Course overview
This course is designed to develop the practical skills required for a successful career in scientific research or related activities. It provides advanced education and training in the principles of scientific research and the current state of knowledge and techniques used in the field of biomedical research. Students learn to search for and critically evaluate scientific literature relevant to their chosen discipline, to plan and design scientific experiments, and to develop advanced written and verbal communication skills. Each student is expected to carry out a laboratory based research project during the year. At the end of the year the project outcomes are to be written up as a thesis using a form similar to that required for publication of research data. Each student will be required to give a formal presentation of their research at the end of the year, followed by an oral defence of their findings and conclusions.
Course learning outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of basic research methodologies used in biomedical science research.
- Demonstrate an expert knowledge and insightful understanding of their chosen field of research.
- Develop an ability to evaluate research articles and research proposals, including critical analysis and interpretation of data, arguments and conclusions presented in the scientific literature.
- Demonstrate an appreciation of the current gaps in our understanding and the future areas for investigation in a particular area of research.
- Develop a capacity to identify and evaluate a problem and define the important elements required for its solution while appreciating the risks and benefits of alternate approaches.
- Develop an ability to effectively plan a research proposal in the field of biomedical research.
- Demonstrate mastery of the basic techniques required for the study of a research question.
- Develop a rigorous and methodical approach to the maintenance of records and the collection, storage and analysis of data.
- Demonstrate an awareness of ethical issues associated with their chosen field of research.
- Develop and demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate written and oral presentations to a scientific audience.
- Critically analyse and interpret data, arguments and conclusions presented in the scientific literature.