Techniques that cover the full range of new and evolving technologies include: SEM, HPLC, FTIR, Raman Spectroscopy, GCMS, NMR spectroscopy, Patch clamp electrophysiology, Chlorophyll Fluorescence, IRGA, Porometry, Sonography, RF tracking,
Growth Analysis, Monoclonal antibodies, Flow cytometry, Next Generation Sequencing, GIS, modelling tools. It will not be possible to cover all of these in depth, but students need to be aware of how each tool could be used in their particular field of interest and as such there will be brief introductions to these techniques. The depth of understanding of a particular technique will come from the assessment.

A REPORT length 3000 WORDS weighted at 100%.

The assessment for this module is 100% coursework based on the presentation of a word processed report (3000 words) on a topic selected from the techniques introduced during the module and negotiated by the student and linked to current research practice. The report should not be an essay, but should encompass the ability to have subsections and appendices for additional material that would not be available in a traditional essay.

Assessing learning outcomes 1,2,3

Additional Assessment Details (including formative feedback / assessment):

Formative guidance will be provided throughout the module, mainly via tutor feedback and discussion with individual students at the end of each session as well as the VLE. Detailed written guidance and specific marking criteria for the above assessment will be given with the module handbook.

Contact Time (12 hours):
• Presentations and lecturers (12 hours)
Independent study (138 hours):
• Reading the lecture/workshop/tutorial presentation and making notes from reference sources before attending the lecture/workshop/tutorial (12 hours)
• Reviewing and reflecting on the lecture/workshop/tutorial, making additional notes post the session. (30 hours)
• Researching and making notes on issues that arise, extending your learning and preparing assessment materials (38 hours)
• Researching information linked to your chosen technique (40 hours)
• Preparing and writing the Report (18 hours)

Students are encouraged to focus on finding information on the techniques being investigated which may include technical manuals as well as primary literature and research reviews.

Successful completion of Level 6 MSci study

1) Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the role of a graduate analyst in biological research. (Knowledge and Understanding)
2) Display knowledge of the techniques used by graduate analysts and understand their use in research investigations. (Analysis, Enquiry)
3) Integrate current theoretical concepts with examples. (Application)