Description

This module introduces you to all of the processes required for undertaking an independent, but supervised, research project at Masters level in Physics. You will work on a project linked to one of the existing main research groups in the Department. Over the period of the project, you will learn how to design, plan and implement the study, as well as analysing the data and writing up your findings in the style of peer-reviewed academic journal. You will gain research skills and valuable experience from being embedded in a world-leading research group for an extended period of time

Module Aims

Learning to conduct original research is essential for your scientific training, employability potential and future career. In this module, you will gain hands-on experience of conducting cutting-edge physics research under the guidance of professional researchers. This involves conducting an independent research project on a subject of your choice related to one our research groups . You will be responsible for designing, planning and implementing the study, as well as analysing the data and writing it up in the style of peer-reviewed academic journal. As such, this project provides valuable experience of managing an original scientific research project, from its inception through to completion.

The aim of this module is to foster the open-ended problem-solving skills that are characteristic of the practising physicist:

To familiarise you with the existing scientific literature in their study area, and teach you to assimilate this knowledge in a succinct and critical manner in order to prepare a research proposal.

To give you experience in undertaking a substantial research project in a research-led environment, deal with real world problems and put into practice the knowledge you have acquired from the taught elements of the programme. In some cases you will conduct your research project alongside scientists in collaborating governmental and non-governmental organisations. In all cases you will be supervised by a member of academic staff from the University of Exeter. The module will expose you to some of the latest developments in your chosen area of physics research, and ultimately pave the way into a deeper understanding of evidence-based scientific enquiry.

By the end of the module, you will have reviewed and assimilated a substantial portion of the existing literature on your chosen area of physics, and carried out a piece of original research, analysed the results using appropriate methods and learned how to disseminate the results in an appropriate manner. The skills you gain will develop or enhance your employability. Transferable skills to other sectors include: problem solving, time management, collaboration, and writing and presentation skills.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

A student who has passed this module should be able to:

• Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:
  1. Prepare a research proposal based on a critical literature search to discern relevant and reliable information.
  2. Give a scientific presentation which conforms to conventional standards for a presentation;
  3. Identify any specific hazards associated with their particular project and/or its environment, describe the associated procedures for safe working, and explain the rationale for such procedures.
  4. Keep a professional research notebook which is neat, accurate and objective;
  5. Write a substantive scientific report, in the style of a journal publication, containing original results and analysis;
• Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:
  6. Undertake independent background research;
  7. Write scientific reports;
  8. Keep a contemporaneous research notebook that is neat, accurate and objective
  9. Demonstrate a professional level of scientific presentation skills;
  10. Use a range of approaches to solve technical problems;
  11. Undertake independent research, make effective use of computers;
• Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge:
  12. Effectively communicate scientific results;
  13. Make appropriate use of information technology.
  14. Work productively and co-operatively in with others;
  15. Meet deadlines for completion of work and apply appropriate time-management strategies.
  16. Work co-operatively within a professional research environment;

Syllabus Plan

Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, an example of an overall structure is as follows.

1. Overview of organisation
   You will be allocated a supervisor from the Physics and Astronomy Department who will be the primary source of guidance throughout the project. Depending on the project, you may also work closely with researchers from other departments within the University or from a collaborating organisation.
2. Project Work
   In weeks T2:01-07 students will spend an average of two days per week (14 days) on project work.
3. Content
   A list of projects and potential supervisors will be distributed in October, and you will choose a project area by early December. You may also choose to generate your own project, in consultation with an appropriate supervisor. You will then work with your supervisor to design your project.
4. Stages of the project.
   1. You are required to submit a research proposal on your project subject in February, before beginning data collection.
   2. You are required to make a short formal presentation of your proposed project to staff and students shortly after submitting your literature review, before beginning data collection.
   3. You are required to submit your final project report, in the form of a paper to a specific journal, at the end of July.
   Precise timings and deadlines for assessments, along with assessment criteria, are available on ELE.

Learning and Teaching

Learning Activities and Teaching Methods

Assessment

Notes:  Refer to the detailed description of the MPhys assessment criteria in the Physics Handbook.

Resources

The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of information that students are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Instructor(s).

Core text:

• Not applicable

Supplementary texts:

• Not applicable

ELE:

• http://newton.ex.ac.uk/redirects/ELE/phym503

Further Information

Prior Knowledge Requirements

Re-assessment

Re-assessment is not available except when required by referral or deferral.

KIS Data Summary

Miscellaneous