Research training project
Major 40-60 EC (minimum 30 EC except for research specialisation)
Minor 20-40 EC
Description
The research training project trains students to independently conduct scientific research.
Major internships should be performed in one of the research groups of the Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC). For LST students, major internships are also allowed at LUMC, LACDR, IBL, NKI or ErasmusMC.
An optional minor internship can be performed at the LIC or, for LST students, at LUMC, LACDR, IBL, NKI or ErasmusMC. Minor internships at other locations, such as other universities in the Netherlands or abroad and companies, are usually possible but require prior permission from the Board of Examiners.
Admission requirements
MSc students Chemistry or LST. Before the start of the research training project, the student has attended the mandatory safety instructions (Introduction MSc Chemistry/LST in September and February each year) and a fire fighting practical instruction.
Mode of instruction
Practical work, literature search, self-study, training in reporting, discussions and presentations.
Every MSc student is required to attend at least 10 Thesis Talks of fellow MSc students of the various research themes during their MSc period. As proof of attendance, the chairman of the Thesis Talk signs the student’s Thesis Talk attendance list.
Course objectives
At the end of the research training project the student:
can perform a literature study on a topic of research.
recalls information and understands theoretical concepts from textbooks and primary literature that pertains to the topic of research.
can apply theory to predict potential outcomes of experiments and explain results.
can plan research and perform experiments within an appropriate time frame.
has the (experimental/computer) skills to apply standard research procedures.
can solve procedural problems or difficulties.
can design an experiment to test a hypothesis.
can make a relevant original contribution to the project.
can produce reliable, significant results.
can work responsibly.
shows appropriate scientific responsibility and a critical attitude towards own work.
can analyze results and critically evaluate their validity and accuracy.
can critically compare and contrast their own results to related results by others.
can formulate scientifically sound conclusions.
can effectively communicate research progress and results to colleagues, supervisors and experts.
can independently write an accurate report on performed research.
can present a summary of research, results and conclusions to a group of fellow students and external experts in a Thesis Talk.
shows an appropriate work attitude (e.g. being on time and well-prepared, working appropriate hours).
functions appropriately as a member of a research team (e.g. helps others when required and is courteous and respectful towards others).
Assessment method
The final assessment is based on:
observation of practical work, analysis of results, attitude, independence and creativity
evaluation of a written MSc thesis about the practical work
evaluation of an oral presentation (Thesis Talk)
When starting their final graduation procedure, students will have to hand over an attendance list at the Graduate School office showing that they attended at least 10 Thesis Talks.