Newcastle University

Aims

To develop the students’ ability to undertake scientific research in biomedical sciences. Students will carry out a laboratory project as part of the ongoing programme of research within a University Research Group.

Module Summary:
Students undertake a Masters level research project, based in an active research laboratory within the Faculty of Medical Sciences. Students will work part time during semester 1 and full time in semester 2, carrying out original research under the guidance of an academic supervisor. The module assessment consists of a project dissertation, an oral presentation and the supervisor’s assessment of professionalism and competence. The module allows students to gain first hand experience of laboratory research and to develop many skills including problem solving, data analysis, practical skills and communication of scientific information.

Outline Of Syllabus

Students undertake a Masters level research project, based in an active research laboratory within the Faculty of Medical Sciences. Project titles and abstracts are offered by academic supervisors, and students select a project in their area of interest. Projects are individual and unique, investigating a currently relevant research topic. Students will work part time during semester 1 and full time in semester 2, carrying out original research under the guidance of an academic supervisor. Students write up the results of their project in a project dissertation and make an oral presentation of their work at the end of the module. They are also assessed on their professionalism and competence with respect to their project work.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Students will divide their time between laboratory work, reading relevant literature, data analysis and writing, in consultation with their project supervisor. Laboratory work develops knowledge and understanding of research approaches and techniques, ability to devise and test hypotheses, practical laboratory skills and ability to work independently exercising personal responsibility and initiatve. Reading relevant literature develops information literacy skills and knowledge and understanding of background literature relating to research topic. Writing project dissertation and oral presentation develops competence in presentation of scientific information in written and oral format.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Written dissertation and oral presentation assess knowledge and understanding of background literature relating to research topic, written communication of scientific information, numeracy, knowledge and understanding of research approaches and techniques, computer literacy and ability to devise and test hypotheses. Supervisors assessment of professionalism and competence assesses Interpersonal communication, teamwork, planning and organisation, problems solving, initiative and adaptability.