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SL40091: Advances in biosciences (BB40260)

[Page last updated: 26 October 2023]

Academic Year: 2023/24
Owning Department/School: Department of Life Sciences
Credits: 12 [equivalent to 24 CATS credits]
Notional Study Hours: 240
Level: Masters UG & PG (FHEQ level 7)
Period:
Academic Year
Assessment Summary: CWES 100%
Assessment Detail:
  • 1000-word News & Views article with original graphical abstract (CWES 30%)
  • Present a critical evaluation of a research paper (CWES 30%)
  • Write 800-word reviews of research 'manuscripts' (CWES 40%)
Supplementary Assessment:
Like-for-like reassessment (where allowed by programme regulations)
Requisites: Before taking this module you must take BB30259 OR take SL30077
Learning Outcomes: After completing this unit, students should be able to: 
  • Critically appraise current research and/or new insights at the forefront of research in either modern biochemistry, biomedical or biological sciences
  • Synthesise and summarise information critically from a variety of academic and technical sources
  • Construct original perspectives by analysing relevant scientific literature
  • Disseminate information effectively using appropriate communication methods
  • Exercise autonomy and self-direction in independent working throughout your studies



Aims: The unit aims to prepare students for advanced level research in areas relating to either modern biochemistry, biomedical sciences or biological sciences, and equip them with the skills required for key research positions in the biosciences.

Skills: Scientific writing (F, A), Independent working (F).

Content:

The unit will run in a Journal Club format. Students will be given or choose primary scientific papers at the forefront of research and write and present a critical evaluation of these papers.

Students will also act as 'reviewers' for mock 'manuscripts' of a given journal, and write a critical evaluation of the scientific findings of the manuscripts.

Students will provide a 1000-word 'News & Views' article for an accompanying research paper, along with an original 'Graphical Abstract' which summarises the key findings of the paper.



Course availability:

SL40091 is Compulsory on the following courses:

Department of Life Sciences

Notes:

  • This unit catalogue is applicable for the 2023/24 academic year only. Students continuing their studies into 2024/25 and beyond should not assume that this unit will be available in future years in the format displayed here for 2023/24.
  • Courses and units are subject to change in accordance with normal University procedures.
  • Availability of units will be subject to constraints such as staff availability, minimum and maximum group sizes, and timetabling factors as well as a student's ability to meet any pre-requisite rules.
  • Find out more about these and other important University terms and conditions here.