Course Catalogue

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The student completes a laboratory-based project in a research group.]

Normally, full time for 14 to 16 weeks.

This course is only open to students on the MRes Biomedical Sciences postgraduate taught programme.

Students may only progress to the second project if they have met the requirements to progress beyond the Diploma stage (all taught components plus MRes Biomedical Sciences Project 1) at a level prescribed by the Regulations in force at the time.]

The student is assessed by the laboratory supervisor on their performance doing research; this contributes 30% of the mark. In addition, two independent members of staff judge the written report (35%) and the performance of the student during a 20-30 minute viva voce examination (35%).

Reassessments are normally available for all courses, except those which contribute to the Honours classification. For non Honours courses, students are offered reassessment in all or any of the components of assessment if the satisfactory (threshold) grade for the overall course is not achieved at the first attempt. This is normally grade D3 for undergraduate students and grade C3 for postgraduate students. Exceptionally it may not be possible to offer reassessment of some coursework items, in which case the mark achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade. Any such exceptions for this course are described below. 

Students cannot be re-assessed on their laboratory performance during the project.

The second project aims to allow students to advance their research experience and to provide a further opportunity to formulate a plan and complete a short research project, and to write a critical, evidence-based report of their work.] 

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

■ use research skills in advanced biomedical, biological, molecular or biotechnology techniques, as appropriate;

■ design, plan and safely execute significant laboratory experiments and analyse data;

■ produce high-quality research reports;

■ identify, synthesise, summarise and critically evaluate prior research findings in a specific area;

■ critically evaluate and analyse scientific data;

■ critically discuss original research findings in the context of existing knowledge;

■ identify areas where further research is necessary;

■ formulate and test hypotheses and solve problems through experimentation by defining scientific questions and addressing them critically;

■ give clear, well-constructed oral and written presentations on advanced topics in current biomedical research;

■ plan and manage time effectively by prioritising tasks and meeting deadlines;

■ work co-operatively with colleagues to develop interpersonal and teamwork skills.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.