MSc in Green Chemistry & Sustainable Industrial Technology
University of York
There is increasing pressure from both society and Governments for chemistry-based industries to become more sustainable through development of Eco-friendly products and processes that both reduce waste and prevent toxic substances from entering the environment. The Chemical Industry is vitally important to the World economy; however its success has led to some environmental damage and low public perception. In order to prevent further environmental damage and to encourage more young people into the industry, the public acceptability needs to be raised by, amongst other things, adoption of cleaner processes. Industry is making progress, but it is frequently commented that new graduates are not adequately equipped with the tools, techniques, and 'culture' to ensure that they can rapidly make a positive impact on industry's increasing requirement for clean technology. Globally there is a growing requirement for cleaner processes, with many 'third-world' countries now insisting that licensed technology is the cleanest available. In order to ensure the future success of chemistry-based industries, it is vital to equip students with the requisite tools, knowledge and experience. This MSc in Green Chemistry and Sustainable Industrial Technology course is designed to fulfil this need.
This innovative course, which is run in collaboration with chemical, pharmaceutical and other companies as well as environmental organisations, will equip graduates with the necessary skills in green chemistry and green chemical technology for a career in research, process development, environmental and legal services, consultancy and government.
The start of the course includes modules on various aspects of clean technology and green chemistry delivered by York and external academic and industrial experts. Other modules cover advanced chemistry topics, supporting modules on commercialisation, intellectual property and business, as well as optional transferable skills modules on languages, IT, team building etc.
During the latter part of the course students will complete a research project to be carried out over a six-month period. Projects will be agreed between an industrial and an internal supervisor. The course is flexible enough to incorporate research projects being carried out solely in York or industry or in a combination of the two. Students currently employed by industry will be able to carry out their research project in the sponsoring company, but the project will be subject to the approval and supervision by an academic supervisor. In the last few academic years, projects have been undertaken with Infineum UK, BP, Botanix, C6 Solutions, Cytec, Marks & Spencer, GlaxoSmithKline, Syngenta, Unilever, Johnson Matthey and British Sugar.
Various studentships are available from industry and the University of York for 2008-2009 to assist home and overseas students. The course also accepts independently funded applicants. Studentships could be allocated at any time to suitably qualified candidates (the assessment will be based both on academic record, references and on the applicant's performance during an interview).
Staff of the University are prepared to advise any suitably qualified applicant for the course on how to obtain the appropriate grant, studentship or other means of financial support. There are usually several British students attending MSc courses who are self-financing. Overseas students have been supported by the British Council or by schemes largely or partially administered by the British Council. However, please note that bids to the British Council must be made in the year preceding the start of the course. The University of York can occasionally offer small scholarships to overseas students; details of these are sent out on request. The closing date for applications for scholarships for overseas students is May 1st.
The University of York is at the forefront in education and research in Green Chemistry. The main centre of activities is the Green Chemistry Centre (GCC), which was established in 1998. The GCC houses the world famous Green Chemistry Research Group which includes over 30 graduate and postdoctoral researchers working in collaboration with industry, commerce and governments on the development of environmentally friendly chemical products and processes. The Group has a research income of close to £1M per annum. Outstanding achievements in research have led to awards and honours from the Royal Society of Chemistry, the Society of Chemical Industry, the European Union and the Royal Society of Arts, Commerce and Manufacture, as well as features on TV and radio. The Group has excellent links with many other organisations around the World. There are several other research groups at York interested in aspects of Green Chemistry including catalysis, supported reagents, alternative solvents and sustainable development. The GCC also houses the Green Chemistry Network and Green Chemistry Centre for Industrial Collaboration providing links with many chemical and other companies.
