BL2300 Research Methods in Biology
(BL2300 online module handbook version 94)
image: © Leica Microsystems†
This module will help students develop essential academic and transferable skills, with major emphasis on problem solving. It will provide an introduction to the scientific method, experimental design, understanding and presenting data. Students will learn how to draw graphs and do simple general linear modelling with the code-based statistical software R. Confidence in using R will be built through a combination of online video walk-throughs, independent data handling and online tutorials. Regular mathematics for biologists exercises will allow students to practise manipulating equations, performing laboratory calculations etc. A mini project on experimental design and data analysis, which the students conduct in small groups, will help them apply the principles learned. The module will also cover scientific essay writing, record keeping and good laboratory practice.
*Credits: 15*
Semester: 1†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Before taking this module you must pass BL1101 and pass BL1102*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL2300: Assessment
Coursework = 100%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL2300: Contributing Staff †
BL2300: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL2300 successfully should be able to:
- Use Mendeley to cite and reference sources
- Describe the scientific method
- Appreciate the differences between observational studies and experiments
- Describe advantages and limitations of experiments
- Design and carry out a simple experiment
- Keep a record of an investigation
- Be aware of Good Laboratory Practice
- Write up experimental results in the form of a scientific report
- Write a scientific essay
- Manipulate equations
- Perform laboratory calculations
- Appreciate the use of simple mathematics in Biology
- Handle biological datasets
- Identify different data and variable types
- Plot bar charts and scatter plots with error bars using R
- Conduct simple non-parametric tests in R
- Carry out simple General Linear Modelling using R
BL2300: Acquired Skills †
The practical skills acquired will vary depending on the chosen mini project.
Practical Skills
- Biomolecule isolation/characterisation
- Buffers
- Compound Microscopy
- Handling invertebrate cells
- Kinetic data analysis
- Pipetting
Transferable Skills
- Project report
- Research proposal
- Short essay (1000-2000 words)
- Critically evaluating sources/information
- Finding information on the web
- Finding literature
- Referencing
- Searching databases
- Sourcing figures/tables
- Computer programming
- Ethical considerations
- Lab safety awareness
- Problem-solving questions
- Calculations/equations
- Chi-square test
- Concentrations
- Data analysis
- Data analysis (depending on project)
- Data presentation
- Decimal places
- Descriptive statistics
- Dilutions
- Distinguish different types of data
- Draw a line of best fit
- Exponents
- Generalised Linear Models
- Linear regression
- Logarithms
- Powers of ten
- Produce graphs/figures
- Produce tables
- SI units
- Significant figures
- Use Excel
- Use R or R Studio
- Volumes
- Lab or field notebook
- Designing experiments
- Organising group work
- Working in pairs/small groups
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
