Summary of the first year

The main aim of the first year is to allow the student to identify a particular research area, and an appropriate supervisor, for their PhD project, with a view quite possibly to subsequent career development in that area. The curriculum in the first year therefore is multidisciplinary, to introduce a much wider range of science than is possible in undergraduate degree courses.

Besides embarking the students on strong PhD projects selected for considered reasons, we aim to provide transferable skills and training that address many of the functions of the modern researcher. These include: experimental design; how to apply for, and manage, research funds; writing scientific papers; the ethics of research; peer review and project evaluation; IT skills; presentation skills; and the dissemination of research findings.

There are five components of the first year: Basic training modules, Experimental design, Advanced training modules, Lab placements and the Research forum. We feel it is important to allow as much flexibility as possible, to accommodate the different interests, backgrounds and aspirations of the student group. Each type of course has a specific educational and scientific aim.