In the first two years of the course, students have developed a range of technical and analytical skills by following established protocols in large laboratory classes. In the final year project, students will get a taste of what it is like to work in a real research environment by working on their own specific research topic under the supervision of a member of academic staff from the School of Life Sciences or the Institute for Science and Technology in Medicine (ISTM). The topics are set by the supervisors and are designed to allow the students to expand their portfolio of technical expertise and to apply that expertise to investigate a research question. The very varied list of topics reflects the diversity of research interests within the School and ISTM. Students will be expected to spend the equivalent of 2 days per week, which may be spread over several days working in the laboratory during semester 1. In semester 2 they will write a report where they present and interpret the results of their experiments and place them in context with existing literature in the field.
plan and safely execute a series of small experiments or surveys to investigate a research question will be achieved by assessments: 01,02
demonstrate technical competence in at least two new scientific techniques will be achieved by assessments: 01
analyse and critically discuss the results of a series of experiments will be achieved by assessments: 01,02
produce a substantial, critical scientific report, including the presentation of data in appropriate graphical formats
will be achieved by assessments: 02
150 preparation of project report
Assessment of the technical competence, general diligence and engagement with the project, level of assistance needed etc
A 9000 word report comprising a review of the background literature, a detailed methodology section and presentation, interpretation and in-depth discussion of the research findings.
This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.