AP0626 - Advanced Instrumental and Structural Methods

What will I learn on this module?

You will learn about the theory, instrumentation, application and practice of a range of advanced analytical techniques for both quantitative determination and qualitative characterisation. These are key analytical tools utilised extensively in both research and industry. Topics will be chosen from the following:
- Liquid and gas chromatography
- Capillary and gel electrophoresis
- Mass spectrometry
- Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy
- Infrared spectroscopy
- Raman spectroscopy
- Multi-nuclear and multi dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
- Laser induced fluorescence spectroscopy
- Circular Dichroism
- X-ray absorption spectroscopy
- X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
- Scanning tunnelling microscopy and atomic force microscopy
- Computational spectroscopic methods
- Protein analysis
- Forensic and pharmaceutical drugs
- Volatile organic compounds
- Bioinorganic compounds
-Surfaces (imaging)
Analytical method development and validation as well as sampling protocols will also be studied.

How will I learn on this module?

You will learn through a mixture of lectures, seminars and ‘dry lab’ workshops, laboratory practicals, directed case studies and independent learning. Lectures to introduce the techniques will be allied to directed and independent study. Laboratory exercises will centre around a small number of case studies designed to illustrate the relevant techniques.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

All teaching materials will be available via the module eLearning Portal site. Further reading materials will be recommended and provided via the library electronic reading list. Academic staff will be accessible through the open-door policy to support your independent learning. Feedback (written and additional verbal on request) will be provided for all assessments. Past exam papers will be provided to assist your learning / revision process.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. You will be able to discuss and critically evaluate the principles and applications of the selected analytical techniques
2. You will be able to design and perform appropriate analytical procedures for quantification or characterisation.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. You will be able to apply theoretical knowledge to resolve qualitative and quantitative analytical problems.
4. You will be able to critically appraise experimental data from various analytical techniques.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. You will be aware of common issues related to chemical analysis in specific application fields.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed by two components:
- Component 1: Unseen written exam (1.5 hours 30%) (MLO 1, 3, 5)
- Component 2: Unseen written exam (1.5 hours 30%) (MLO 1, 3, 5)
- Component 3: Coursework (40%) containing sub-components: chromatography-based lab reports 20%); and one online m/c open book test on molecular spectroscopy (20%) (MLO 1-4)
Feedback:
All marked and annotated exam scripts and lab reports will be returned with tutor feedback following the internal moderation process. The online spectroscopy test will be via ESAF. Verbal feedback mentioned in sect above

Pre-requisite(s)

Analytical Methods (Level 5)

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

This option module will explore a variety of modern analytical techniques (e.g. chromatography and molecular spectroscopy) for both quantitative determination and qualitative characterisation. Various applications ranging from the analysis of drugs, proteins and volatile organic compounds to the study of bioinorganic compounds will be discussed. All topics will be taught by academics with research experience in the relevant fields. This module is assessed via three methods: laboratory reports involving one or more quantitative analytical techniques, an in-class test on molecular characterisation and two examinations lasting 1.5 hours each. It will provide a firm preparation for students interested in pursuing further study or employment in the area of analytical chemistry.

Course info

UCAS Code F110

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

School Geography and Natural Sciences

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

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Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

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Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

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The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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