The principal component of second year of the Biology Master by Coursework programs is a research project conducted under supervision. In addition, students present seminars on their research work and prepare a thesis for examination. The research project runs from early February to early November or mid-July to mid-May. In addition to meeting the entry requirements for admission to the Research year of their Master by Coursework program, students must have the agreement of a member of the School's academic staff to supervise their project, and the agreement of the Head of Biology Teaching & Learning. Academic staff from the Research School of Biology, John Curtin School of Medical Research, CSIRO and Canberra Hospital may be supervisors or co-supervisors. Students should discuss their intention to undertake a research project with potential supervisors and the Master by Coursework coordinator, several months before the proposed starting date.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Carry out a specific set of experiments in biology to address a particular research question
2. Accurately document and analyse laboratory work or fieldwork and research findings
3. Present research findings, both orally and written

Assessment will be based on:

• A written thesis on the research project and results (75%; LO 1, 2, 3)
• Oral presentation of the project and results (20%; LO 1, 2, 3)
• Lab notebook (5%; LO 2)

Full time or as determined by individual research project.

Requires (as a guide) Bachelor of Science or equivalent with a major in the field of biological sciences with relevant experience or academic achievement. Requires second year Molecular Biology or Biochemistry and first year Chemistry. 

As a guide: Bachelor of Science or equivalent with a major in the field of biological sciences with relevant experience or academic achievement.

For students enrolled in the Master of Biotechnology.

Second year Molecular Biology or Biochemistry and first year Chemistry are required.

(a) successful completion of 48 units of postgraduate courses including BIOL8702 and BIOL8703;

(b) the attainment of an average of 2 for the 48 units where HD = 4, D = 3, CR = 2, P = 0;

(c) the attainment of a grade of at least 70 in both of BIOL8703 and BIOL8702;

(d) the recommendation of the Head of the Research School of Biology in light of available resources and Head of Biology Teaching and Learning

To be decided by student and supervisor based on topic chosen.