MPS5203 Experimental investigations: Learning from the lab

This unit gives you direct experience of contemporary laboratory-based research in pharmaceutical science.

You will be allocated to an active member of a research team who you will shadow for an intensive two-week period. During this time, you will observe and participate in a range of relevant activities that sample the gamut of skills required to be a successful laboratory researcher. These will include the planning, execution and analysis of experiments and other laboratory work, as well as the professional skills of record keeping and effective communication. To assist you with your learning in the laboratory, you will participate in a series of laboratory classes and workshops dealing with the modern pharmaceutical science research experience.

You will create a written and oral portfolio of your research experience, which will include a detailed laboratory journal, a comprehensive project outline, and a reflective seminar on your experience.

Upon completing the unit, you will have a working understanding of the factors that facilitate and challenge research progress, which you can use to critically guide their your professional behaviour, be it in a research environment or the broader workplace.