The aim of this module is to provide students an opportunity to receive appropriate training and complete the first phase of their research project proposed in BIO404 under the supervision of qualified academic staff in XJTLU. Part-time students are usually supervised by a member of XJTLU academic staff (as the primary supervisor) and a designated industrial supervisor (as a co-supervisor). They must carefully prepare their research plans under the guidance of both supervisors, submit at the time of application, and obtain approval by the Programme Director before they formally enrolinto the Master’s programme.
A. Demonstrate a critical understanding of relevant scientific literature and techniques applicable to the research project. B. Plan a scientific research to formulate, evaluate or criticize a hypothesis and challenge or defend the hypothesis. C. Understand, consider, and apply research ethics and health and safety regulations to effectively prioritize, arrange, and organize research work. D. Write and defend a preliminary report that includes the relevant background information, the hypothesis to be tested (if applicable), a detailed plan of work, an anticipated timetable, and preliminary results (if applicable). E. Develop and deliver a formal oral presentation of a preliminary research project to scientific audience.
Full-time students will choose a research project with a nominated supervisor at the end of semester 1. Part-time students will conduct research at their designated location and as agreed at the time of enrollment. Assessors for both full-time and part-time students will be appointed to provide appropriate support and to appraise the preliminary report and record book. At a designated time (typically two months) after starting the research project, students will be required to write and defend a preliminary report describing the relevant background information, the hypothesis to be tested (where relevant), a plan of work and an anticipated timetable. The module includes tutorials to guide students on conducting a literature survey, and on making presentations, report writing, lab safety, and project management. Students can draft their preliminary report and obtain feedback from their supervisor(s) before submission. Two internal examiners will be appointed to conduct a Viva with the student. Additional technical training in Linux system operation, bioinformatics tool usage, and database management, will be provided by supervisors, technicians, or experienced PhD students, as needed.