58吃瓜

BL5412 Advanced Current Research Topics

Academic year

2026 to 2027 Full Year

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

30

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 11

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Availability restrictions

Restricted to students taking the Integrated Masters programmes within the School of Biology (MBiol, MMarineBiol and MBiochem)

Planned timetable

To be confirmed

This information is given as indicative. Timetable may change at short notice depending on room availability.

Module coordinator

Dr S M R Gurney

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module Staff

Dr S Gurney

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module description

This module will introduce students to current research topics within the field of Biology through attendance at research lectures delivered by scientists from the University of St鈥疉ndrews and external institutions. Students will engage with current primary literature, discuss the research presented, and critically evaluate the methodologies, data, and conclusions. Students will also present and analyse their own research data from previous and ongoing projects. Through peer discussion and reflection, they will develop their skills in interpreting results, assessing scientific evidence, and communicating research effectively.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisites

BEFORE TAKING THIS MODULE YOU MUST PASS BL4603 AND PASS BL5500

Anti-requisites

YOU CANNOT TAKE THIS MODULE IF YOU TAKE BL4203

Assessment pattern

Coursework = 100%

Re-assessment

Coursework = 100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

Over the course of the year, each semester you will attend 1 lecture (x8), 1 seminar (x8)

Intended learning outcomes

  • Communicate complex scientific concepts effectively to a specialist audience of biologists.
  • Evaluate peer research presentations and provide constructive feedback.
  • Critically evaluate current topics in research, including research questions and methodologies.
  • Reflect critically on their engagement with the seminars and how science was communicated through reading, presentation and discussion.
  • Analyse and critically interpret scientific data and communication.
  • Synthesise scientific, logistical, and communication considerations to design a coherent proposal for hosting an invited research speaker