University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 10

ECTS credits : 5

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Available only to students on MRes in Neuroscience.

Planned timetable: n/a

An introductory module designed to provide an intensive introduction to designing and carrying out neuroscience research at the postgraduate level. Throughout the module, students will have opportunities learn transferable career skills that revolve around the process of proposing and evaluating scientific research. Students will critically analyse current primary literature in neuroscience and the methodology and ethical issues underlying research proposals. Students will self-direct their own learning and work in groups to formulate research proposals which they then orally present. In response to feedback, students finally submit a written assessment that critically evaluates published primary literature or grant proposals.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 20 hours of seminars and tutorials.

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%


Re-assessment: Resubmission of failed item(s) of coursework

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr S R Pulver
Module teaching staff: Team taught

Intended learning outcomes

• Develop a cohesive cohort of students studying neuroscience at the masters level
• Develop the ability to formulate research questions
• Enhance skills of critically analysing scientific literature
• Enhance scientific writing skills; developing a critical approach to writing
• Develop an understanding of how to propose research projects to funding bodies
• Develop an understanding of research paper production, submission and review