Chemistry Research Project

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2016:

Students should discuss total time commitment with their supervisor but as a guide, a student would be expected to be engaged in their research for an average of twenty-five hours per week over two semesters.

A major study (one half of a full-time year of study at third year level) in Chemistry.

Admission into the Bachelor of Science (Degree with Honours) program in the School of Chemistry.

Students must also be concurrently enrolled in (or have completed) the required coursework subjects for the Bachelor of Science (Degree with Honours) program in the School of Chemistry.

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

The research project is 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 enrol in a total of 62.5 points of research project across the duration of the Honours program. This is achieved by enrolling in a combination of the following subjects in appropriate semesters to achieve a total 62.5 credit points.

• CHEM40008 Chemistry Research Project

• CHEM40009 Chemistry Research Project

This subject (CHEM40008 Chemistry Research Project) is the 25 point version for one semester.

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

Assessment for the Chemistry Research Project is across two semesters:

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

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

• A major thesis, page limit of 30 pages, due at the end of the final semester (55%);

• An oral exam (viva) on the content of the thesis (35%);

• A project-related oral presentation (up to 30 minutes), given at the end of the final semester (10%);

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

These assessment requirements are applicable to the entire 62.5 point Research Project component.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

At the completion of this subject, students should have further developed skills in:

• advanced problem solving and critical thinking ,

• evaluating the relevant research and professional literature,

• applying concepts developed in one area to a different context,

• analysing and rationalising experimental observations,

• effective time management, and

• written and oral communication.