MSc Clinical Embryology & IVF Research module (GM50032)

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) is the treatment of infertility. It does this by manipulating egg, sperm, and embryos.

Success rates in ART have more than tripled over the past 30 years, mainly due to research. Research provides an improved understanding of the basic science and translational medical research.

To work in this fast moving field, it's important you're able to analyse relevant research and apply this to your practice.

In this module you will plan, carry out and complete a research project. You'll choose a research topic that interests you. It should address an important research question in clinical embryology and assisted conception.

This will build on the knowledge and skills you've acquired in previous modules.

Projects can include a variety of approaches, including:

• systematic review of the literature
• analysis of a dataset
• business plan
• service evaluation
• patient questionnaire
• application for ethical approval
• developing patient information.

Many of the projects will come with clinical data. This could be from the Assisted Conception Unit or laboratory data. It could also be from relevant University of Dundee research facilities. In some cases, there could be the opportunity to get data from your host University.

What you will learn

In this module, you will learn about:

• reviewing and appraising the literature relevant to your project
• project planning
• different approaches to conducting research and the need for ethical and Caldicott approval
• applying your knowledge of statistics to analyse your research data
• developing your writing and poster presentation skills
• applying your learning to improving future research/ART services.

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

• understand the knowledge and skills needed for a career in scientific research
• review literature in the field of reproductive medicine and apply this to your future career
• understand the core scientific principles in reproductive medicine relevant to your research
• apply relevant statistics to your research data
• present a written research project and poster presentation
• show the key skills needed for academic practice
• communicate and discuss with peers and more senior colleagues.

Assignments / assessment

• project proposal (30%)
• research dissertation/thesis (50%)
• poster presentation and Q&A (20%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

You'll work on your project under the supervision of experienced, well-established researchers.

Teaching methods include:

• supervision meetings
• recorded lectures
• tutorials and workshops
• interactive journal clubs
• discussion boards