Keele Badge

LSC-30104 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2025/26 Last Updated: 04 December 2025

LSC-30104 - Models in Neuroscience Research
Coordinator: Muriel Desbois
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 6
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734414

Programme/Approved Electives for 2025/26

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

No

Description for 2025/26

In this module, you will learn how cultured cells and animal models are used in research to study different neuroscience topics. Lecturers will use their own research interests and research models to demonstrate their use. You will learn the advantages and limitations of several model systems, their ethical considerations, and how to use this knowledge to investigate neurobiological questions.
Through lectures and tutorials using a journal club approach, you will learn to identify appropriate model systems for various experiments and critically evaluate research articles that use cell cultures and animal models.

Aims
This module aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of animal models used in neuroscience research. By learning the advantages, limitations, and ethical considerations associated with these models, students will understand the approaches used for neurobiology research.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Evaluate the advantages and limitations of model systems used to study neuroscience: 1,2
Apply knowledge of model systems to neurobiological investigations.: 2
Discuss the ethical considerations of different model systems in neuroscience research: 1,2

Study hours

Active learning:
10 x 1 hour lectures introducing model systems and research topics
10 x 2 hour tutorials to discuss and critique select research articles and support developing final assessment.
10 x 5 hours preparation for tutorials (engagement with directed reading and other tutorial materials).
Independent study:
40 hours of wider independent study around module topics
30 hours preparation of final assessment

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Essay-Plan weighted 25%
Summary plan of neuroscience model systems pros and cons (500 words)
This first assessment will help students engage with a research question and start critically thinking about the use of animal models in neuroscience research. This will serve as a foundation for the second assessment. Students will develop a structured plan that outlines their approach to the final essay. They will briefly interpret the provided research question, identify and justify the selection of the models discussed in the first part of the module, and provide a preliminary evaluation of each model’s application, strengths, and limitations. The proposal will also include initial thoughts on ethical considerations and present a short annotated bibliography of key academic sources. The structured plan will be 500 words.

2: Essay weighted 75%
1,500 word discussion of neuroscience model systems
A research question will be set and given to students to answer. Students will be required to critically evaluate and discuss the use of at least four relevant models which can be used to answer that question. The essay should include a discussion of each model’s application, strengths, and limitations, as well as the ethical implications of using those models. Additionally, students must propose suitable experimental approaches for each model to effectively address the research question. Arguments and proposals must be supported by appropriate academic literature. The essay will have a word count of 1500 words.

The University undertakes a continuous review of its teaching and research provision to ensure programmes are of a high quality and changes may be made to modules where it is necessary and reasonable to do so. Please be aware that minor changes to modules, such as a change to an individual assessment, can occur up until enrolment, although we endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes. Details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/legalgovernancecompliance/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/studenttermsconditions/

Last Updated: 04 December 2025