MSc Research Project module (BS53004)

The MSc Research Project gives you the chance to experience what it is like to be a research scientist.

You will be embedded within a host research group in either the Faculty of Life Sciences, the James Hutton Institute or the Faculty of Health. You will take part in lab meetings and the day-to-day life of the group.

Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, you will:

• design and execute experiments
• critically evaluate your results
• situate your findings within the broader scientific literature

Throughout this you will supported by postdoctoral researchers, PhD students and research assistants.

During the project you will develop a wide range of research skills. This will be alongside the independence, critical thinking and professional behaviours that characterise successful scientific careers.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• plan and execute laboratory experiments. This will be in order to investigate a current topic in biomedical and molecular sciences
• critically analyse your own data alongside the published literature, and formulate new hypotheses
• develop a wide range of advanced practical, analytical and professional research skills

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

• critically analyse published research and your own scientific data, and formulate new hypotheses
• show in-depth knowledge of research methodology and study design
• exhibit competence in advanced practical laboratory skills in your chosen area
• communicate complex scientific concepts and research data effectively in both writing and orally

Assignments / assessment

MSc project report (60%)

• ​Assessed independently by two academics

​Poster presentation (20%)

​Project performance (20%)

• ​Assessed by your supervisor, considering engagement, achievement and your laboratory notebook

Teaching methods / timetable

• Project supervision in the host laboratory. This will be done by the Principal Investigator. You will also be supported by postdoctoral staff, PhD students and research assistants
• ​Full integration into the host research group's lab meetings

​Projects are based at City Campus, Ninewells and the James Hutton Institute. There is a significant component of self-directed independent study.​