Prerequisite:

Finished bachelors or masters degree in Biology or equivalent program of study.

Content (Syllabus outline):

• Planning and execution of biological tests
• Errors and ethical considerations in experimental design
• Specifics of experimental design in biology
• Statistical analyses
• Writing and reviewing of scientific papers
• Scientific monographies
• Scientific English
• Grant proposals

Readings:

• Ruxton, G., & Colegrave, N. (2010). Experimental design for the life sciences. Oxford University Press. Chapters I – VI.

Objectives and competences:

The course will explain the scientific methodology, and give students the basic training to conduct biological tests, become effective and efficient writers as well as confident reviewers. The course will first explain the principles of planning and executing biological tests including common errors and ethical considerations, conducting statistical analyses, writing and reviewing papers, and writing research grants. The students will then plan their own tests, write papers and grant proposals, and review other students’ work.

Intended learning outcomes:

• Knowledge and understanding of the scientific method in biology.
• Ability to design biological tests.
• Ability to write and review a scientific paper.

Assessment:

Class papers (80 %), presentation of a seminar (20 %).