Description

The generation, dissemination and interpretation of data represent the foundations of scientific research. Consequently, communicating our own data and ideas, as well as interpreting and critiquing the data of others are key skills and an absolute requirement for a scientific career The module consists of three parts: basic statistics for research, practical research/laboratory skills and data interpretation. The first part of the module (statistics) will be delivered through the combination of online material followed by a hands-on computing workshop. In the 2nd part of the module students will develop and refine the skills necessary to read, interpret and critique scientific papers. This will be achieved through weekly journal club sessions, which will involve active participation in a group discussion focusing on data presentation, analysis, conclusions, and implications of a recent high impact publication. The sessions will illustrate that published research often represents only the beginning of the story and that studies usually generate many more intriguing questions requiring further investigation. Furthermore, this regular scientific discourse with peers will provide an opportunity to develop communication skills. In addition, students will develop good awareness of experimental approaches and relevant techniques.

 

Aims

To provide good understanding of essential statistical techniques
	To provide understanding and interpretation of statistical results in publications and in your own research projects
	To provide basic laboratory research skills appropriate in immunology research
	To develop and refine the skills necessary to read, interpret and critique scientific papers
Learning outcomes

The students will be able to:

Choose and perform appropriate statistical analyses of the data (published/ generated)
	Understand basic laboratory techniques
	Identify how new knowledge can be advanced by new techniques and compare and contrast essential experimental tools and approaches
	Interpret and critique scientific papers and evaluate novel findings in the context of current understanding