General provisions

The degree project can be carried out within or outside the university or as a cooperation project. The subject will be determined by the examiner after consultation with the student and supervisor. Before the start of the course, the choice of supervisor and the disposition of the work must be approved by the Faculty of Pharmacy. The student must be registered at the Faculty of Pharmacy.

Entry requirements

For students within the Master's Programme in Drug Discovery and Development, at least 60 credits within the programme is required and passed. Participation in the other courses within the programme is required. Specific requirements are determined by the examiner with regard to the project's focus.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course the student will be able to:

• demonstrate in-depth knowledge of current research and development work within the project's subject area as well as knowledge of what a scientific approach entails
• demonstrate good knowledge of methods within the project's subject area
• critically formulate a research question with the support of the supervisor and independently, and within given time frame, be able to plan, implement and evaluate their project
• seek, critically evaluate and analyze information and integrate and compile it on a scientific level
• present their work orally, in English, and in writing, in good English
• discuss results and conclusions, especially in relation to research in the pharmaceutical field
• demonstrate the ability to identify the need for further research in the subject area

Content

The course consists of an individual research assignment carried out under supervision. Theoretical and methodological knowledge are applied, broadened and deepened within the field of drug discovery and development. The project comprises literature searches, project planning, implementation including practical skills within the specific subject, critical analysis of own results and other scientific literature as well as an oral and a written presentation. A critical analysis of another student's work and presentation is also included in the course. Students performing projects at academic departments or the equivalent are expected to participate in the regular seminar activities of the research group.

Instruction

Individual supervision, literature studies and seminars. Compulsory sections of the course are: the written report, oral presentation of the project performed during a seminar that is officially announced by the department and a popular scientific presentation of the project through poster or oral presentation.

The course is given in English.

Assessment

The research project is to be presented both orally and in writing. The written report must take the form of a scientific report, including a popular science summary.

The requirements for passing the course are, an approved oral presentation including opposition (1.5 credits), an approved written report and participation in other compulsory components.