Year
2013
Units
4.5
Contact
9 x 16-hour project works per semester
Prerequisites
^ = may be enrolled concurrently
^ 1 of : FACH4700B, CPES7001A, CPES7001B, CPES7001C, CPES7001D, CPES7001E, CPES7001F
Assumed knowledge
Undergraduate Forensic & Analytical Chemistry.
Course context
The Forensic and Analytical Research Project topics are taught and assessed as a continuum.
Topic description
This topic covers the research project that students undertake as part of their honours year. Students will be expected to design and carry-out an individual research project in an area of their choice under the supervision of an academic staff member. In addition the students will submit a written research proposal, deliver a seminar to the school on their research, and undertake a viva voca examination with their assessment panel. Finally the students will submit a thesis for examination reporting the results of their research.
Educational aims
The aim of this topic is to provide students with an opportunity to plan and execute a research project in an appropriate area. Under the direct supervision of an academic staff member, students will receive in-depth hands-on training in the specific forensic and chemical techniques required for their project. Specifically this topic aims to give students the ability to:

  1. Independently design and carry out experiments using both established protocols and novel approaches
  2. Critically evaluate experimental data
  3. Critically evaluate and interpret the scientific literature in their area of research
  4. Understand the OH&S issues related to their project including the ability to interpret Material Safety Data Sheets and prepare risk assessments
  5. Prepare comprehensive written and oral reports
Expected learning outcomes
At the completion of this topic, students are expected to be able to:

  1. Prepare a novel research proposal with consideration of the relevant scientific literature
  2. Execute an individual research project in a an appropriate area
  3. Apply chemical principles to solve problems
  4. Operate laboratory equipment in a safe and effective manner
  5. Present results in both written and oral form
  6. Prepare risk assessments according to Flinders University Guidelines