Module overview
The module will start with an introductory session on common research techniques used in Biomedical Science.
This will be followed by sessions covering the following topics:
1. Pluripotent stem cells (2 sessions)
2. Neural stem cells
3. Musculoskeletal stem cells (2 sessions)
4. Cancer stem cells
5. Ethics (2 sessions)
The sessions will combine a seminar and general discussion to clarify any points and to frame any questions arising from the lecture that the students find interesting.
Prior to each topic, a relevant primary research publication and supporting documentation that exemplifies research in the subject area will be provided. Students should read the paper prior to attending the session and pay particular attention to the methods section to ensure they are familiar with the basic principles of the techniques and/or any confusing abbreviations used. Methodological queries will be discussed at the session.
For topics 1 and 3, one or more students, depending on class numbers, will be designated to prepare an oral presentation on a selected paper for the following week. The presentation will comprise the paper and background questions arising from the article or the seminar. All students will be expected to join in the discussion of the paper during and after the presentation, although only those students who are presenting will be assessed. Presenting students will be expected to research other articles to introduce concepts in the paper. All students will be expected to research other articles to bring to the general discussion of the selected paper.
For topics 2 and 4, all students will write a critical appraisal of the selected paper stating the hypothesis and summarising the background, results and conclusions with comment on strengths, weaknesses and any new questions arising as a consequence of the paper. There will be no oral presentation for these topics.
For topic 5, all students will participate in a discussion/debate.