1. Design, plan, and execute an independent research project using appropriate quantitative, qualitative, or computational methods to address complex questions.

Application & Problem Solving

2. Critically analyse and evaluate data, literature, and findings, and work effectively individually or as part of a team or multi-team project.

Critical Reasoning & Collaboration

3. Apply appropriate digital tools, bioinformatics, or data analysis software to manage, analyse, and visualise datasets or research outputs.

Digital Literacy

Research Skills

4. Present research findings clearly to scientific and non-specialist audiences, reflecting on personal learning and development to inform future professional practice

Communication

Reflection

Personal Development & Entrepreneurship

This module adheres to IBMS accreditation criteria for capstone research projects. Students may choose from the following project methodologies:

1. Big Data and Bioinformatics

Description: Utilize large, publicly available datasets or historical data from departmental research groups to address discipline-specific questions. Approaches include data mining, analysis, and visualization.

2. Computer Modelling or Simulations

Description: Investigate the physiological, pharmacological, or biochemical modulation of established models (e.g., tissues, organs, or whole systems). This can also involve validating the scientific accuracy and educational benefits of existing simulations.

3. Systematic Review with Quantitative Data-analysis

Description: Conduct a highly structured, pre-defined review of literature or data. Often team-based to reflect real-world research environments, these projects may include formal meta-analysis techniques.

4. Qualitative Research

Description: Focus on the in-depth analysis of non-quantitative data to identify patterns and themes. Examples include semi-structured interviews, ethical analyses, or structured reviews of internet content.

Note: Standard "literature reviews" are not permitted; projects must generate new knowledge.

5. Educational Development

Description: Create or repurpose educational resources and activities for undergraduate programs. The project involves evaluating the need for and effectiveness of the resource.

Note: This is a resource-output project, not a study of educational theory using human participants.

6. Team and Multi-team Based

Description: Replicates the collaborative nature of professional research. Students work in sub-teams with differing expertise (e.g., molecular vs. systems level) to contribute to a common goal or multi-format inquiry.

Students will be supported to independently develop, manage and present their research through collaboration with allocated academic supervisors.

2) For the viva assessment, students will be required to give an overview of the outcome of their study and discuss significant challenges and learning points encountered. The viva includes a reflective element, prompting students to assess their performance and to reflect on how their decision-making during the project and how this has shaped both their understanding and their scientific practice.

In this independent honours-level capstone module, you will design and deliver an independent research project using approaches such as laboratory experimentation, bioinformatics, computer modelling, systematic reviews, or educational resource development. Including:

Integrate your prior practical experience, knowledge, and critical understanding to demonstrate your development as a scientist.

Complete a major piece of independent work that serves as the culmination of your discipline-specific expertise and professionalism.

Conduct an in-depth study of a topic relevant to your practice, supported by a comprehensive review of current literature.

Design and execute a research project to test a hypothesis developed in collaboration with your supervisor.

Adhere to all ethical governance requirements and perform rigorous safety risk assessments for your planned activities

Ensure project suitability by focusing on the critical analysis of independently sourced information.

Generate and evaluate new data or perform advanced analysis on existing datasets and service delivery models.

Analyse the data using appropriate methodologies to draw evidence-based conclusions.

Ready to drive your own scientific discovery?

In this independent honours-level capstone module, you will design and deliver an independent research project using approaches such as laboratory experimentation, bioinformatics, computer modelling, systematic reviews, or educational resource development. You will develop practical skills in research design, data analysis, critical evaluation, and project management, working individually or in small teams. By completion, you will confidently handle complex datasets, apply digital tools, and communicate your findings clearly preparing you for future careers in research, healthcare, policy, or education.

Sessions will include supervisor meetings, workshop activities, discussions, groupwork, drop-in support sessions. There will also be laboratory practical sessions as appropriate for the project type.

Ahmed, N. et al. (2022) Biomedical science practice: experimental and professional skills. 3rd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Reed et al. (2022) Practical Skills in Biomolecular Science. 6th edn. Harlow: Pearson Education.

Suitable rooming for group work and discussion

Scientific laboratory for practical block

IT suite space with access to PCs