Research Methods and Advances in Biomedical Research module (ME40006)

This module introduces you to the world of biomedical research. It also aims to be prepare you for future work in science, engineering, and healthcare innovation.

You'll explore how new technologies, tools, and ideas are developed and evaluated. You will look at this in areas such as biomedical engineering, imaging, and biotechnology. You’ll also learn how to assess the quality of evidence, apply statistics, and communicate your findings clearly and professionally.

The module connects the research process to real-world healthcare challenges. You'll take part in sessions on experimental design, research ethics, and the use of specialist software for data analysis.

You will also learn how to write technical documents. You will reflect on your learning, and build skills for academic and professional development.

Throughout the year, you’ll explore some of the University’s most active research areas. This will allow you to learn how to interpret and apply current developments.

You'll work both independently and in small groups. This is an opportunity to develop your communication and problem-solving skills. Hands-on tutorials and tasks will guide you through the research process. This will take you through planning to reporting. They will also supporting your career development.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• explore how biomedical engineering research connects to real-world clinical and technological problems
• learn how to design, critique, and interpret biomedical research
• apply statistical tools to analyse data and evaluate results
• gain experience using research software and technical writing tools
• develop communication skills through oral and written tasks
• build a personal and professional development plan for careers in research and healthcare

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

• analyse and critique published biomedical research with reference to methodology and evidence
• design and plan a basic research study using appropriate methods and ethical considerations
• apply statistical analysis and use software to interpret biomedical data
• present your findings clearly in writing and, where appropriate, through oral presentation
• reflect on your own skills and development using tools and techniques from academic and professional practice

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (30%)
  • This will assesses your career planning and technical writing. It also allows you to reflect on your academic and professional development
• exam (35%)
  • This will test your understanding of core research concepts. It will also cover experimental design and statistical analysis
• lab report (35%)
  • This will evaluates your ability to apply research methods, carry out data analysis, and communicate findings in a technical report

Teaching methods / timetable

• Lectures
  • These introduce key ideas in research methodology, biomedical research topics, and data analysis
• Tutorials and demonstrations
  • They will guide you through statistical techniques and software tools
• Seminars
  • You will explore professional development topics, including CV writing, technical communication, and career planning
• Group discussions
  • These support critical thinking, peer feedback, and collaborative learning
• Independent study
  • This will let you investigate topics in more depth and apply what you’ve learned to real tasks

You will also take part in hands-on activities and guided writing sessions to support your academic progress