BTEC9100A Biotechnology Research Project (13.5/22.5 units)

This topic is taught and assessed as a continuum.

This topic comprises a major research project in which the student is required to engage in individually supervised research, presenting results in the form of a postgraduate level thesis and seminar presentations. It is expected that this work will be conducted in the research laboratories in the College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, or in conjunction with other suitable laboratories for which relevant and adequate facilities and immediate supervision exists, either in academia, research institutes or industry. All areas of contemporary biotechnology are open, with the research including any bioscience activity which is either fundamental in nature, or more applied, and having distinct economic or social objectives.

This topic aims to:

• Provide students the opportunity to spend two semesters working on a research project in a specialised area of biotechnology. This develops graduate skills by demonstrating ability to work in a research environment to solve complex problems for the economic and social benefit of society
• Provide experience in experimental design, critical analysis of scientific data management, advanced technical skills, and use of state-of the art equipment
• Provide students the opportunity to write a graduate thesis and present oral presentations at a professional level

The skills and experience gained in the topic should enable the Masters graduates to function in an interdisciplinary, global, research intensive biotechnology industry.

1. Successfully carry out a postgraduate level research project in a specialised area of biotechnology
2. Demonstrate the ability to work in a research environment in an independent manner
3. Demonstrate the ability to carry out experimental design, critical analysis of scientific data, project management, advanced technical skills, and use of state-of the art equipment
4. Prepare a postgraduate level thesis and deliver professional oral presentations