This research project module is available only to Infection and Immunity students. Two options are available.

1. Laboratory based project: this project aims to give you first-hand experience of original laboratory research under direct supervision of principal investigators at UCL. We assess the aspirations of each student individually to identify their preferences for potential types of project that are relevant to the broad scope of the programme. Together with their supervisor, students will then formulate a specific project, design and undertake experiments and interpret /communicate their work in formative oral presentations and an assessed written report and oral examination. This module provides invaluable teaching in scientific methodology, laboratory techniques, critical appraisal of original experimental data and unique insight into the potential of new discoveries. The skills acquired here provide a competitive platform for students who may wish to pursue a research or clinical academic career.

2. Review article based project (Subject to availability): as with the laboratory-based project, we assess individually the interest of each student and guide them in the choice of a topic. On the basis of these discussions, students are assigned to a lab. They are expected to embed in the lab, attending lab meetings and journal clubs, and through a series of discussions with all the lab members to choose a topic related to the lab research. Students then read the literature and prepare a review article on this topic with the help of all members of the lab. This module provides an immersive research-informed lab experience. It is our expectation that review articles will be prepared with the intention of submitting them for publication. Students will communicate their ideas in formative oral presentations. Review articles will be marked and students will also be assessed through an oral examination.

Learning outcomes

First-hand experience of original research under the direct supervision of principal investigators at UCL.
 Experience of formulating a specific project and question, designing and undertaking experiments, interpreting and communicating results.
 Experience of scientific methodology, laboratory techniques, critical appraisal of original experimental data, and the potential of new discoveries.