Research Skills 3B module (BS32041)

This module develops your research skills in the biological sciences field. It introduces you to research approaches and methods, both experimental and bioinformatic.

You'll build on what you have already learned, including from Research Skills 3A. This helps prepare you to undertake your research project in the final year of your degree. It also helps you develop the skills necessary for a career in the Life Sciences.

What you will learn

In this module, you will learn about:

• research methods
• experimental approaches for biological science research
• assessing experiment results
• record keeping in biological science
• health and safety for working in lab.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• explain the principles behind experimental approaches in biological science
• assess the quality of evidence coming from an experimental result
• plan and carry out a piece of independent research work that is hypothesis-driven
• show your skills in record keeping, appropriate for biological science
• show you understand safety standards, hazards and risks associated with experimental work
• apply safe working practice in a lab
• interpret and present experimental results in a scientific format
• integrate informatics resources in the analysis of experimental data.

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (project report) (80%)
• laboratory book (20%)

This module does not have a final exam. 

Teaching methods / timetable

• practical lab work (independent and tutor-led)
• lectures
• workshops
• tutorials
• self-directed study