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Content:

This interactive module will introduce and develop research skills that are required in modern cell biological research, helping prepare students for the higher tariff laboratory-based research projects available in years three and four.ÌýThe first term involves lectures, online exercises, and workshops to develop skills in study and experiment design, bioinformatics, statistical analysis, research publication interpretation and peer review.ÌýThe second term builds towards practical sessions designed to develop laboratory skills used in cell biology research, such as cell culture and microscopy. These skills and techniques will be discussed, enhanced, and contextualised in accompanying lectures.ÌýEthics in research will also be considered throughout the module.

Please note that due to timetabling constraints, this module may involve practical sessions during reading week.

By the end of the module students will:

1. Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of, and be able to critically appraise and analyse research data;
2. Be able to apply appropriate statistical and bioinformatics techniques to research questions;
3. Understand how to frame and test a scientific hypothesis in a robust and ethical fashion;
4. Have gained basic practical laboratory skills that will support the acquisition of future new skills.

Both formative and summative assessments will be used to monitor and assess students’ progress through the module. Summative assessments include a review of a primary research paper, a lab book write-up of a practical experiment and a data analysis/comprehension exercise.

Aims of the Module:

This module aims to provide students with an introduction to quantitative research methods and to the types of skills necessary for the planning, data gathering and dissemination stages of Biosciences-related research.

Topics covered include:

• Research design
• Methods of data collection
• Approaches to analysing data (statistics and bioinformatics)
• Standards of evidence
• Fraud in scientific research
• Writing, interpreting and reviewing primary research papers.

Outcomes:

On successfully completing the module students will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of hypothesis formation and the ability to choose an appropriate research design for a given research question;
• Demonstrate an understanding of different methods of data analysis together with their strengths and weaknesses;
• Demonstrate understanding of ethical considerations which need addressing prior to, during and when analysing the results of experiments;
• Accurately analyse and critique existing research;
• Undertake independent practical study and analyse and critically reflect upon the processes involved.

Module Organizer: Dr Alexander Agrotis; Secondary Module Organizer: Prof. Julie Pitcher

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