Introduction To Biomedical Research (BIOM40001)

This subject aims to prepare students for the processes and strategies at the core of modern biomedical research. Using self-directed learning strategies, students will be guided through a series of online modules to serve as preparation for their own research projects. Modules on ethical considerations in biomedical research, data integrity and legislation, will equip students to consider these in the context of their own research. Students will learn about the importance of accurate research records, data documentation, and effective reference management including the use of an electronic laboratory notebook and reference management software. Real-world examples will be used to introduce experimental design and core statistical techniques enabling students to plan experiments and analyse their own data. The students will further leverage resources developed by expert scientific communicators to aid in effective communication of their research, in both written and oral form, to a lay audience. The integration of a “Conversational Questions” assessment will additionally provide opportunity for students’ to critically appraise aspects of experimental design and data analysis along with the current state of literature in their chosen field of research. Collectively, the skills gained provide a foundational introduction to biomedical research preparing them for their research projects.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject students will be able to:

• Explain and provide rationale for experimental design, experimental implementation, data evaluation and communication in modern biomedical research, and discuss these concepts in an ethical context.
• Demonstrate competency in statistical analysis, hypothesis testing and data presentation.
• Identify and apply ethical conduct of animal and human experimental ethics, including regulatory requirements.
• Defend the need for the active management of intellectual property issues, scientific integrity and conflict of interest in a contemporary biomedical research context.
• Compare the scientific and technical bases of selected advanced techniques in biomedical research.

Generic skills

• Critical evaluation of data
• Critical evaluation of literature
• Statistical literacy
• Oral and written presentation
• Use of modern record keeping tools
• Library skills included data base searching and reference management software
• Introduction to Peer-to peer evaluation as a mechanism for enhancing work output.