Chemistry Masters Research Project

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2011:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Objectives, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and the Disability Liaison Unit: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

The research project involves undertaking experimental and/or theoretical research in an area currently relevant to one of the research groups in the School of Chemistry. The subject will enable students to develop the process and practice of chemical research; increase the student's knowledge and understanding of chemical science; encourage the development of individual investigative skills, critical thought and the ability to evaluate information and to analyse experimental data; and ensure that students receive essential training in laboratory safety procedures.

Students enrolled in the Master of Science (Chemistry program) are required to complete a 125 point Research Project. Students may enrol in a combination of Research Project subjects as indicated below (each of which is available in the summer semester, semester one and semester two) over their two years of full-time study or over their four years of part-time study, to ensure they have completed a total of 125 points by the end of their course.

• CHEM90013 Chemistry Masters Research Project - 12.5 points
• CHEM90014 Chemistry Masters Research Project - 25.0 points
• CHEM90015 Chemistry Masters Research Project - 37.5 points
• CHEM90016 Chemistry Masters Research Project - 50.0 points

The objectives of this subject are to:

• develop the process and practice of chemical research;
• increase the student's knowledge and understanding of chemical science;
• encourage the development of individual investigative skills, critical thought and the ability to evaluate information and to analyse experimental data; and
• ensure that students receive essential training in laboratory safety procedures.

The assessment requirements below are applicable to the entire 125 point Research Project:

(1) Attendance at a safety & induction program with >65% result in a 45 minute safety examination held during the first week (pass/fail);

(2) A preliminary literature survey and research plan (1500 words, up to 5 pages), due at the end of the first semester (hurdle);

(3) A major thesis, page limit of 60 pages (20,000 words), due at the end of the fourth semester (55%); (4) An oral exam (viva) on the content of the thesis (35%);

(5) Two project-related oral presentations (up to 30 minutes each), given at the end of the second and fourth semesters (10%);

(6) Attendance at a seminar series providing advanced theoretical and/or practical training (hurdle).

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

At the completion of this subject, students should gain skills in:

• advanced problem solving and critical thinking;
• evaluation of research and professional literature;
• applying concepts developed in one area to a different context;
• analysing and rationalising experimental observations;
• effective time management;
• scientific written and oral communication.