Life Sciences Fourth Year Project

Code

LIFE4108

School

Life Sciences

Level

4

Credits

60

Semesters

Full Year UK

Summary

The project is a year-long module. Preparatory work (familiarisation with laboratory/field safety protocols etc.) will occur in autumn, with the bulk of practical work in spring. The topic of the project will be chosen from a list of suggestions relevant to the degree subject, and will be finalised after consultation with a member of staff, who will act as a supervisor. The project involves an extensive piece of detailed research on the topic chosen after discussion with the supervisor. The practical component will involve collection of data from a laboratory or field investigation and appropriate analysis. The findings will be interpreted in the context of previous work, and written-up in a clear and concise final report in the form of a research paper manuscript or end-of-grant report. The main findings will also be delivered in an assessed oral presentation and discussed with two assessors in a viva voce.

Target Students

4th year MSci students within the School of Life Sciences or on the Natural Sciences degrees. Only available to year 4 students.

Classes

This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc

Assessment

• 70% Coursework 1: 7,000-word manuscript or end-of-grant report
• 10% Oral: 15 minute oral research presentation
• 10% Viva voce: 30 minute viva voce
• 10% Lab Performance: Supervisor Lab Performance mark

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

The project will allow students to extend their knowledge and understanding of one or more aspects of the biological sciences by carrying out research and relating their findings to those of others in the field. (A1, A2, A4; some but not necessarily all of: A5, A6, A7, A8, A9, A10) 

Cognitive skills will be enhanced by developing further the ability to: 

• analyse critically and interpret published information and data (B1)

• think independently while giving due weight to the arguments of others (B2)

• understand complex ideas and relate them to specific problems or questions (B3)

• acquire substantial quantities of information systematically, process it effectively, and draw appropriate conclusions (B4)

• make and record accurate observations and measurements (B5)

A range of practical skills will be developed including: 

• the ability to carry out scientific research and evaluate and make use of the material so acquired (C1)

• write and construct scientific documents (e.g. research reports) using appropriate styles, conventions, and terminology (C2)

and most but not necessarily all of the ability to: 

• work safely in the laboratory and assess related safety issues (C3)

• undertake appropriate experimental design and statistical analysis (C4)

• undertake practical experimental work using appropriate equipment and instruments (C5)

undertake practical experimental work using appropriate equipment and instruments (C6)

The project will develop transferable/key skills including the ability to: 

• communicate effectively in writing (D2)

• communicate effectively by oral presentation (D3)

• organise and manage working time, schedule tasks, and meet deadlines (D4)

• use and access information and communication technology (D5)

• reflect upon and assess own progress, strengths and weaknesses (D6) 

• manage and manipulate numerical data (D7)

Conveners

• Dr Alistair Hume
• Dr Matthias Brock