This module will enable students to undertake a research project in a relevant advanced therapy stem cell/gene therapy application area. This will enable students to undertake a laboratory project and develop the necessary practical and experimental skills required for research. It will enable students to employ qualitative and quantitative methods in an area of stem cell/gene therapy and to prepare a written report where the data collected are presented, analysed, interpreted and critically analysed in light of current knowledge and understanding.

Projects will be proposed by the academic members of staff and students can select from the list. Should there be competition for projects, final project allocation will be determined following an interview with a panel of academics including the Programme Director, Module Lead and Project Supervisor, where the decision will be based on student knowledge and motivation for the project. Students will then work under the direction of an academic supervisor and may also be advised by an industrial colleague if appropriate. Students will be expected to further define and plan their project, focusing on research communication and planning.

On completion of this module, students will be able to:

Design experiments and research activities to explore a defined problem or research question
	Apply appropriate quantitative and/or qualitative methods and techniques of data capture and analysis
	Report and present research results in an appropriate manner
	Understand the practical aspects of operating engineering and laboratory equipment to generate robust data
	Understand how to operate safely and effectively in a laboratory environment including awareness of safety issues such as chemical and biochemical hazards and risks associated with different unit operations.
	Develop a methodology to collect data and produce results relevant to the solution of the defined problem
	Demonstrate advanced communication skills by: writing a report or manuscript in a simple, clear and accurate manner that incorporates all relevant information and is submitted on the specified deadline.