Doctor of Biomedical Sciences

In this module, you'll prepare for doctoral-level research by developing the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to plan and design a substantial research project. You'll explore key aspects of the research process, including hypothesis development, experimental design, research statistics, scientific writing and project regulations. Through a programme of tutorials and specialist support, you'll learn how to define and investigate a well-structured research problem while considering research governance, ethics and health and safety requirements. The module also encourages reflective practice, helping you develop as an independent researcher and build confidence in research planning and methodology.

In this module, you'll develop the advanced research skills needed for postgraduate study and professional research practice. You'll explore the theory and practice of research governance, including health and safety, bioethics and project management, and examine how these shape responsible and effective research. You'll also develop a deeper understanding of scientific writing, publication and the peer review process. Topics may include risk assessment, research governance, scientific publishing, alternative models of peer review, and the history and practice of bioethics. The module provides opportunities to reflect on and strengthen your own research practice and professional development.

In this module, you'll develop the professional skills needed to support effective practice and career progression in biomedical sciences. You'll explore management strategies, reflective practice, workplace learning and professional communication, strengthening your ability to contribute confidently in research and professional settings. Topics may include personal and professional development, supervisory skills, quality assurance, current legislation, scientific writing, grant proposal development, publication writing, thesis preparation and communicating science to a range of audiences. You'll also develop presentation and leadership skills, learning how to evaluate and communicate your work effectively for peer review and professional practice.

This module supports the completion of a doctoral thesis as part of a doctoral programme of study. As a doctoral researcher, you'll undertake an extended programme of independent research in your chosen field, drawing on advanced subject knowledge and research expertise to make an original contribution to knowledge. The specific focus, research activities and outcomes will depend on your chosen area of study and doctoral programme. The module forms part of the thesis stage of doctoral-level study and research.

In this module, you'll further develop the research, scientific writing and communication skills needed to complete and defend original doctoral research in biomedical sciences. You'll build on earlier research development work by preparing an interim report that presents your research hypothesis, findings, statistical analyses and interpretation of results within the context of published literature. You'll also explore how to conduct systematic literature reviews, critically evaluate existing evidence, and communicate complex scientific ideas effectively. By the end of the module, you'll be able to discuss and defend your research, draw evidence-based conclusions, and demonstrate the contribution of your work to biomedical science practice.