Introduction to Scientific Research Projects

This book is primarily aimed at undergraduate students undertaking scientific research projects as part of a programme in medicine, nursing and midwifery, subjects allied to health and biological sciences, although it is generally applicable to all project work. It will also be useful to professionals undergoing continuing professional development (CPD) or changing to study at MSc masters level and who need revision on scientific research methods. Since the book uses “example boxes” to explain complex terms in lay language, it should also be accessible to patients and people with a non-clinical background but an interest in the subject.

As this book is an introduction to the area, you may be inspired for, or want, further training and reading. There are many excellent resources within institutes and online, too many to list here, although I would recommend starting with your own institutes’ library, support or academic teams for further information.

1. What is an undergraduate scientific research project?
   1. How is it different to other types of assessment?
   2. How is different to other types of research projects?
   3. What types of research projects are there?
   4. What project will best fit my personality?
   5. What will I be expected to do and learn?
   6. Summary
2. Choosing your project, hopes and expectations
   1. When to chose your project
   2. Hopes
   3. Expectations
   4. Summary
3. Planning your project
   1. Time management
   2. Student supervisor responsibility
   3. Research personnel
   4. Etiquette and survival tips
   5. Staying alive and not being sent to prison (safety and ethics)
   6. Plagiarism and academic offences
   7. Summary
4. Critiquing existing research
   1. Choosing a paper to review
   2. Writing the critique
   3. Critiquing a research grant
5. Experimental design
   1. Planning the experiment
   2. Controls
   3. Performance, feedback, revision
   4. Summary
6. The scientific poster presentation
7. The scientific oral presentation
   1. Constructing the presentation
   2. Navigating the session
   3. Viva Voce
   4. Summary
8. The thesis and scientifi c writing
   1. Preparation
   2. The thesis sections in more detail
   3. Summary
9. Summary