What is the future of biological research? What are the new horizons for basic scientific enquiry, and how will new biological understanding transform our society in the years to come? This module asks where the current “unknowns” lie in the field of biological science and how we can answer them. The module is in two parts:
(1) “Unsolved Mysteries” where you will develop understanding across a range of topical areas in animal, plant and microbial biology. There will be an emphasis on recently published work addressing the themes of conflict and cooperation at all levels from genes to ecosystems.
(2) ‘Global Challenges’ where you will explore the UN Sustainable Development Goals and ask how biological research can contribute to addressing these. Topics can include
sustainable food production, climate change solutions, consumption and production of biological goods, and equitable access to health advances.
Lecture 48 hours, Workshop 12 hours, Feedback Session 6 hours
1,000 words Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: Article for a Public Audience worth 20%.
1,000 words Short Writing Piece . Assessment Details: Grant Proposal worth 30%.
3,000 words Report. Assessment Details: Report worth 40%.
500 words Reflection. Assessment Details: Online Discussion Boards and Peer-to-Peer Review worth 10%.
Reassessment Method: Like-for-like
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1. Critically appraise selected fields of research and the leading issues in areas across the whole range of biology.
2. Critically evaluate how scientific findings are applied in areas of societal need to address the UN sustainable development goals.
3. Investigate how up-to-date scientific techniques are used in the context of fundamental and applied research
4. Design experiments to answer scientific questions with reference to the costs, timeframes and ethical issues involved
5. Create original outputs that communicate comtemporary scientific developments to professional and/or non-specialist audiences
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