Organic synthesis is integral to the process of drug development in the pharmaceutical industry. This course is designed to develop student understanding of key concepts of organic chemistry relevant to medicinal chemistry. Topics covered include, chemical reactivity, specificity and selectivity, how to plan and execute a synthesis, oxidation and reduction methods, organometallic reagents, olefin metathesis, radical and pericyclic reactions. Examples will highlight the application of synthetic chemistry to the assembly of complex molecules with biological activity of therapeutic interest. The course builds on an identified strength of the Australian National University in the field of Organic Synthesis.

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with later year undergraduate students but are assessed separately.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. recognise key chemical transformations used in the synthesis of biologically active molecules including oxidation and reduction, organometallic reactions, olefin metathesis, radical and pericyclic reactions
2. explain fundamental concepts associated with chemical transformations including reactivity, specificity and selectivity
3. work individually to evaluate, understand and describe real-world examples of the organic chemical synthesis of biologically active compounds and natural products
4. design a sequence of known and reliabe chemical transformations for the synthesis of organic compounds

Assessment will be based on:

• Two hour mid term exam including a component of literature-based review of synthetic chemistry (50%; LO 1,2,3,4)
• Two hour end of semester exam, including a component of literature-based review of synthetic chemistry (50%; LO 1, 2, 3, 4)

Approximately 32 one hour lectures and tutorials, with students expected to devote equivalent out-of-class time on the assignment and for private study

Students must have a Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent with a major in chemistry with relevant experience or honours. Applicants with the equivalent of a pass degree may be admitted if they have a high level of relevant academic achievement.