Unit information: Research Project Execution for MSci in Biology in 2015/16

Unit name	Research Project Execution for MSci in Biology
Unit code	BIOLM0019
Credit points	60
Level of study	M/7
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24)
Unit director	Dr. Rands
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	BIOLMNEW12 - Research Project Planning for MSci in Biology/Zoology
Co-requisites	n/a
School/department	School of Biological Sciences
Faculty	Faculty of Life Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

Students conduct the research project in biology that they planned in detail for the unit MSci Research Project Planning, working closely within a research group, and putting into practice many of the transferable skills learned in Professional Development for Life Science. They may undertake the project as a placement outside the School of Biological Sciences, in which case they will work with two advisors: one outside the School and one academic within the school. Students collect data, conduct analysis, present the results for discussion, and learn to be part of a research group.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On completing this unit, students will be able to:

1. demonstrate the ability to conduct independent scientific research and 
collect valid data;
2. interpret and analyse scientific data;
3. summarise and present results appropriately;
4. interpret their findings within the context of current published research.

Teaching Information

Mostly independent research. Individual consultations with advisors. Students learn from each other and by being part of an active research group.

Assessment Information

Continuous assessment of performance (25%), 6000-word dissertation (40% from project supervisor, 30% from second marker), written in the style of a scientific paper for a chosen target journal. Flash-talk (2.5%) and poster (2.5%) to present a general overview of findings.

Reading and References

Reading is specific to each individual research project.