Biotechnology Research Project

This subject is not offered in 2013.

Distribution of time between specific tasks will be decided in negotiation with the supervisor, but an overall weekly commitment of 10 hours per week is expected over 36 weeks.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, 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 Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject provides students with the opportunity to design and conduct independent research under supervision. Specific research projects will depend upon the availability of appropriate expertise, but may address a broad range of biotechnology issues.

Students will also develop skills in writing scientific reports and giving oral presentations.

After completing this subject students should have:

• discovered the challenge of research in biotechnology;
• a deeper knowledge of biotechnology;
• completed a substantial piece of research; and
• a sound preparation for future research in biotechnology.

Research proposal (500 words), end of week 11 (teaching week 3, semester 1): 10%
Presentation on findings to date (10 minutes), end of week 28: 10%
Thesis (10,000 words), end of week 42 (teaching week 12, semester 2): 80%

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Upon completion of this subject, students should gain the following generic skills:

• problem-solving skills including the ability to engage with unfamiliar problems, identify relevant solution strategies and conduct research;
• analytical skills through the ability to construct and express logical arguments and to work in abstract or general terms to increase the clarity and efficiency of analysis;
• presentation skills, both written and oral; and
• time management skills: the ability to meet regular deadlines while balancing competing commitments.