Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the branch of science that seeks to provide a deep understanding of the effects of drugs on the human body. Some topics explored include how medicines produce their effects on specific body systems such as the cardiovascular or central nervous systems, and how drugs act at the cellular and molecular level. How can we avoid their toxic effects? How does the body protect itself against drugs and other foreign chemicals? Why do many drugs work better in some patients than in others?

UWA graduates in Pharmacology have pursued a number of pathways including research in a hospital (diagnostic or research lab), employment in a pharmaceutical industry (research or commercial setting), clinical trials coordinators, state or federal regulatory agencies with oversight for drug use, science education (secondary or tertiary sector) and vocational study. As with most other biomedical disciplines, the prospects of satisfying employment are enhanced by completing an honours or higher degree.