Course unit details:
Preclinical Study Design for Biomedical Research
| Unit code | BIOL31841 |
|---|---|
| Credit rating | 10 |
| Unit level | Level 3 |
| Teaching period(s) | Semester 1 |
| Offered by | School of Biological Sciences |
| Available as a free choice unit? | No |
Overview
Preclinical Study Design for Biomedical Research will present key topics at the forefront of modern medical and life sciences research, from both academic and industry perspectives. The unit will draw together legislation and ethics, 3Rs (replacement, reduction, refinement), experimental design, data handling and statistics, interpretation of animal research and its translation to clinical research for students who may wish to follow a career path in academia or industry.
Aims
The aim of this unit is to provide a thorough understanding of the use of animals in research, with students developing abilities in experimental design, data interpretation, experience in dealing with experimental problems, a realistic attitude to whole-animal research and an understanding of the basis of experimental variability.
PLEASE NOTE: This unit has restricted numbers and it may not be possible for students to be enrolled on this unit during the one-week course unit change period at the start of semester 1 (L) units.
Learning outcomes
• To recognise different aspects of normal research animal behaviour and how these can be modified by drugs.
• Develop an ability to design, analyse and interpret real experimental data.
• Understand strengths and limitations of animal models and how these translate to clinical research.
• Understand how to find, identify and interpret key data, concepts and ideas and to pass these on to others.
Employability skills
- Analytical skills
- Students are required to analyse statistically and represent graphically data generated in the workshop sessions.
- Group/team working
- Students will work in groups for some tasks and have individual responsibilities for group task outcomes.
- Innovation/creativity
- Students will be responsible for planning experiments and writing section(s) of a Home Office Project Licence.
- Oral communication
- Students will participate in and lead discussions on multiple topics related to animal research.
- Research
- Students will use the literature to extend knowledge and obtain a broad overview of the use of animals in research.
- Written communication
- Students will gain skills in writing research abstracts, paper critiques and section(s) of a Home Office Project Licence.
Assessment methods
Course work only:
- Experimental Design & peer review 20%
- Home Office Project Licence (Section) 40%
- Conference abstract and figures 40%
Feedback methods
Students will gain feedback in workshops and small group teaching sessions from different academic staff to gain a well-rounded view of animal research. They will also gain experience in giving peer feedback as well as receiving peer feedback. Written feedback on summative assessments will also be provided.
Recommended reading
Specified reading will be given on Blackboard and in workshops during the course.
Study hours
| Scheduled activity hours | |
|---|---|
| Practical classes & workshops | 18 |
| Independent study hours | |
|---|---|
| Independent study | 82 |
Teaching staff
| Staff member | Role |
|---|---|
| Gareth Morris | Unit coordinator |