ac.uk