Drug discovery beyond carbon: The possibilities of the periodic table

This interactive masterclass explores how metals and inorganic chemistry are transforming modern medicine. Participants will learn about applications of elements across the periodic table in healthcare, from platinum-based cancer therapies to boron neutron capture therapy, and how inorganic approaches contribute to diagnostics and treatment innovation.

The session explains the scientific principles behind these advances and highlights current research directions in medicinal inorganic chemistry. The event is part of the University of Birmingham Masterclasses series and is aimed at GCSE and A Level students (Years 10-13).

It features talks from Dr James Coverdale and Dr Isolda Romero-CanelF3n from the School of Pharmacy. The masterclass runs on Wednesday 4 March 2026, 13:00-15:00 (UK) at the University of Birmingham and is designed to be interactive for school students considering STEM pathways.