DISS09002 2023 Biopharmaceutical Dissertation

Articulate and elaborate an understanding of current thinking on the nature of bioprocessing challenges and the value of related research in that context, whilst showing awareness of the ethical dimensions.

Manage a research project combining independent study, support sessions and supervision effectively.

Write a coherent research proposal with an acceptable research question or hypothesis and conduct a critically focused literature review.

Analyse data according to accepted models of analysis, showing awareness of alternative models of analysis and theoretical frameworks. Sustain from the evidence obtained, a reasoned argument and draw consistent and coherent conclusions from the research evidence

Reflect self-critically on the significance of the outcomes/conclusions of the enquiry and on the research process itself.

Write a dissertation which meets postgraduate standards of technical expertise investigating the subject area or testing the hypothesis outlined in the research proposal.

The thesis is an independent research project that will involve self‑directed learning. This is a learner‑centered approach, where the learner will assume the responsibility for learning. Students will manage their time effectively to ensure that they maintain contact with their supervisor while also completing their project work. Regular meetings with their supervisor will engage the student in discussion which will deepen their learning and motivation (Noting an average of 1hr per week indicative availability of academic supervisor to student). These meetings will help the students to maintain focus and challenge them on hypothesis and approaches to their experimental design and implementation. Critical thinking skills will be developed through analysis of research data and the presentation of research outcomes in the format of thesis, presentation and viva. 

Assessment Strategies:

A dissertation of circa 15-20 thousand words (maximum 20,000 words)  must be successfully completed for award of the M.Sc. Ongoing assessment throughout compilation of dissertation will be via assessment of project plan, project log, presentations, final report and viva.

The following statements describe generally the threshold level of competence for successful completion of the M.Sc dissertation and assessment shall be based on these criteria:

·      Knowledge base extends to a systematic understanding and critical awareness of topics which are informed by the forefront of the discipline.

·      Problems of an unfamiliar nature are tackled with appropriate methodology and taking into account the possible absence of complete data.

·      Experimental work is carried out independently and with some originality.

·      Substantial research project at the forefront of the discipline is completed effectively.

·      Generic skills are developed appropriately for professional practice.

as per Q manual

A dissertation of circa 15-20 thousand words (mac 20,000 words)  must be successfully completed for award of the M.Sc.

Outline of Stages in Process:

Agreement of project title/plan between supervisor and student.

Submission of project plan with Gant chart to supervisor.

Manage project (report, analysis and conclusions) combining independent study with support from supervisor.

Submission of dissertation (circa 15,000-20,000 words).

The bound dissertation is dual graded by the internal supervisor and another examiner.

Viva examination by internal /or external examiners.