BNS2082 - Introductory research in behavioural neuroscience

Leader: Dr Dianne Sheppard

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit provides an opportunity for high-achieving students to work with an academic supervisor toward the completion of a research project in the neurosciences. The research project will be chosen by the student from a list of potential projects available at the beginning of semester. The unit convenor and supervisor must approve the project topic at the time of enrolment. Students will undertake their research project within a research laboratory and will be required to obtain data, complete a written preliminary and final report and will give a series of oral presentations on their work.

Objectives

On the completion of this unit, students will have acquired the following skills and attributes:

1. Review scientific literature in a neuroscience-related area including the ability to identify key information in this area;
2. Access databases for provision of information;
3. Presentation of oral reports;
4. Construction of written reports;
5. Manage workloads to meet deadlines;
6. Work with a significant degree of independence;
7. Plan a substantial project, including the ability to adjust planning as events and results dictate;
8. Conduct appropriate statistical analysis of results;
9. Perform routine laboratory measurements and manipulations;
10. Maintain efficient and meaningful communication with a project supervisor; and
11. Gain experience in the use of technical word processing packages and graphics software.

Assessment

Oral presentation (20 minutes): 15%
Literature review (2000 words): 25%
Final Research report (4000 words): 60%
Hurdle requirement: Acquisition of satisfactory laboratory skills and laboratory attendance.

Prerequisites

BMS1011, BMS1021, BMS1052, BMS1062, BNS1072, PSY1011, PSY1022 and PSY2051