Research Project

Please note

This document only provides information for the academic year selected and does not form part of the student contract

School:

School of Applied Sciences

Credit Rating:

Level (including FHEQ):

H (FHEQ Level 6)

Graded or Non Graded:

Graded

Version Valid From:

2022-09-01

Module Leader:

Duncan Gill

Version Number

2022.01

Learning Methods

Guided Independent Study

Practical Classes and Demonstrations

Shared Teaching

Synopsis

A chemically-based independent research programme. Supervisors will outline the aims of the project and direct students to the most recent literature. Before undertaking experimentation, students will be expected to undertake a comprehensive review of the literature related to their project and to evaluate this literature. The students will plan their projects in light of the current state of the field of research. They will be given some advice on research methods but will be expected to lead the planning themselves. The projects will show depth and will involve advanced laboratory and instrumental techniques. They will be open ended and students will be expected to review progress regularly and modify research plans accordingly. At the end of the project, students will be required to write a thesis, and present the results of their project in a talk.

Learning Strategy

Students will work closely with Post docs, PhD students and research active staff to carry out projects at the forefront of research. This will help prepare them for future careers in research.

Outline Syllabus

Students will be offered projects related to the research of the academic staff and/or of local industry. The range of projects offered will encompass each of the disciplines available as part of the general chemistry course and will include those present in option modules.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will

be able know how to complete COSHH and Risk assessments.

know the procedures used in developing and undertaking an experimental programme.

understand how to interpret results and how to design new experimentation based on earlier results.

appreciate the context of the project and significance of the results in terms of current literature.

be to present a critical literature survey, demonstrating familiarity with the field.

be able to apply advanced practical techniques in the performance of independent work devised to test a hypothesis.

be able to interpret data and be able to comment on results.

be able to devise experiments to test hypotheses.

be able to keep a digital/laboratory notebook of the work undertaken.

10.

be able to evaluate the risks involved in undertaking experimental work in a safe manner.

11.

be able to disseminate their research findings in the format of a scientific paper.

12.

be able to present a short talk and answer questions on the research undertaken.

Formative Assessment

Assessment 1: Project work

Summative Assessment

Assessment 1: Project Work

Assessment 2: Written Assignment

Assessment 3: Written Assignment

Assessment 4: Presentation

Assessment Criteria

Students should demonstrate a high level of practical competence, showing a thorough understanding of the techniques and procedures used through the research. They will be expected to critically review the background and current literature related to the project and show a systematic understanding of relevant knowledge at the forefront of their chosen field. They should be able to critically interpret complex experimental results and draw appropriate conclusions in the light of current knowledge. They should show excellent communication skills in disseminating their research findings in a mature and knowledgeable way, consistent with the advanced level of the project itself, in their oral presentation as well as in their final thesis. They are expected to use the outcome of their research to make sensible proposals and new hypotheses that might form the basis for further investigation.

Course and Module Catalogue